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The Proprietary House

Built from 1762-1764 by architect John Edward Pryor, the Proprietary House was commissioned by the Board of Proprietors of East Jersey to serve as the official residence for then-Royal Governor William Franklin, son of the famous patriot Benjamin Franklin. Now in the midst of the house's ongoing 250th anniversary, we are looking forward to commemorating it with you, by way of many special events in the coming months. In addition to the Royal Mansion, the house was also several private residences, two hotels, a Civil War hospital for Union officers after the battle of Gettysburg, an orphanage, retirement home, and even an apartment building as late as the 1950's. It is one of the most historic buildings, not only in New Jersey, but the entire United States. We look forward to your visit!

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The Proprietary House is open for special events throughout the year. We are currently working on getting regular office hours on several days during the week. Please keep checking back for an announcement of these hours. If you would like a private or group tour, please call us and we would be happy to arrange something for you. As for the afternoon teas, the tea room is under construction, so they are cancelled for the time being. Please join us for our special holiday themed teas on select dates during the year.
The Proprietary House is maintained by the non-profit membership of the Proprietary House Association.  The Association members bring a host of valuable skills and talents in order to maintain the building and host educational and cultural events.  Volunteers make revolutionary war costumes for the yearly re