Dutch Neck
Close-up of 1875 Everts & Stuart map
View down Village Road East in 2019
Overview
Stroll down Village Roads East and West or South Mill Road and it is impossible not to note the uniquely vibrant historical character of Dutch Neck. Reputedly settled in 1737 - concurrent to Penns Neck - by two Dutch families - the Bergens and the Vorhees - the hamlet is home to dozens of structures that evoke the story of the municipality's evolution from quiet agrarian settlement to suburban commuter town.¹ The village's geographic centrality in the township, coupled with the preservation of such a quantity of sites, cements Dutch Neck's status as West Windsor's best-preserved hamlet.
Soon after the Bergens and Vorhees arrived in the "neck" (a Dutch moniker for a tract of land), others began to emigrate to the area, attracted by rich farmland.² These include families whose surnames appear throughout the township's history: Jewell, Clark, Everett, Fisher, Mount, Post, Perrine, Rogers, Scudder, Tindall, Van Dyke, and Van Nest.³ Many residents of these families still call West Windsor home and have been active in shaping the municipality's history.
The earliest settlers of villages often met in taverns, private homes, or houses of worship to conduct public business.⁴ Dutch Neck is no exception: some of the first township minutes in 1801 (4 years after West Windsor's incorporation) make mention of the Neck Meeting House - predecessor of the current Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church that dominates town center.⁵ This practice of meeting in informal settings continued until 1891, when the meetings moved to what is now known as Old Town Hall in Dutch Neck, due to its geographically central location within West Windsor.⁶
Stroll down Village Roads East and West or South Mill Road and it is impossible not to note the uniquely vibrant historical character of Dutch Neck. Reputedly settled in 1737 - concurrent to Penns Neck - by two Dutch families - the Bergens and the Vorhees - the hamlet is home to dozens of structures that evoke the story of the municipality's evolution from quiet agrarian settlement to suburban commuter town.¹ The village's geographic centrality in the township, coupled with the preservation of such a quantity of sites, cements Dutch Neck's status as West Windsor's best-preserved hamlet.
Soon after the Bergens and Vorhees arrived in the "neck" (a Dutch moniker for a tract of land), others began to emigrate to the area, attracted by rich farmland.² These include families whose surnames appear throughout the township's history: Jewell, Clark, Everett, Fisher, Mount, Post, Perrine, Rogers, Scudder, Tindall, Van Dyke, and Van Nest.³ Many residents of these families still call West Windsor home and have been active in shaping the municipality's history.
The earliest settlers of villages often met in taverns, private homes, or houses of worship to conduct public business.⁴ Dutch Neck is no exception: some of the first township minutes in 1801 (4 years after West Windsor's incorporation) make mention of the Neck Meeting House - predecessor of the current Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church that dominates town center.⁵ This practice of meeting in informal settings continued until 1891, when the meetings moved to what is now known as Old Town Hall in Dutch Neck, due to its geographically central location within West Windsor.⁶
Former general store
Boyd's Trenton Directory (1874) - makes mention of a number of commercial establishments in the town. These include a tavern, general store (operated by C. E. Pullen and J. D. Savage at different times), blacksmith (T. F. Willaimson), mail contractor (Jonathan Smith), hotel (Jackson Smith), carpenter (Samuel Ayres), cobbler (Charles V. Smith), and wheelwright (Jackson Smith).⁷ Many of the buildings that use to house these businesses still stand. All have long since been converted into private residences.⁸
A number of organizations have also called Dutch Neck Home. The earliest, the West Windsor Mutual Fire Insurance Association, was organized in 1857.⁹ The West Windsor Pursuing and Detecting Society was formed shortly afterwards in 1882.¹⁰ A product of its time, it was responsible for recovering stolen horses, wagons, automobiles, and even poultry!¹¹ One of New Jersey's first YMCA chapters also called Dutch Neck its home; an 1882 program shows monthly services hosted in the Presbyterian Church.¹²
In 1882, Hiram A. Cook and Son set up shop in a barn behind 213 Village Road East, dealing in farm implements, hardware, and plumbing.¹³ Also established were L. C. Bowers and Sons, builders, a garage run by Harry D. Applegate, and H. H. Mather's painting business.¹⁴
A number of organizations have also called Dutch Neck Home. The earliest, the West Windsor Mutual Fire Insurance Association, was organized in 1857.⁹ The West Windsor Pursuing and Detecting Society was formed shortly afterwards in 1882.¹⁰ A product of its time, it was responsible for recovering stolen horses, wagons, automobiles, and even poultry!¹¹ One of New Jersey's first YMCA chapters also called Dutch Neck its home; an 1882 program shows monthly services hosted in the Presbyterian Church.¹²
In 1882, Hiram A. Cook and Son set up shop in a barn behind 213 Village Road East, dealing in farm implements, hardware, and plumbing.¹³ Also established were L. C. Bowers and Sons, builders, a garage run by Harry D. Applegate, and H. H. Mather's painting business.¹⁴
Start/end of the West Windsor Historic Bike Trail
In the first half of the twentieth century, houses began to fill in farmland within the village. Dutch Neck Elementary School was built simultaneously, representing a transformation in the township's focus on education.¹⁵ A series of post-WWII developments further erased agrarian land. Despite this, the village's historic identity continues to evince itself through what remains. Farmland - still in use by the township (albeit no longer for potato-growing) - bookends the east and west ends of the hamlet. A quick glance behind houses shows the existence of a number of well-established barns. Dutch Neck's town center - at the crossroads of South Mill Road and Village Roads East and West - is particularly dominated by a number of centuries-old structures, including a former post office, general store, church, tavern, court house/library, schoolhouse, and numerous residences.¹⁶ In addition, prompted by the village's historical integrity and centralized location within the township, the West Windsor Historic Bike Trail was created as a permanent, self-guided bike tour that explores the history of over one hundred of the township's most historic sites and calls Dutch Neck home.¹⁷
It is this preservation that so strongly sets Dutch Neck apart from much of West Windsor's other historic clusters, and makes it such a fascinating case study of life in the township throughout the centuries.
