Area Children and Parents Conduct Archeological Dig in Somerset Hills

Children and parents from throughout the area, including Basking Ridge, conducted a dig with the help of professional archeologists at the Jacobus Vanderveer House in Bedminster last weekend that yielded some clues to the Somerset Hills' important role in Revolutionary War.

Sweltering temperatures and the lure of backyard pools did not deter 44 parents and children from participating in last Sunday's archaeological dig at the Jacobus Vanderveer House, located off Route 202/206 in Bedminster and reached via River Road. The dig was conducted with professional archeologists from Hunter Research in Trenton, according to a release for the house and museum from Renáe Tesauro.

When The Friends of the Jacobus Vanderveer House began restoring the pre-Revolutionary War home in Bedminster, it was envisioned as a living history museum — and history certainly came alive at the dig, where those who took part uncovered items from centuries past.

Participants first toured the Jacobus Vanderveer House and property, which served as headquarters for General Henry Knox during the winter of 1778-79 while he trained troops for battle in the American Revolution.  

Parents and children then joined the Hunter archaeologists for an introduction to archaeology and artifacts.

After that, they headed outdoors to four dig sites, selected by Hunter Research, where they learned to measure, plot, dig, sift, sort, wash and categorize the objects they found, according to the release.

As dirt fell through sifters, the children and parents were amazed at what was left behind — including small chards of pottery that had been buried for more than 200 years! These artifacts, along with others on display at the Jacobus Vanderveer House, tell the story of life in Bedminster and nearby in The Hills during Colonial days. 

The Jacobus Vanderveer House served as headquarters for General Henry Knox during the winter of 1778-79 and is the only known building still standing that was associated with the Pluckemin Artillery Cantonment, according to the Jacobus Vanderveer House website. The location is believed to be the first installation in America to train officers in engineering and artillery.

The Jacobus Vanderveer House interprets Dutch colonial life in America as well as the stay by General Knox and his family during the winter encampment.

A national and New Jersey Historic Site, the Jacobus Vanderveer House is a landmark that offers a vivid look into the history of the country and the lives of those who played important roles in its establishment.

The Jacobus Vanderveer House is located at 955 Route 202/206 in Bedminster, behind River Road Park. The entrance to the house is via River Road Park. For directions and more information about the Jacobus Vanderveer House, visit www.jvanderveerhouse.com.