Garretson Forge & Farm

Story

Garretson Forge and Farm is a farm owned by the Garretson Family since 1719. Located in Fair Lawn, Bergen County, New Jersey, United States, it is one of the oldest historic sites in the county. The Peter Garretson House (also known as Garretson-Brocker Home) was built in 1720 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 19, 1974.HistoryThe history of Garretson Forge and Farm began during the 17th century, with the immigration of three Dutch emigres: Gerrit Gerritse, his wife Annetje Hermansse, and their son Gerrit. In 1719, Gerrit purchased a huge plot of land known as the Slooterdam Patent from a businessman named David Daniellse. This plot of land was very large, encompassing many towns that are now in Bergen and Passaic, one of these towns being Fair Lawn. Gerrit's son Peter started construction shortly after the land purchase, and the history of Garretson Forge and Farm began. Originally called "The Garretson-Brocker home", Garretson Forge and Farm housed six generations of Garretsons for over 100 years.During its early existence, Garreston Forge and Farm was a large plantation that grew various types of crops and also housed multiple slaves. Over the years, however, pieces of Garretson Forge and Farm were sold off. Currently, the property is just under 2 acres. Many additions were made to Garretson Forge and Farm throughout the years including the construction and renovation of the main estate, which is part of the living museum. In 1902, major changes were made to the manor house, adding a second floor, outside porch, and a new roof. These 1902 renovations made Garretson Forge and Farm look like what it does today.