Kearny Cottage

Kearny Cottage is a 1781 residence with four rooms located near the mouth of the Raritan River on Catalpa Avenue. The building was relocated multiple times since its construction and now operates as a museum displaying objects from the area's maritime past.

Built in 1781 for Michael Kearny and his wife Elizabeth Lawrence, the house belonged to a family that later gained prominence in international commerce. Their son Lawrence established significant trade connections that shaped economic relationships with Asia during the early American period.

The museum displays maritime objects and items given by neighbors over the decades, telling stories of the local connection to river trade and seafaring life. These collections reflect how the community valued the waterfront and its commercial importance.

The museum sits near the Raritan River close to downtown Perth Amboy and is easily accessible on foot. The four rooms are small and intimate, so plan to spend time looking closely at the displayed objects and period details.

The property includes a colonial garden that shows how people in the 1700s grew vegetables, herbs, and fruit on home grounds in New Jersey. This preserved garden gives visitors a rarely seen glimpse into daily household practices beyond the building itself.

Location: Perth Amboy

GPS coordinates: 40.50639,-74.26583

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07