- Sunday 2:00pm – 4:00pm, and by appointment (Temporarily Closed)
- Closed Easter, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day
- Guided tours
- Special events offered throughout the year
- Permanent collections
- Rotating exhibits
- Partially ADA accessible
- Restroom
- Off-street parking
- Museum store
- Members: Free
- Children under 10: Free
- Non-members: $5 suggested donation
Nathaniel Drake House Museum
602 West Front Street, Plainfield, NJ 07060
908-755-5831
Leading up to the Revolutionary War’s Battle of Short Hills, the Nathaniel Drake House was occupied by General George Washington. On June 25, 1777, Washington held a Council of War at the house and later commanded his troops to leave the Drake House to fight in the Battle of Short Hills which resulted in a tactical victory for the British but also a strategic victory for the Americans.
The original house was constructed in 1746 as a Georgian farm house by Isaac Drake, his sons, and his slaves. The house is significant for its association with wealthy New York businessman John S. Harberger and with the development of Plainfield beginning in the mid-eighteenth century through the early twentieth century. The house features three Colonial era rooms, including Washington’s bedroom. Today, the house serves as the headquarters for the Historical Society of Plainfield which is dedicated to the study, enjoyment, and discovery of Plainfield's rich and diverse history.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO
- Take a guided tour to view the museum’s permanent collections including period furnished rooms, costumes, historical books, photos and prints, paintings, and community memorabilia
- Visit Washing Rock State Park, one of the oldest state parks in New Jersey and a valuable lookout point during the American Revolution
Journey through Jersey strives to have the most up-to-date information, but always check with the site itself before planning a visit.
