LAWNSIDE, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — A historical landmark in South Jersey that was part of the Underground Railroad is at risk of falling into disrepair. Preservationists are looking to raise $100,000 to save the house.
The Peter Mott House in Lawnside, New Jersey, is 176 years old. It belonged to African Methodist Episcopal preacher Peter Mott and his wife Elizabeth, who provided enslaved people with refuge during the years before the Civil War.
The house has stood the test of time with help from the community, but now it needs more assistance for essential repairs.
Linda Shockley, president of the Lawnside Historical Society, which owns the house, said those repairs won't be cheap, especially in the supply shortage pandemic world.
"We need windows replaced, we need to repair the clapboard, some of which is original," she said.
"You can see there's some problem areas. The roof needs to be replaced as well, cedar shingles that need to be replaced really badly. We also need a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. New doors, interior stairs, it's a laundry list of those kinds of things. And then waterproofing. We just can't afford to have any leaks coming into the building."
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Shockley said the New Jersey Historic Trust has agreed to donate $60,000, but in order for that to happen they have to raise another $60,000 to match. She hopes people will want to invest in the future of the home, which belonged to AME preacher Peter Mott and wife Elizabeth, who provided enslaved people with refuge.
"This is a town that's less than 2 square miles, and we have three sites on the National Register of Historic Places. That's how significant we know this community is, and it's a wonderful story," she said.
"Here's a small town in the northern United States, it's been governed by African Americans since before its incorporation in 1926. We think that's a heritage to be proud of, to teach children about not only here but around the country and certainly throughout the state."
Shockley said although the house has been through its challenges before, she's hopeful it can overcome this one as well.