The Historical Society of the Somerset Hills

The Historical Society of the Somerset Hills (THSSH) is a nonprofit organization based in Somerset County, New Jersey. Founded in 1928 as the Historical Society of Basking Ridge, it was later renamed in 1988 to broaden its scope and include the communities of Bedminster Township, Bernards Township, Bernardsville, Far Hills, and Peapack-Gladstone.

History

The Historical Society of the Somerset Hills is headquartered at the Brick Academy, a Federal-style brick building constructed in 1809 by Reverend Dr. Robert Finley. Initially, the building served as a classical school, later becoming a public school, union meeting hall, and municipal building. It is listed on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. The society's original focus was on Basking Ridge, but in 1988, it expanded to encompass the broader Somerset Hills region.

Mission

THSSH's mission is to acquire, conserve, and share historic artifacts and information; cultivate interest in local history; encourage preservation; facilitate research; interpret the Brick Academy; and operate a local history museum. The organization is governed by a Board of Trustees, which meets monthly and conducts several general membership meetings annually.

Activities and Committees

The Historical Society of the Somerset Hills operates through various committees that cover aspects such as advertising, affiliations, archives and research, education, fundraising, and more. Volunteers play a crucial role in maintaining the organization's activities, including managing local historical artifacts, organizing events, and engaging with the community to promote local history.

Notable Figures and Sites

The Brick Academy, where THSSH is based, has a rich history, having served prominent students who later attended institutions like Princeton University. Notable alumni and figures associated with the region include Samuel Lewis Southard, Theodore Frelinghuysen, William Lewis Dayton, and Commodore Robert Field Stockton.

Affiliations

THSSH is affiliated with several historical preservation organizations, including the Somerset County Historical Society, League of Historical Societies of New Jersey, National Trust for Historic Preservation, and Preservation New Jersey.

EIN and Tax Status

The Historical Society of the Somerset Hills is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 23-7121249. This status allows it to receive tax-deductible donations to support its mission and activities.