Most Endangered N.J. Places List Includes Sandy-Torn Mansions, Farmland

A state historic preservation advocacy group released its list of the most endangered New Jersey sites Wednesday, detailing damage, some Superstorm-Sandy related, that has put 10 landmarks at risk for demolition. 

Properties that were classified as the "most endangered" have architectural and historic integrity with an identified threat and Preservation New Jersey, the organization that compiled the list, felt their inclusion could potentially help legislators realize the importance in preserving them. Included on the list is Morris County's Glen Alpin property in Harding Township. The Gothic Revival mansion is threatened by a need for sustainable use, according to Preservation New Jersey. 

The Morris Canal Rockaway River Aqueduct, in Denville, also made the list with a threat of demolition imminent.

In Essex County, the 18th century Collins House in Bloomfield, which has ties to the founders of the town, also made the list as well as Bergen County's Jacob Vanderbeck Jr. House. The 18th century house in Fair Lawn has also been threatened with demolition and a reduced amount of regulatory protection.

The Deserted Village of Feltville, in Berkley Heights Township, an industrial village including cabins with painted murals by Hispanic artist Robert de la Selva, is in danger of deterioration and funding reductions.

Other properties on the endangered list include:

• Valley Road School, Princeton
• Layton Farmstead, Wall Township
• Green Hotel, Woodbury
• The Benjamin Cooper House, Camden

Throughout the state, properties damaged by Superstorm Sandy are endangered, according to Preservation New Jersey, as new building codes and regulations may cause them to be non-compliant. Additionally, the state's resource for funding farmland conservation, the Garden State Preservation Trust, has run out of funds, leaving many rehabilitation and preservation projects in danger.

Preservation New Jersey will be advocating for legislation that protects these and other historic properties throughout the state.