It is this preservation that so strongly sets Dutch Neck apart from much of West Windsor's other historic clusters, and makes it such a fascinating case study of life in the township throughout the centuries.
542 Village Road West: Updike House (c. 1750-1764)
This residence, lying at the outskirts of Dutch Neck, is one of West Windsor's oldest buildings and represents many centuries of architecture and expansion.¹⁸ This clapboard edifice consists of a 2.5 story main block and flush 2-story ell, which likely incorporates an earlier house. Two porches hint at multi-family occupancy at some point during its history, which was not uncommon. In fact, the house at the Schenck Farmstead was occupied by multiple families at a time, as well!¹⁹
The house was moved closer to the road in 1978, when the farm was subdivided for housing.²⁰ Much of the original property is now part of the "Le Parc II" development.²¹
This residence, lying at the outskirts of Dutch Neck, is one of West Windsor's oldest buildings and represents many centuries of architecture and expansion.¹⁸ This clapboard edifice consists of a 2.5 story main block and flush 2-story ell, which likely incorporates an earlier house. Two porches hint at multi-family occupancy at some point during its history, which was not uncommon. In fact, the house at the Schenck Farmstead was occupied by multiple families at a time, as well!¹⁹
The house was moved closer to the road in 1978, when the farm was subdivided for housing.²⁰ Much of the original property is now part of the "Le Parc II" development.²¹
South Mill Road & Village Road West: Dutch Neck Cemetery (mid-late 1700s)
This cemetery is one of Dutch Neck's oldest historic sites. Containing hundreds of gravestones, it bears witness to numerous residents from a variety of families of varying levels of wealth and political prominence throughout 4 centuries. Although the Neck Meeting House (later the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church) was constructed in 1797, gravestones in this cemetery date to well before this year - some as early as 1771 (although this may have been moved from the Pompey-Updike grave where Dutch Neck Elementary School now stands - more on that below).²²
More so than any structure in the township, this cemetery, like its counterparts in Penns Neck, reveals the longtime occupancy of the township by a number of prominent families. Names still familiar to current residents include the Grovers, Schencks, Bergens, Hawks, Perrines, Applegets, Tindalls, Everetts, and Updikes.²³ A number of graves were moved during the expansion of the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church in the mid-late 1800s.²⁴
In 1939, "Old Princeton's Neighbors" noted a sad story: "During the 1860's, Zachariah Davis had his blacksmith shop on part of the cemetery lot and also made coffins when necessary. The tradition is that he was kept unusually busy when his own four children died of diphtheria within a week." ²⁵
This cemetery is one of Dutch Neck's oldest historic sites. Containing hundreds of gravestones, it bears witness to numerous residents from a variety of families of varying levels of wealth and political prominence throughout 4 centuries. Although the Neck Meeting House (later the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church) was constructed in 1797, gravestones in this cemetery date to well before this year - some as early as 1771 (although this may have been moved from the Pompey-Updike grave where Dutch Neck Elementary School now stands - more on that below).²²
More so than any structure in the township, this cemetery, like its counterparts in Penns Neck, reveals the longtime occupancy of the township by a number of prominent families. Names still familiar to current residents include the Grovers, Schencks, Bergens, Hawks, Perrines, Applegets, Tindalls, Everetts, and Updikes.²³ A number of graves were moved during the expansion of the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church in the mid-late 1800s.²⁴
In 1939, "Old Princeton's Neighbors" noted a sad story: "During the 1860's, Zachariah Davis had his blacksmith shop on part of the cemetery lot and also made coffins when necessary. The tradition is that he was kept unusually busy when his own four children died of diphtheria within a week." ²⁵
214 South Mill Road: Widow Bergen's Tavern
(mid-1700s)
This 2.5 story side-hall house set extremely close to the road is one of West Windsor's most longstanding and historically significant buildings. Various records suggest that it was constructed prior to the American Revolution.²⁶ For well over a century, until 1883, this edifice served as both a public house and an inn, and is likely the first known business in Dutch Neck.²⁷
If one desires to pinpoint a site that marks the first township meeting of West Windsor Township, this is it. On April 8, 1797 - just two months after the town was incorporated on February 9 of that year - the tavern hosted the first ever township meeting. At the time it was owned by Jacob Bergen, who would continue to host township meetings at his abode well into the 1800s.²⁸
