10 Most 2025: Washington Wells Farm – Skillman (Somerset County)

The Washington Well Farm, located at 664 Route 518 in Skillman, New Jersey, is a historic property with deep Revolutionary War ties. Established in 1750 by Joost Duryee, a Dutch-American settler, the farm gained its name from an incident on June 25, 1778, when General George Washington and his troops, en route to the Battle of Monmouth, stopped at the farm's well and reportedly "drank it dry." The main house, dating back to 1753, features original elements such as wide-plank hardwood floors, hewn beams, and eight fireplaces. Additional structures on the property include a barn, an English-style carriage house, an out-kitchen, and a historic well across the street. 

In 2021, the property gained attention when the Rock Brook floodwaters from Hurricane Ida damaged a 1750 Dutch farmhouse on the farm. This led to the discovery of a small one-story cottage believed to have served as the dwelling for enslaved African Americans working on the farm. The cottage was carefully disassembled and relocated to the Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum grounds in January 2025 to preserve its historical significance. 

The Washington Well Farm stands as a testament to New Jersey's colonial and Revolutionary War history, offering insights into early American life and the contributions of enslaved individuals to the region's development. 

The previous owner of Washington Well Farm failed to properly maintain the historic property, leading to significant deterioration over time. Despite its deep historical importance—including ties to George Washington and Revolutionary War events—the buildings and grounds were largely neglected. Critical structures such as the 1753 main farmhouse, outbuildings, and the iconic well suffered from weather exposure, lack of routine upkeep, and, in some areas, structural compromise. 

Immediate intervention is needed to stabilize and restore the site. Without prompt preservation measures, Washington Well Farm risks irreversible loss, along with its rare and valuable connection to colonial, Revolutionary, and African American history in New Jersey.