The History of Drumthwacket, Princeton, New Jersey

The Drumthwacket Foundation

Since 1982, the Drumthwacket Foundation has completely restored the house, furnished it with period antiques, restored the gardens, restored and furnished the Olden House, and opened the house for visits by thousands of New Jersey’s citizens and school children.

The Foundation . . .

Acts as curator for the public rooms of the house. Much like the White House, the Governor uses Drumthwacket to hold meetings, host receptions and welcome visitors from around the state and world.
Acquires important New Jersey-related art and furnishings through loans, gifts and privately donated funds.
Conducts tours for more than 10,000+ visitors a year.
Hosts field trips from schools from around the state. The Foundation is very proud of the Discover Drumthwacket school field trip program, whereby children from New Jersey’s less affluent school districts are provided with bus transportation to Drumthwacket and box lunches. This program is partially funded by a generous grant from United Trust.
Continues to restore and preserve the historic elements of the house and gardens.
Educates visitors about the Revolutionary War history of the site, the architectural features of the house and grounds, the prominent families who owned the house, and how the house is used by the sitting governor.

We have been supported by dozens of volunteer Docents who lead the tours and educate the public about the house, its contents and its history; and we have been fortunate to have dozens of dedicated and caring Trustees over the past twenty years. Our Trustees have been ably guided by the following Chairmen: Finn M.W. Caspersen (1982-84), John F. Hoff, III (1985-89), T. Joseph Semrod (1990-93), James L. Johnson (1994-2001), Alfred C. Koeppe (2002 - ) and Ralph Izzo (2003 - ).

The Drumthwacket Foundation is independent of state government and has no association with any political party. It is a charitable, 501(c)(3) foundation. Capital and operating funds are sustained wholly by private donations, grants, and memberships.

We need your support. Please share in our pride and enthusiasm by becoming a member. Join us!

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