Our History
|
The present Township of Gloucester was one of the original townships that comprised Old Gloucester County. It became the county's first political subdivision in 1685. The boundaries of the county extended from the Delaware River to the Atlantic Ocean until 1683, when it was divided into two townships; Egg Harbor Township and Gloucester Township. Gloucester Township, which took its name from the cathedral town of Gloucester on the banks of the Severn in England, was further subdivided into four smaller townships, and on June 1, 1695 became one of the first New Jersey municipalities to incorporate. In 1884, the township became part of the newly-formed County of Camden.
Did You Know ...
|
| Chew-Powell House - Good Intent Road, Blenheim One of the first settlers of Gloucester County, James Whitall, built this house in 1688. This well-preserved landmark in Blenheim is privately owned and occupied, and is listed in both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. Blenheim was referred as Upton by the very first settlers of the area, but since the strategic location was not needed to defend against the peaceful Indians they encountered, many of the settlers left the area, and it became known to historians as the "Lost Town of Upton." The Chew-Powell-Wallens Burying Ground, adjacent to the house, is believed to be the oldest cemetery in the township, and it not only contains the remains of early settlers, but also those of Revolutionary and Civil Wars soldiers, and Leni Lenape Indians. |
|
| Gabreil Daveis Tavern House 4th Avenue, Glendora. This pre-revolutionary war tavern was built in 1756 and for many years served as an inn for boatmen who transported their products to Philadelphia via nearby Big Timber Creek. It was recently restored and now serves as Gloucester Township's historical centerpiece. This building has also been referred to as The Hillman Hospital House because it was designated a hospital by George Washington during the Revolution. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is open to visitors on Sunday afternoons, from 1 to 4 , from April through December, excepting holidays. |
 |
|
The Marquadant-Johnson Farm House This home
was one of the original Brewer homes built in the area. The rear
of the house was built in the 1700s, but the front was built in 1824.
Elmer Hill, a direct descendant of the Johnson's, researched
the building's background. It is now privately owned and occupied. |
 |
"History of Gloucester Township"
The Gloucester Township Scenic and Preservation Committee has the History of Gloucester Township on sale and you can pick up a copy at the Mayor’s Office in the Township Building, the book makes a fine gift.
The Tavern
A new season of Gabreil Daveis Tavern tours begins on the first Sunday in April each year. The tours are free, donations are gladly accepted, starting at 1 PM and lasting until 4 PM. You will get a short history of the tavern and what life was like in those days when travel was mainly by waterway. Each of our tour guides are volunteer members of the committee who give of their time and talents so that the public may be better informed of the local history. Be supportive and come out for a free Sunday tour starting in April 2008.
Information supplied by
The Historic and Scenic Preservation Committee Township Gloucester
4th Avenue, Glendora, NJ 08029
