George Washington Slept Here, Aaron Burr Married Here: Historic Bergen County Landmark Secures Vital Preservation Grant
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ho-Ho-Kus NJ, A historic treasure in Bergen County is securing its future. The New Jersey Historic Trust has announced that The Hermitage, a National Historic Landmark nestled in Ho-Ho-Kus, has been awarded a prestigious 2025 Preserve New Jersey Historic Preservation grant.
The funding arrives at a critical time, paving the way for a comprehensive Preservation Plan and advanced design blueprints to protect and restore one of the most culturally significant properties in the United States.
From Revolutionary War Headquarters to an Iconic Romantic Union
Long before it became a staple of North Jersey history, The Hermitage was at the epicenter of early American foundation. Originally constructed in the 18th century, the estate boasts deep roots in the Revolutionary War:
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The Washington Connection: Following the grueling Battle of Monmouth, George Washington and his high-ranking military staff famously visited and utilized the estate.
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The Aaron Burr Marriage: In 1782, the property served as the historic backdrop for the wedding of future Vice President Aaron Burr to Theodosia Prevost, securing its place in American political lore.
Architectural Masterpiece: From Estate to “Waldwic Cottage”
In 1807, the property transitioned into a new era when it was purchased by Dr. Elijah Rosencrantz. Decades later, in 1847, the family commissioned celebrated architect William H. Ranlett to completely redesign the home.
Ranlett transformed the eighteenth-century home into a breathtaking Gothic Revival masterpiece, structurally known as Waldwic Cottage.
Why The Hermitage Holds National Significance
The site isn’t just locally important—it is a national architectural rarity.
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A Singular Survivor: The Hermitage stands as the only known remaining Gothic Revival structure that architectural historians can definitively attribute to William H. Ranlett.
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National Recognition: Due to its immense structural integrity and historical value, it was officially designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970.
Securing the Future: The 2025 Preservation Initiative
The property was generously bequeathed to the State of New Jersey in 1971. Today, it operates as a vibrant historic house museum, meticulously managed by the local non-profit organization, the Friends of the Hermitage.
The newly announced 2025 grant funding will explicitly target the long-term survival of the site. It provides the financial backing needed for engineers and historic preservationists to compile crucial site documentation, stopping structural deterioration and ensuring that future generations of New Jersey residents can walk the same halls as the nation’s founding figures.
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You know what would be cool is the notify the president he should make an appearance at this location. And maybe he could allocate some money for the site, because it is important.
Lived in HHK for almost 40 yrs and in Bergen Cty for 50+. Only saw the inside of the Hermitage 1x maybe 2x in 50+ yrs. On the grounds a couple more, in 50+.
Do something useful with the property!
God forbid there’s a proposal to build condos!
HHK is the best place to live, almost anywhere. So sorry we moved.