Richards Mansion - Atsion Burlington/New Jersey USA
Posted by: 
94RedRover
N 39° 44.515 W 074° 43.555
18S E 523483 N 4399149
Built in 1826 by Samuel Richards, then owner of the Atsion Village iron works, is a fine example of rural Greek Revival architecture. The mansion sits in the historic village of Atsion, off Route 206 in Shamong Township (Atsion).
Waymark Code: WM3YVW
Location: New Jersey, United States
Date Posted: 06/07/2008
Views: 26
In 1766, Charles Read dammed the Atsion River to create the water and power source needed to run a succesfull bog iron producing company. The iron works here played a vital part in the American Revolution.
By 1824, it was bankrupt and foreclosure proceedings shut it down. Samuel Richards bought the company and land, and reopened the furnace. The plant saw its highest production levels under Richards management.
In 1826, the mansion was built. As there wasn't any central heating, the Richards used this mansion as a summer house, and retired to their residence in Philadelphia when it got cold.
The entrance was centrally located, opening to a hallway. A large dining room flocked one side, and two parlors on the other side. The parlors could be opened to create one large room for dances. A small kitchen and serving room were ont he first floor as well, but the main kitchen was in the basement. An eight foot open hearth fireplace and a cool room for dairy and meat storage also were in the basement. Four bedrooms for the family were on the second floor, and four smaller bedrooms on the third floor for the house staff.
It is said that the Richards held lavish galas at the mansion.
Earliest Recorded Date of Construction: 01/01/1826
Architectural Period/Style: Rural Greek Revival
Type of Building e.g. Country House, Stately Home, Manor:
Summer House
Interesting Historical Facts or Connections:
Richards was the owner of the Atsion Village iron works, off Route 206 in Shamong Township (Atsion)
Main Material of Construction: Concrete - Block
Private/Public Access: Private
Opening Hours (if applicable): From: 9:00 AM To: 5:00 PM
Related Website: [Web Link]
Rating: 
Additional Dates of Construction: Not listed
Architect (if known): Not listed
Landscape Designer (if known): Not listed
Listed Building Status (if applicable): Not listed
Admission Fee (if applicable): Not Listed
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