A home in the center of Hunterdon County has a history the predates the American Revolution. Now, in modern times, it earns a spot in our Jersey Through History series. Despite its historic significance, the Solitude House in High Bridge, NJ quietly remains a New Jersey landmark.
The Solitude House dates back to the beginning of the 18th century. The Germanic-style stone home was built on a huge parcel of land more than 10 thousand acres in size. In fact, the entire property encompassed what we today know as the towns of Bethlehem, Clinton, High Bridge, and Lebanon. At the time, the land was also shared with Union Iron Works; the forge responsible for casting cannonballs for the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
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Peace and Solitude
In the second half of the 18th century, Irish immigrant and former schoolteacher Robert Taylor became superintendent of the ironworks; thus residing in the Solitude House. Then, during the Revolution, George Washington’s Board of War requested Taylor take a couple prisoners; two loyalists, Royal Governor of Pennsylvania John Penn and his attorney general Benjamin Chew. The Solitude House served as a form of house arrest, keeping the men in the barracks for seven months. However, oddly enough, the men could freely roam up to six miles of the grounds. It was during this time the Solitude House received its immortal name.
Five generations of the Taylor family lived in the house over nearly two centuries. But through the latter years, the ironworks slowly declined. As a result, the property and Solitude House changed ownership several times over the next few decades. For instance, the Central Railroad of New Jersey took ownership in the mid-19th century; revitalizing business in the area for a time. However, the grounds officially and completely ceased operations in 1970. Soon after, the Solitude House was planned to be razed, but High Bridge took over the property in 2000. Two years later, the Union Forge Heritage Association opened the Solitude House Museum, operating it for the next decade.
The Solitude House Today
The Solitude House is currently undergoing renovations, but is occasionally open to the public. Throughout the year, the home hosts psychic tours, murder mysteries, and even open mics. These events and tours help to pay for the restoration of this historic home. Some events, including regular open houses, are free and open to all ages. Upcoming events are available on the High Bridge History Facebook page.
Solitude House sits next to Lake Solitude off Route 639. The man-made lake, constructed in 1858, served as the power source for a nearby foundry. It was originally constructed with a crib dam at its southernmost end. But after 50 years, they replaced this with a buttress dam. This is significant because it is the last-remaining buttress dam in New Jersey. In fact, it is nationally recognized as a historic structure. Lake Solitude is a gorgeous spot to visit, relax in the sun, and watch the falls. Just remember to be respectful of the property and wildlife.
With its rich historic significance and serene environment, the Solitude House is a perfect place to Jersey Through History.
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All Photos: © Patrick Lombardi / Best of NJ