An 1805 reference in the Trenton True American makes mention of "Major Morford's Batallion" meeting on October 10th.²⁹ This same reference also mentions a "Widow Bergen," suggesting Jacob's death prior to this date and cementing the association of the building with the Bergens.³⁰ This association is further cemented
Originally, the tavern was located across the road from the Neck Meeting House (Later the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church), next to the chapel.³¹ It was doubtless this proximity, as well as a rising temperance movement, that prompted churchgoers to host repeated "temperance meetings" in a grove near the church, in order to quell what they saw as a den of vice.³² In 1883, this group prevailed; the tavern was consequently relocated to its current location, converted into a private residence, and sold to the Updike Family, and later the Cook Family.³³ In the house's deed was a clause that it may never again operate as a tavern, and so it has remained a residence.³⁴
(mid-1700s)
This 2.5 story side-hall house set extremely close to the road is one of West Windsor's most longstanding and historically significant buildings. Various records suggest that it was constructed prior to the American Revolution.²⁶ For well over a century, until 1883, this edifice served as both a public house and an inn, and is likely the first known business in Dutch Neck.²⁷
If one desires to pinpoint a site that marks the first township meeting of West Windsor Township, this is it. On April 8, 1797 - just two months after the town was incorporated on February 9 of that year - the tavern hosted the first ever township meeting. At the time it was owned by Jacob Bergen, who would continue to host township meetings at his abode well into the 1800s.²⁸
An 1805 reference in the Trenton True American makes mention of "Major Morford's Batallion" meeting on October 10th.²⁹ This same reference also mentions a "Widow Bergen," suggesting Jacob's death prior to this date and cementing the association of the building with the Bergens.³⁰ This association is further cemented
Originally, the tavern was located across the road from the Neck Meeting House (Later the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church), next to the chapel.³¹ It was doubtless this proximity, as well as a rising temperance movement, that prompted churchgoers to host repeated "temperance meetings" in a grove near the church, in order to quell what they saw as a den of vice.³² In 1883, this group prevailed; the tavern was consequently relocated to its current location, converted into a private residence, and sold to the Updike Family, and later the Cook Family.³³ In the house's deed was a clause that it may never again operate as a tavern, and so it has remained a residence.³⁴
416 Village Road East (18th century)
This 2-story house set close to the road features a Colonial Revival porch with Victorian era roof brackets. According to a previous owner, a structure existed on this site in the 1750s.³⁵ Between 1765 and 1770, the structure was relocated and the roof raised to accommodate a bedroom upstairs.³⁶ A dining room was added in the mid-late 1800s, and a kitchen built in the 1920s.³⁷
Both the 1849 J. W. Otley & J. Keily and the 1875 Everts & Stuart maps of West Windsor show a building in this location.³⁸
This 2-story house set close to the road features a Colonial Revival porch with Victorian era roof brackets. According to a previous owner, a structure existed on this site in the 1750s.³⁵ Between 1765 and 1770, the structure was relocated and the roof raised to accommodate a bedroom upstairs.³⁶ A dining room was added in the mid-late 1800s, and a kitchen built in the 1920s.³⁷
Both the 1849 J. W. Otley & J. Keily and the 1875 Everts & Stuart maps of West Windsor show a building in this location.³⁸
408 Village Road East: Side Hall Plan House (c. 1800)
Set back from the road behind a stone retaining wall is this 3-bay, 2-story residence featuring a paired Victorian roof brackets. Like many of the houses of Dutch Neck, it is significantly deeper than its narrow front facade lets on. It features two major entrances: one facing the road and It is one of the best-preserved buildings of the first half of the 19th century.³⁹
Set back from the road behind a stone retaining wall is this 3-bay, 2-story residence featuring a paired Victorian roof brackets. Like many of the houses of Dutch Neck, it is significantly deeper than its narrow front facade lets on. It features two major entrances: one facing the road and It is one of the best-preserved buildings of the first half of the 19th century.³⁹
154 South Mill Road: Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church (1816)
Undoubtedly the most prominent landmark of Dutch Neck, the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church is also one of the hamlet's older structures. Like the Penns Neck Baptist Church, this edifice, and all the effort that was put into its construction and expansion, are emblematic of the importance of religion to the town's earliest settlers.
