Van Wagenen House

The Van Wagenen House is a historic residence in Jersey City that combines Greek Revival features with traditional Bergen County Dutch Stone construction. It now houses the Museum of Jersey City History, which presents regular exhibitions following substantial interior renovations.

The house was built in 1740 and received an addition during the 1820s that shaped its present form. Historical records suggest it may have hosted a meeting between George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette in 1779.

The building goes by the name Apple Tree House, derived from the orchard and cider press that once operated on the property. This heritage shapes how visitors understand the early development of the area.

The site is located on Academy Street and is easily accessible for visitors. Plan to spend time viewing the rotating exhibitions, as these are regularly updated and the experience works best when visiting as part of the museum tour.

Every Presidents' Day, the George Washington Society holds a wreath-laying ceremony at the site. This annual tradition marks the location's connection to the nation's early leadership and remains an observed moment in the community.