The authoritative source on
  early churches of New Jersey

   

About this site
We've created a database and photographic inventory on more than half the 18th & 19th century churches in the state and add to it each month. We welcome and solicit all contributions and suggestions from our visitors.

How to use this site
Consult the database
Glossary
List of churches, by county
Photographic notes
Links to related sites

   About the book

There are 59 surviving churches erected in Somerset County before 1900; all are included in this 191 page volume, published by the History Press in 2006.
     The book is available in paperback, contains more than 150 black-and-white illustrations (some of which can be seen on this site), a glossary of architectural terms, a brief outline of the religious denominations operating in 18th and 19th century New Jersey, index, and bibliography. There is an extended introductory essay, outlining the historical and cultural factors that shaped the churchscape, including construction types, architectural styles and why the churches are located where they are. The body of the book is arranged chronologically, so the reader can see the development of regional and national architectural styles, as well as trace the effect of the rising affluence in the region.

I'm very pleased with the job done by The History Press—the paper is very good and the quality of the reproductions is quite good, much better than I anticipated, actually. The book sells for $24.99 and is available from Amazon. Eventually the public libraries in the county will have copies. Here's a direct link to Amazon where you may order the book.

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Copyright (c) 2008 Frank L. Greenagel