In 1797, a log structure, known as the "Neck Meeting House" was constructed on the site of the current church to serve members of the local congregation, a branch of the Cranbury Church.⁴⁰ This building was both a house of worship and meetings, hosting municipal gatherings during the years following its construction. However, religious services were infrequent and no formal congregation would be formed for another 19 years.⁴¹
Undoubtedly the most prominent landmark of Dutch Neck, the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church is also one of the hamlet's older structures. Like the Penns Neck Baptist Church, this edifice, and all the effort that was put into its construction and expansion, are emblematic of the importance of religion to the town's earliest settlers.
In 1797, a log structure, known as the "Neck Meeting House" was constructed on the site of the current church to serve members of the local congregation, a branch of the Cranbury Church.⁴⁰ This building was both a house of worship and meetings, hosting municipal gatherings during the years following its construction. However, religious services were infrequent and no formal congregation would be formed for another 19 years.⁴¹
Dutch Neck Presbyterian in the 1930s. Photo courtesy of Norman Hulick
In 1816, residents of the village, used to travelling to both Kingston and Cranbury to attend regular services, successfully submitted an application to organize the Presbyterian Congregation of Dutch Neck.⁴² Its first pastor, the Reverend David Comfort, served from 1816-1824.⁴³ During his first year of leadership, the Neck Meeting House was razed and the central part of the current structure was constructed.⁴⁴ The congregation's original membership totaled 25 residents, among whom were a number of elders: Willaim Post, John R. Covenhoven, Peter Hooper, and Levi Updike.⁴⁵
Various expansions and renovations to the church occurred frequently over seven decades. Additions to the front and rear of the church covered over some graves. Around 1885, the structure that stands today was completed.⁴⁶ In 1965, the large, 2-story cinder-block building to the north was constructed as a Christian education building to supplement the church's accommodations.⁴⁷
Throughout its existence, the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church has witnessed a variety of clergy members, but none as memorable as the Reverend Amzi L. Armstrong. Armstrong was a pastor who served the church for over four decades, from 1857-1900.⁴⁸ However, for all his years of service, his life was unfortunately overshadowed by the grim nature of his death.
Various expansions and renovations to the church occurred frequently over seven decades. Additions to the front and rear of the church covered over some graves. Around 1885, the structure that stands today was completed.⁴⁶ In 1965, the large, 2-story cinder-block building to the north was constructed as a Christian education building to supplement the church's accommodations.⁴⁷
Throughout its existence, the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church has witnessed a variety of clergy members, but none as memorable as the Reverend Amzi L. Armstrong. Armstrong was a pastor who served the church for over four decades, from 1857-1900.⁴⁸ However, for all his years of service, his life was unfortunately overshadowed by the grim nature of his death.
The Reverend Amzi L. Armstrong
On Thanksgiving evening of 1910, gunshots pierced the silence of Dutch Neck. The next morning, the Reverend and his wife, Anne Rue, were found dead in their living room by Rachel Sears, their housekeeper.⁴⁹ Rachel sent her son, Jack (30 at the time), to get help from a neighbor, George Dennison, who owned a telephone.⁵⁰ Police officers, a coroner, and a prosecutor promptly arrived and commenced an investigation.
The immediate suspect was Jack, a 30-year-old mixed-race adopted son of the Armstrongs. He and Rachel had lived with the Armstrongs since Jack was a baby, after being abandoned by his father when Rachel was found to be pregnant.⁵¹ The Armstrongs took them into their home, but Jack - half black (his mother's side) and half white (his father's side) grew to resent his second-class position in the household, let alone in a society that mistreated minorities.⁵²
Jack claimed that he was in New Brunswick with a friend, Rudolph Nordhaus, at the time of the murder - an alibi that was not corroborated when Nordhaus stated that Jack had failed to show up for their scheduled appointment.⁵³ Furthermore, Jack had borrowed a shotgun which was similar to that used in the Armstrong murder.⁵⁴
Further questioning by the police resulted in a confession, revealing Jack's motives. First, Sears had believed that his chicken-raising business, which had failed several times before, would be a success this time, and wanted to go to New Brunswick to meet Nordhaus. However, Armstrong wanted him to travel to a local mill instead.⁵⁵ Sears and Armstrong subsequently fought and, after Armstrong flung racial slurs at his adoptive son, Sears shot Armstrong. When Mrs. Armstrong ran in to investigate, flinging a vase at Sears, he shot her as well.⁵⁶
Jack Sears was tried and found guilty of murder shortly afterwards.⁵⁷ He was sentenced to death by electrocution via Trenton State Prison’s newly-built electric chair, and died on March 16, 1911.⁵⁸ This was the first execution of its kind in Mercer County. His mother, suffering from heart failure, had died nearly a month before, on February 19.⁵⁹ The racially-tinged crime, trial, punishment, and funeral were highly-publicized throughout the region (warning: offensive racial language).
