Piscataway, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) held a press conference on June 29 about federal funding he secured for the Metlar-Bodine House Museum. Pallone secured $500,000 in a federal spending bill signed into law last year to help complete an extensive restoration project for the museum, including construction of the Forever the 4th gallery that will feature the Ross Hall Wall.
Ross Hall served as headquarters for General George Washington and the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and is where Washington wrote the first order for the United States Army to celebrate the 4th of July. The troops were ordered to march across the Raritan River on Landing Lane Bridge, line the banks of the river in New Brunswick, and shoot their rifles down and up the line in the first organized salute to the nation’s independence. That evening, General Washington held a party at Ross Hall for officers, including Alexander Hamilton, Marquis de Lafayette, and Baron Von Stuben. The Ross Hall Wall is the only part of the original building that exists now.
“As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, I’m proud that the Metlar-Bodine House Museum will receive federal funding to help complete construction of the new Forever the 4th educational wing. New Jersey holds an important place in the founding of our country. It’s more critical now than ever to preserve our state’s connection to the past as we countdown to the 250th anniversary of our independence in 2026,” said Pallone. “We are lucky to have a museum right here in Middlesex County so that future generations can continue to learn about New Jersey’s important role in our country’s fight for independence.”
“This is wonderful news. The Township of Piscataway and the Fellowship for Metlar House have been waiting 22 years to give this Revolutionary War relic a home. The funding Congressman Pallone has helped to secure will soon make this a reality,” said Junelynn Sadlowski, Executive Director of the Metlar-Bodine House. “Some have said that the Ross Hall Wall is just as historically significant as the Liberty Bell, and the National Park Service designated it an American treasure in September 2021. With America’s 250th birthday in 2026, it is important for this incredible artifact to finally be on exhibit. These funds will make this happen. Museum volunteers, staff, and members of the fellowship are over-joyed and thankful for Congressman Pallone’s efforts.”
The wall has been recognized as an “American Treasure” by the National Park Service. The museum is also listed on the state and national registered historic sites and highlights the rich history of Middlesex County through a collection of local memorabilia and architecture.
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