Proprietary House on Kearny Ave in Perth Amboy New Jersey is a Revolutionary War site that is temporarily closed through August 2025 as it is undergoing capital improvements as part of the preparations for the nationwide America 250 celebrations in 2026. The closure aims to revitalize and modernize the site, making it more accessible and ready for increased visitation. Money is being invested in preparation for July 4, 2026 and events leading up, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, known as the US Semiquincentennial, also called the Bisesquicentennial, the Sestercentennial, America250 or the Quarter Millennium.
Funding was through Governor Murphy’s $25 million investment in New Jersey’s Revolutionary War historic sites ahead of America’s 250th. Construction management is provided through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Office of Resource Development. Proprietary House is a popular historic destination in Perth Amboy with tours, a museum, gift shop and tea room.
Revolutionary War communities throughout the country are preparing for this historic celebration, with visitors expected to go on pilgrimages to sites and explore and celebrate Americas history. Many grants will be associated with celebrating America 250. Many communities are actively preparing to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, with various organizations and individuals participating in the planning and coordination of events. The focus is on remembering and celebrating American history, culture, and the founding of the nation.
For Perth Amboy, celebration of local history will be a big attraction, as it is home to many Revolutionary War sites. The historic sites associated with the Revolutionary War include Proprietary House the last-standing mansion of a royal governor in the original 13 colonies. It was the residence of William Franklin, New Jersey’s last royal governor, who was arrested there in 1776. Also, St Peter’s Church and cemetery , dating back to the colonial era. Also, the Bluff, a significant location during the Revolutionary War. And Raritan Bay. Other significant historic sites include Perth Amboy City Hall, the oldest public building in continuous use in the United States, with a history that includes the site of the first signing of the Bill of Rights in 1790.
In preparing for America250 some projects include cemetery preparations, participation in the American 250 national initiative, community involvement with public schools, arts events/projects, local groups and organizations- all planning events and activities to join in the celebration.
It will be exciting to find out what Staten Island Conference House Park has planned, directly across the waterfront from Perth Amboy.