The immediate suspect was Jack, a 30-year-old mixed-race adopted son of the Armstrongs. He and Rachel had lived with the Armstrongs since Jack was a baby, after being abandoned by his father when Rachel was found to be pregnant.⁵¹ The Armstrongs took them into their home, but Jack - half black (his mother's side) and half white (his father's side) grew to resent his second-class position in the household, let alone in a society that mistreated minorities.⁵²
Jack claimed that he was in New Brunswick with a friend, Rudolph Nordhaus, at the time of the murder - an alibi that was not corroborated when Nordhaus stated that Jack had failed to show up for their scheduled appointment.⁵³ Furthermore, Jack had borrowed a shotgun which was similar to that used in the Armstrong murder.⁵⁴
Further questioning by the police resulted in a confession, revealing Jack's motives. First, Sears had believed that his chicken-raising business, which had failed several times before, would be a success this time, and wanted to go to New Brunswick to meet Nordhaus. However, Armstrong wanted him to travel to a local mill instead.⁵⁵ Sears and Armstrong subsequently fought and, after Armstrong flung racial slurs at his adoptive son, Sears shot Armstrong. When Mrs. Armstrong ran in to investigate, flinging a vase at Sears, he shot her as well.⁵⁶
Jack Sears was tried and found guilty of murder shortly afterwards.⁵⁷ He was sentenced to death by electrocution via Trenton State Prison’s newly-built electric chair, and died on March 16, 1911.⁵⁸ This was the first execution of its kind in Mercer County. His mother, suffering from heart failure, had died nearly a month before, on February 19.⁵⁹ The racially-tinged crime, trial, punishment, and funeral were highly-publicized throughout the region (warning: offensive racial language).
420 Village Road East: Dutch Neck General Store
(pre-1850)
This rectangular building at the intersection of South Mill Road and Village Road East was Dutch Neck’s general store and post office at one time.⁶⁰ The store was on the lower level; the owners slept on the second floor. The building's central location in Dutch Neck undoubtedly made for a good location to set up shop. Later, it was turned into a pizza parlor, and then a private residence.⁶¹ The building has undergone various alterations since its construction; the canopy above the front porch, as well as much of the rear of the building, no longer exist.⁶²
(pre-1850)
This rectangular building at the intersection of South Mill Road and Village Road East was Dutch Neck’s general store and post office at one time.⁶⁰ The store was on the lower level; the owners slept on the second floor. The building's central location in Dutch Neck undoubtedly made for a good location to set up shop. Later, it was turned into a pizza parlor, and then a private residence.⁶¹ The building has undergone various alterations since its construction; the canopy above the front porch, as well as much of the rear of the building, no longer exist.⁶²
Dutch Neck General Store in 1907
In 1900, a local newspaper reported on a failed robbery of the post office: "A gang of robbers made a daring attempt to rob the post office at Dutch Neck about 3 o'clock Wednesday (Feb. 14) morning. The office is in connection with a general country store, over which is a residence. Postmaster Frank R. Adams (operator for 43 years) was awakened by the noise made in blowing open the safe. Adams was sleeping in the room above the office, and, hearing men talking downstairs, fired four shots in the dark through a hole in the floor. The robbers immediately started on a run towards Princeton Junction. The farms in the vicinity quickly organized a posse. But they could find no trance of the gang. The flight of the robbers was so hurried that they failed to take away any valuables." ⁶³
Although this building only appears as far back as 1900 in the township's tax records, a myriad of references to this building standing in the 1800s, as well as the 1849 and 1875 maps of West Windsor, suggest that the building was erected much earlier - likely before 1850.⁶⁴
Although this building only appears as far back as 1900 in the township's tax records, a myriad of references to this building standing in the 1800s, as well as the 1849 and 1875 maps of West Windsor, suggest that the building was erected much earlier - likely before 1850.⁶⁴
Top: Pre-1917. Bottom: 2018
516 Village Road West: Dutch Neck Schoolhouse
(1850-1875)
Records show that a log cabin was used as the first schoolhouse in Dutch Neck at least as far back as 1828.⁶⁵ Located at the rear of the cemetery of the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church, it burned down in 1850.⁶⁶ A reference in the Princeton Whig on January 8, 1850, notes: "School house burned at Dutch Neck! On Friday last the school house was burned with all contents. It is supposed to have been the work of an incendiary." ⁶⁷
Now a private residence, and dramatically altered from its original form (see adjacent image), the edifice at 516 Village Road West was constructed some time between the fire and 1875 to replace the older school.⁶⁸ When the more accommodating Dutch Neck Elementary School was built in 1917, the schoolhouse was relocated to the present property and converted into a private residence in the same year.⁶⁹
Although tax records date back only as far as 1890, this building appears on the 1875 map.⁷⁰ Perhaps 1890 is the year that the schoolhouse was converted from a one-room institution to a two-room school.
