Warren Township Historic Preservation Plan
The Warren Historic Sites Committee has adopted a Historic Preservation Plan for the Township. The purpose of the Plan is to foster pride in the community, help maintain historic resources and contribute to rational discussions about growth.
This is the first time a Preservation Plan has been prepared for the Township. The Committee members have been concerned about the loss of historic properties during the past few years, especially the demolition of the King George Inn, and hope that the adoption of a Preservation Plan will bring attention to Warren’s rich and storied past as well as protect its historic buildings and resources.
John Lindner, Chairman of the Committee and Township Planning Board Member, noted that “The Preservation Plan and related Historic Inventory is a great milestone for the Historic Sites Committee and our community. Warren’s history is now better preserved for future generations.”
Warren Township has numerous historic sites and structures located throughout the municipality. The Committee completed a thorough and comprehensive analysis of historic sites that have previously been identified by various government entities. Numerous factors and previous governmental designations were considered before finalizing a list of 192 Historic Resources that are an essential part of the Preservation Plan. The Historic Inventory includes sites which are listed on the State and National registers, sites which are now or potentially eligible for designation, and those deemed to be historically significant.
The Plan outlines various Goals and Strategies that should be considered to better recognize and protect the Township’s historic resources. Present-day Warren evolved out of a collection of historic hamlets or neighborhoods, i.e. – “Union Village & Mt. Bethel”, that still exists today. One goal of the Plan is to consider the establishment of Historic Districts for these areas. The Township’s Preservation Plan is consistent with the goals and objectives set forth in the Somerset County Preservation Plan that was adopted in 2022.
Alan Siegel, President of the Warren Township Historical Society, stated “As a town settled nearly 300 years ago, Warren ought to make every effort to preserve the historic structures, neighborhoods and environments which give our community much of its physical appeal and special character. The Preservation Plan will go a long way toward achieving that end.”
The Historic Sites Committee feels that with the coming 250th Anniversary of the founding of our country, it is a fitting time to recognize the many historic resources of the Township. It is also hoped that the Preservation Plan can be adopted as a Historic Element of the Township’s Master Plan.
To view the plan please go to warrennj.org/254/Historic-Sites-Committee.
