Status: Endangered
County: Camden County
Additional Features:
The Robert Marshall House is a two-story wood-framed structure in Gloucester Township, Camden County that was constructed in two distinct sections over the years — the original farmhouse section dates to c. 1720, and a significant addition was constructed c. 1810. The Marshall House is also known historically as the Wainwright-Marshall House, and locally as the Moffa Farm, reflecting the mid-20th Century owners who operated a restaurant called “Moffa’s Farm” from the property for many years. The Marshall House was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008 for its local significance as a work of vernacular architecture, containing distinctive examples of Federal period interior features that are unmatched by any other known farmhouses of the period in the surrounding area, including exceptionally fine Federal period punch-and-gouge woodwork. The home is currently facing the double threats of development pressure and demolition by neglect, with no plans by the Township to undertake structural repairs or a vision for the property’s future. While the Town Council has been considering designating the Marshall property as a Redevelopment Zone, the Planning Board voted last fall to recommend to the Council to preserve the home and consider a recent land trust offer to acquire the property for conservation. The Gloucester Township Historic and Scenic Preservation Committee has proposed that the Robert Marshall House property serve as an ecological, recreational and historic resource for residents and visitors, with the building being used for educational and recreational purposes. Preservation New Jersey agrees that the property offers a unique opportunity as a destination along an extensive trail system or greenway with walking, hiking and biking trails, as well as kayaking options, that connects Gloucester and Camden Counties.
CONTACT:
Sharon Mickle
President, Gloucester Township Historic and Scenic Preservation Committee
President, The Gloucester Township Preservation Fund
sharonlmickle@gmail.com
856-534-9159