(1850-1875)
Records show that a log cabin was used as the first schoolhouse in Dutch Neck at least as far back as 1828.⁶⁵ Located at the rear of the cemetery of the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church, it burned down in 1850.⁶⁶ A reference in the Princeton Whig on January 8, 1850, notes: "School house burned at Dutch Neck! On Friday last the school house was burned with all contents. It is supposed to have been the work of an incendiary." ⁶⁷
Now a private residence, and dramatically altered from its original form (see adjacent image), the edifice at 516 Village Road West was constructed some time between the fire and 1875 to replace the older school.⁶⁸ When the more accommodating Dutch Neck Elementary School was built in 1917, the schoolhouse was relocated to the present property and converted into a private residence in the same year.⁶⁹
Although tax records date back only as far as 1890, this building appears on the 1875 map.⁷⁰ Perhaps 1890 is the year that the schoolhouse was converted from a one-room institution to a two-room school.
138 South Mill Road: Presbyterian Parsonage - AKA "The Manse" (c. 1850)
This Colonial Revival house, according to records, was acquired at an unknown date from the Armstrong family.⁷¹ Maps suggest that it was purchased between 1849 and 1860.⁷² For a time, it functioned as a parsonage for members of the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church.⁷³
This Colonial Revival house, according to records, was acquired at an unknown date from the Armstrong family.⁷¹ Maps suggest that it was purchased between 1849 and 1860.⁷² For a time, it functioned as a parsonage for members of the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church.⁷³
414 Village Road East (1870?)
This 2.5 story hip-roof double house's most unique feature is its two identical entrances, suggesting dual occupancy during its history. The Mercer County Inventory indicates that there is an 18th-century core - a claim buttressed by the building's proximity to the road. However, the current façade reflects early-mid 20th century changes.⁷⁴
Township tax records indicate construction in 1870, but this may refer to renovations, rather than a full replacement of the house.⁷⁵ A building appears in this location in both the 1849 and 1875 maps, suggesting much earlier construction than township records indicate.⁷⁶
This 2.5 story hip-roof double house's most unique feature is its two identical entrances, suggesting dual occupancy during its history. The Mercer County Inventory indicates that there is an 18th-century core - a claim buttressed by the building's proximity to the road. However, the current façade reflects early-mid 20th century changes.⁷⁴
Township tax records indicate construction in 1870, but this may refer to renovations, rather than a full replacement of the house.⁷⁵ A building appears in this location in both the 1849 and 1875 maps, suggesting much earlier construction than township records indicate.⁷⁶
501 Village Road West: Dutch Neck Chapel/Library/Court (1882)
In 1880, the congregation of the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church purchased this lot directly across the road.⁷⁷ In 1882, this Victorian Gothic building was constructed, with further additions of a library and kitchen.⁷⁸ In 1924, the entrance was moved from the road-facing facade to the rear of the building when a balcony (since disappeared) was constructed on the front.⁷⁹ In 1938, two wings were added.⁸⁰ The chapel functioned as a church school until it was sold to the municipality.⁸¹ It was subsequently turned into a township court and county library.⁸² In 1983, it was converted into offices for the West Windsor Plainsboro Board of Education.⁸³
In 1880, the congregation of the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church purchased this lot directly across the road.⁷⁷ In 1882, this Victorian Gothic building was constructed, with further additions of a library and kitchen.⁷⁸ In 1924, the entrance was moved from the road-facing facade to the rear of the building when a balcony (since disappeared) was constructed on the front.⁷⁹ In 1938, two wings were added.⁸⁰ The chapel functioned as a church school until it was sold to the municipality.⁸¹ It was subsequently turned into a township court and county library.⁸² In 1983, it was converted into offices for the West Windsor Plainsboro Board of Education.⁸³
401 Village Road East: Windsor Chapel (1888)
Constructed in 1888, this building originally functioned as a barn for the Roszel family.⁸⁴ In 1978, members of Princeton's Westerley Road Church, looking to expand to more capacious accommodations, bought this property from Mr. and Mrs. David Kaplan.⁸⁵ Subsequently, in 1979, restoration of the barn began.⁸⁶ The first service was held in this building 1980.⁸⁷ In 1990, the edifice was greatly expanded.⁸⁸
Inside the building are historic photographs of the building. There is even an original wooden support post marked by a small brass plaque that commemorates the erection of the original barn in 1888.
Constructed in 1888, this building originally functioned as a barn for the Roszel family.⁸⁴ In 1978, members of Princeton's Westerley Road Church, looking to expand to more capacious accommodations, bought this property from Mr. and Mrs. David Kaplan.⁸⁵ Subsequently, in 1979, restoration of the barn began.⁸⁶ The first service was held in this building 1980.⁸⁷ In 1990, the edifice was greatly expanded.⁸⁸
Inside the building are historic photographs of the building. There is even an original wooden support post marked by a small brass plaque that commemorates the erection of the original barn in 1888.
