In the late 18th century, Irish immigrant brothers James and Adam Ramsay acquired nearly 50 acres of land in NJ. They found the location near the active Delaware river perfect for establishing a home, business, and new lives. They accomplished all three goals in what would become known as Ramsaysburg and, later, the James Ramsey Farmstead.
In particular, their new property was located in Knowlton Township (what we call Warren County today). At the time, James was a notable politician in the area, eventually becoming a County Freeholder. He also spent time as a member of the Knowlton Township Committee.
More from Best of NJ
The Dawn of Ramsaysburg
In 1801, James took sole ownership of the property. At this point, it became known as “Ramsaysburg,” and Ramsay descendants possessed the property for nearly a century. During much of that that time, Ramsaysburg grew. In 1827, a post office was established on the land. During the next few years, a tavern, general store, Episcopal Church, and several homes were constructed on the property. Given its location, the community was a prime stop for those traveling via either road or the river.
By the early 1850s, a railroad was constructed nearby, making other travel much less frequent. During this time, Ramsaysburg began operating a lumberyard and had its own sawmill and blacksmith shop. It also had an active hotel around 1852, but the property was mostly the Ramsay family and extended relatives. Then, in 1885, the Ramsay family sold part of the property, leading to construction of a hotel resort in 1901; on the portion of land making up Ramsaysburg. The Spring Brook Farm Hotel was next acquired by Myron Gilbert, who owned and operated it for many years.
By 1950, the Ramsay family lost the rest of their property in a court-ordered sale. Gilbert, however, continued to possess her portion of the estate for several decades. She sold the hotel in 1987 to new owners who planned to turn it into a premier bed and breakfast. But this never came to fruition, as the historic hotel was ruined by a fire within the decade.
Building the James Ramsey Farmstead
In 1997, the Knowlton Township Historic Commission (KTHC) formed in order to retain the historic character of the township. In fact, the KTHC has helped preserve the Ramsay family property and its remaining buildings. They also helped place the James Ramsay Farmstead on the New Jersey and National Register of Historic Places in 2001. During this time, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres program bought the property.
The KTHC began leasing the property in 2004. They are also the driving force behind the current restoration of the now-12 acres of Ramsaysburg. Some of the original buildings still standing include the tavern, barn, cottage, smokehouse, and shed; all built between 1800 and 1870. The James Ramsay Farmstead now stands as a testament to the resiliency, determination, and attainability of the American Dream.
Click Here For More Jersey Through History Stories.
All Photos: © Patrick Lombardi / Best of NJ
