Mill Hill Historic District | Trenton

The Mill Hill Historic District in Trenton, New Jersey, is a historically and architecturally significant neighborhood that reflects the city’s colonial roots, industrial growth, and urban residential development. It stands as one of Trenton’s oldest and most distinctive areas, rich with stories from the Revolutionary War era through the 19th century and into modern revitalization efforts.

Historical Significance

Mill Hill’s history dates back to the late 17th century, with its earliest industrial development initiated by Mahlon Stacy, a Quaker settler who built a grist mill in 1679 at the southeast corner of Broad Street where it crosses the Assunpink Creek. This mill marked the beginning of Mill Hill’s role as an industrial hub in the region, capitalizing on water power from the creek.

During the American Revolutionary War, Mill Hill gained critical historical importance. In 1777, it was near this area that the Second Battle of Trenton took place, a key military engagement following General George Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware River. Washington himself used the nearby Douglass House, a prominent building within the district, as his headquarters before the Battle of Princeton.

Throughout the 19th century, Mill Hill evolved as Trenton expanded. The introduction of transportation infrastructure such as the Delaware and Raritan Canal and the Camden and Amboy Railroad facilitated industrial growth, drawing workers and middle-class residents. The neighborhood transformed from an industrial area into a predominantly residential district, with many workers’ homes built close to factories and transportation routes.

Architectural Characteristics

The Mill Hill Historic District is renowned for its cohesive and well-preserved collection of 19th-century residential buildings. It contains around 284 contributing structures primarily consisting of two- and three-story brick row houses. These homes display a rich variety of architectural styles popular during the 19th century, including:

Greek Revival: Characterized by symmetrical shapes, heavy cornices, and pilasters resembling classical Greek temples.

Italianate: Featuring decorative brackets under wide eaves, tall narrow windows, and sometimes cupolas.

Second Empire: Notable for mansard roofs and ornate window surrounds.

Eastlake: A subset of Victorian architecture marked by intricate wooden trim and decorative detailing.

Despite the stylistic variety, these houses share common local vernacular elements, such as consistent setbacks and brick facades, which give the neighborhood a unified historic feel. The district’s street grid and compact layout further enhance its historical urban fabric.

Notable Landmarks Within Mill Hill

Douglass House: This Federal-style home, built around 1766, is one of the district’s most historically significant buildings. George Washington used it as his headquarters during the Revolutionary War, making it a key site in American history. The house now serves as a museum and educational center.

Mercer Street Friends Center: Built in 1858, this Quaker meeting house reflects the neighborhood’s religious and social history. It currently functions as a social service agency and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

Statue of George Washington: Installed in 1876 near the Douglass House, this marble statue commemorates Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River and serves as a local symbol of patriotism.

Mill Hill Park

At the heart of the neighborhood lies Mill Hill Park, a 2.9-acre green space situated at the intersection of East Front and South Broad Streets. The park is bisected by the Assunpink Creek and includes notable features such as:

An 1888 Pratt Truss iron bridge, an engineering landmark that adds historic charm.

A small amphitheater for community events and performances.

Walking paths and plazas that provide recreational space and promote neighborhood interaction.

The park acts as both a historical landmark and a social gathering space for residents.

Community and Cultural Life

The Mill Hill neighborhood is not only historically rich but also socially vibrant. The Old Mill Hill Society (OMHS), a dedicated community organization, plays a key role in preserving the area’s heritage and fostering a strong neighborhood identity.

Key community events supported by OMHS include:

Holiday House & Window Tour: This annual event, held since 1967, features beautifully decorated historic homes. It draws visitors and raises funds for preservation projects, strengthening community pride and awareness.

Garden Tour: Showcasing private gardens in spring, this event encourages neighbors to share their green spaces and promotes interaction among residents.

Stoop Scoops: A weekly summer gathering where neighbors host ice cream socials on their stoops or porches, encouraging informal socializing and community bonding.

Preservation and Revitalization Efforts

In the mid-20th century, Mill Hill, like many urban historic neighborhoods, faced decline due to industrial downturns, suburbanization, and neglect. Many buildings fell into disrepair, and the area risked losing its architectural and cultural identity.

Starting in the late 20th century, residents and preservation advocates worked tirelessly to reverse this trend. The designation of Mill Hill as a National Historic District in 1977 provided legal protections and access to grants for restoration. Local organizations, particularly the Old Mill Hill Society, spearheaded efforts to rehabilitate homes, maintain historic streetscapes, and promote sensitive development.

Today, many historic homes have been restored with a careful balance of modern amenities and preservation of original architectural features. These revitalization efforts have attracted new residents, including young professionals and artists, fostering a renewed sense of community and stability.

Summary

The Mill Hill Historic District is a remarkable example of American urban history and architectural heritage. Its roots in early industrial activity, pivotal role in the Revolutionary War, and collection of diverse 19th-century architecture create a rich cultural tapestry. Supported by strong community engagement and preservation efforts, Mill Hill continues to thrive as a living historic neighborhood, offering a window into Trenton’s past while embracing a dynamic future.