Plaque Awarded To Historical Society For Preservation Efforts

The Morris County Freeholders recognized at an August 10 meeting the restoration efforts on one of the oldest houses in the Mt. Tabor neighborhood of Parsippany, the J. Smith Richardson History House. The Freeholders presented a plaque to the Mt. Tabor Historical Society for their work, one that will be displayed at the Richardson House.

The ongoing restoration of the historic structure is in part financed through the voter-approved fund, the Morris County Historic Preservation Grant Program. $191,000 fund was allocated to the J. Smith Richardson House project. Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo said, “This is a really unique historical structure that offers a good look into the very interesting past in Mt. Tabor.’’

Mt. Tabor was a Methodist Camp Meeting community, one of several across the state, established in 1869. This historic district in Parsippany is known for Victorian-style cottages that look like small gingerbread houses. The Richardson structure was built in 1873 for J. Smith and Lydia Richardson. Evelyn Clark, a great niece of the Richardsons, bequeathed the house to the Mount Tabor Historical Society to be used as a camp meeting cottage museum in 2007. The funds allocated to the Richardson Project will help sustain the history in the architecture for years to come.

“It is a perfect use of historic preservation funds, restoring an iconic structure that is historically relevant to the early days of this community,’’ added Freeholder Christine Myers. “Preserving our historic buildings is critical as they provide visible evidence of the hard work and character and vision of those who formed our great county. We thank the Mt. Tabor Historic Society for their efforts.’’

The Preservation Plan includes roof replacement, structural work, exterior rehabilitation, and electrical upgrades for the Richardson house. Visitors will be able to view the renovation work during the Historic House Tour on September 24. Tickets are available online or by mail. For more information visit: http://mounttabornj.org/ or http://mounttabornj.org/museum/
For information on the county’s Historic Preservation Grant Program, visit: http://morriscountynj.gov/planning/divisions/prestrust/historic/

Image via Township of Parsippany, used with permission.