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Consider sparing Revolutionary War-era house, Norcross urges

Congressman cites support from constituents and findings of Camden County Historical Society.

Hopes of saving a Revolutionary War-era house in Bellmawr got a boost Wednesday as U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross released a letter urging the federal government to relocate rather than raze the structure.

In his letter to Gregory G. Nadeau, administrator of the Federal Highway Administration, the First District Democrat urged officials "to pursue all options" to preserve the Hugg-Harrison-Glover House, citing its "ties to the American Revolution."

Long used as the administrative offices of St. Mary's Cemetery, the structure has  historical significance that was inexplicably overlooked during a state study more than a decade ago.

But local historians, architectural preservationists and history buffs have banded together in a spirited campaign, includinga lively Facebook page, to demonstrate that the house is significant enough to be relocated, perhaps to a site nearby on Browning Road. Demolition could occur as soon as November.

The house is owned by the N.J. Department of Transportation and is slated for demolition to clear the way for eventual completion of the I-295-Route 42 "Direct Connection" project.

Construction of new ramps and retaining walls already have carved off much of the former hillside on which the house long sat, leaving it perched on a literal and figurative precipice.

Historical Society President Chris Perks welcomed the letter Wednesday. In an email, he called it  "a highly significant step in the process to save the Hugg Harrison Glover house."

"Only the federal highway administration can reopen the...process whereby the house was mis-categorized as not eligible for preservation," added Perks, who was among a group of presrvation supporters who marched in Bellmawr's Fourth of July Parade in Revolutionary War costumes.

The letter "is especially valuable" in calling for a meeting to "discuss collaborative solutions." Perks said, adding, that "saving this valuable piece of American Revolutionary War history can only be achieved if all levels of government are working together."

More than 2,000 people have signed petitions to save the house, Perks noted.