Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Why this is important:

Moffa's farm is located very close to the Big Timber Creek, which is an important tributary of the Delaware River. It is the oldest standing house in Gloucester Township, being built in 1708 (or earlier!). The house has been officially renamed as "The Historic Robert-Marshall Home" thanks to the New Jersey State Historic Register, which has deemed the house historic. The special craftsmanship in the house qualifies the Robert-Marshall Home for designation as historic. "Punch & gouge" mantle-craft and other elements of construction of the home make it a very distinct historic site. Another building, which served as a restaurant for many years was recently demolished. (This restaurant was frequented by many famous people including Frank Sinatra!) In its current state, the home does not look appealing from the outside due to its renovations over the years. With research and garnered support from the community, it will be possible to gain grants and other financial help to restore the site.This is what the site currently looks like.

The site is important to our community due to it's location along the Big Timber Creek. It sits between Old Pine Farm and Slim's Ranch, which are preserved green spaces. If preserved, it could be a prime spot for families and other groups to go canoing or on a nature hike, since it would sit in a large green-way which stretches throughout the Northeast.
Green space is very important, especially in Gloucester Township since our town is almost built out completely. It is nearly 100% suburban sprawl. The township has suggested building a Age-Restricted development on the site, which would bring high revenues for the town. Unfortunately, this would deplete another site which is full of history, and it will be completely forgotten. With only a few other preserved spaces and historic sites, Moffa's Farm preservation is crucial to maintaining our town's identity.

2 comments:

Amanda said...

I am a Geography student at Rowan working on land Use trends and changes in Gloucester Township for my senior seminar paper. Would I be able to obtain a copy of your final report for the project you completed on Moffas farm.

Thanks!
Amanda

Amanda said...

I am a Geography student at Rowan working on land Use trends and changes in Gloucester Township for my senior seminar paper. Would I be able to obtain a copy of your final report for the project you completed on Moffas farm.

Thanks!
Amanda