Painting by E. Little, lent by Jeanette Flickinger
Intersection of South Mill and Village Roads: Old Town Hall (pre-1891)
As previously mentioned, prior to the relocation of the municipal government to Old Town Hall in 1891, Township Committee meetings were often held in Widow Bergen's Tavern and the Dutch Neck Meeting House. Town Hall was constructed here due to Dutch Neck's central location within West Windsor. The structure occupied both the site of the current park as well as the parking spaces for the WWP Board of Education building. It held administrative officials, police officers, and, until 1952, the local volunteer fire company.⁸⁹ Unfortunately, it was demolished in 1977 after the present Municipal Building at 271 Clarksville Road was opened in that year.⁹⁰ A park with a WWII memorial now stands in its place. In addition, the West Windsor Historic Bike Trail starts and ends at the kiosk that sits in this park.⁹¹
As previously mentioned, prior to the relocation of the municipal government to Old Town Hall in 1891, Township Committee meetings were often held in Widow Bergen's Tavern and the Dutch Neck Meeting House. Town Hall was constructed here due to Dutch Neck's central location within West Windsor. The structure occupied both the site of the current park as well as the parking spaces for the WWP Board of Education building. It held administrative officials, police officers, and, until 1952, the local volunteer fire company.⁸⁹ Unfortunately, it was demolished in 1977 after the present Municipal Building at 271 Clarksville Road was opened in that year.⁹⁰ A park with a WWII memorial now stands in its place. In addition, the West Windsor Historic Bike Trail starts and ends at the kiosk that sits in this park.⁹¹
392 Village Road East: Dutch Neck Elementary School
(1917)
This school has undergone numerous and significant additions since being opened in 1917. The oldest part of the school, shown in the adjacent photograph, was designed almost identically to Penns Neck School.⁹²
When construction of this institution commenced, three graves belonging to the Pompey Updike family, were discovered on the property, which, starting in the 1830s, functioned as a burial ground for the township's paupers. Pompey (1803-1890), an African-American landowner (notable, given that New Jersey did not even abolish slavery until 1846), moved to West Windsor some time prior to 1840 and purchased land just north of the Schenck Farmstead.⁹³
Throughout the 1700s and 1800s, a position called "Overseer of the Poor" managed a form of municipal welfare for West Windsor residents, wherein money was allotted for the public good of local paupers. The Overseer was also in charge of this burial ground, instituted under one of the township's earliest Overseers, Henry Dye. Eventually, these graves *would* get relocated to the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church's graveyard prior to the groundbreaking of the school.
Ten years after the school's construction, two rooms were added. In 1951, a front wing was built that expanded the school by 6 classrooms, an auditorium/gymnasium and bathrooms, and in 1956 the back wing was added including the East Entrance.⁹⁵
In 1962, Dutch Neck became a school for grades 4-6.⁹⁶ In 1974, the media center was built, filling the courtyard that had previously existed between the front and back additions.⁹⁷ A cafeteria and a three-room kindergarten wing were later constructed.⁹⁸ In 1985, a "temporary" 4-room quad was constructed, and would eventually gain acceptance as a permanent addition.⁹⁹ In 1990, Dutch Neck became a primary school again, handling grades K-8.¹⁰⁰ With the construction of several other elementary, upper-elementary, and middle schools over the next decade, Dutch Neck Elementary School reduced its student load to grades K-3.¹⁰¹
(1917)
This school has undergone numerous and significant additions since being opened in 1917. The oldest part of the school, shown in the adjacent photograph, was designed almost identically to Penns Neck School.⁹²
When construction of this institution commenced, three graves belonging to the Pompey Updike family, were discovered on the property, which, starting in the 1830s, functioned as a burial ground for the township's paupers. Pompey (1803-1890), an African-American landowner (notable, given that New Jersey did not even abolish slavery until 1846), moved to West Windsor some time prior to 1840 and purchased land just north of the Schenck Farmstead.⁹³
Throughout the 1700s and 1800s, a position called "Overseer of the Poor" managed a form of municipal welfare for West Windsor residents, wherein money was allotted for the public good of local paupers. The Overseer was also in charge of this burial ground, instituted under one of the township's earliest Overseers, Henry Dye. Eventually, these graves *would* get relocated to the Dutch Neck Presbyterian Church's graveyard prior to the groundbreaking of the school.
Ten years after the school's construction, two rooms were added. In 1951, a front wing was built that expanded the school by 6 classrooms, an auditorium/gymnasium and bathrooms, and in 1956 the back wing was added including the East Entrance.⁹⁵
In 1962, Dutch Neck became a school for grades 4-6.⁹⁶ In 1974, the media center was built, filling the courtyard that had previously existed between the front and back additions.⁹⁷ A cafeteria and a three-room kindergarten wing were later constructed.⁹⁸ In 1985, a "temporary" 4-room quad was constructed, and would eventually gain acceptance as a permanent addition.⁹⁹ In 1990, Dutch Neck became a primary school again, handling grades K-8.¹⁰⁰ With the construction of several other elementary, upper-elementary, and middle schools over the next decade, Dutch Neck Elementary School reduced its student load to grades K-3.¹⁰¹
First fire engine, a 1921 Model T. Ford. In engine: William Hann, Harvey Applegate. Front: Irving Everett, Frank Adams, Orville Walton. Back (L to R): Fred Cook, Gordon Tindall, Wyndom Smallbone, Wilbert Conover, Hiram, William, & John Mount.
151-153 South Mill Road: West Windsor Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 (1921)
Also referred to as Station 43, this was West Windsor's first volunteer fire company.¹⁰² Originally named the Dutch Neck Volunteer Fire Department, it served all of West Windsor until the Princeton Junction Fire Department (more on that later) was organized in 1926.¹⁰³ Its first chief, from 1921-1922, was Harvey D. Applegate.¹⁰⁴
In June 1921, a Model T Ford was purchased for $1400 and converted into the company's first fire truck.¹⁰⁵
The very first call for the company was a fire at the home of Irving Everett, on what is now Everett Drive in Princeton Junction (next to the current municipal complex).¹⁰⁶ While the farmhouse was destroyed, surrounding buildings were saved. This marked the first call in a long history for the department.
In spring 1924, the first rooftop siren was installed on Town Hall in Dutch Neck.¹⁰⁷ Before this, siren alarms were given by banging on a railroad car wheel, the number of taps indicating the location of the fire.¹⁰⁸
Also referred to as Station 43, this was West Windsor's first volunteer fire company.¹⁰² Originally named the Dutch Neck Volunteer Fire Department, it served all of West Windsor until the Princeton Junction Fire Department (more on that later) was organized in 1926.¹⁰³ Its first chief, from 1921-1922, was Harvey D. Applegate.¹⁰⁴
In June 1921, a Model T Ford was purchased for $1400 and converted into the company's first fire truck.¹⁰⁵
The very first call for the company was a fire at the home of Irving Everett, on what is now Everett Drive in Princeton Junction (next to the current municipal complex).¹⁰⁶ While the farmhouse was destroyed, surrounding buildings were saved. This marked the first call in a long history for the department.
In spring 1924, the first rooftop siren was installed on Town Hall in Dutch Neck.¹⁰⁷ Before this, siren alarms were given by banging on a railroad car wheel, the number of taps indicating the location of the fire.¹⁰⁸
In 1952, the West Windsor Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 was moved into its current low brick building, purchased from Charles Holman.¹⁰⁹ The majority of the construction labor on the firehouse was by the firemen, many of whom were construction workers. In 1962, the mortgage on the building was paid and the company enjoyed a Mortgage Burning Party.¹¹⁰
Improvements and additions have been made over the years, with funds raised in part by the now-defunct Ladies Auxillary.¹¹¹
In 1969, a meeting room/office was added to the rear.¹¹² In 1974, space for three more fire engines, a radio room, chief's office, engineer's room, and much-needed storage space was constructed.¹¹³
West Windsor Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 continues to be an instrumental organization, saving both buildings and lives throughout West Windsor and proving time and again its importance in this community.
For more information about this organization as well as other first-responders in the area, visit the "First Responders" webpage!
Improvements and additions have been made over the years, with funds raised in part by the now-defunct Ladies Auxillary.¹¹¹
In 1969, a meeting room/office was added to the rear.¹¹² In 1974, space for three more fire engines, a radio room, chief's office, engineer's room, and much-needed storage space was constructed.¹¹³
West Windsor Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 continues to be an instrumental organization, saving both buildings and lives throughout West Windsor and proving time and again its importance in this community.
For more information about this organization as well as other first-responders in the area, visit the "First Responders" webpage!
Dutch Neck Village Center: WWII Memorial (1947)
West Windsor has a distinctive history of service. This memorial, located in a small park directly across from the church, was constructed shortly after WWII to honor those who fought. Stars next to individuals' names mark those who died during the conflict. Photographs of town hall show this monument's location directly in front of the now-razed building.¹¹⁴ Annual services honoring members of the military are held at this spot, and still include veterans of the war as participants.¹¹⁵
West Windsor has a distinctive history of service. This memorial, located in a small park directly across from the church, was constructed shortly after WWII to honor those who fought. Stars next to individuals' names mark those who died during the conflict. Photographs of town hall show this monument's location directly in front of the now-razed building.¹¹⁴ Annual services honoring members of the military are held at this spot, and still include veterans of the war as participants.¹¹⁵
Play the slideshow below to explore some more images of historic Dutch Neck!
