The Hendrick Fisher House, built c. 1688 for William Dockwra, is believed to be the oldest historic structure in Somerset County. The house was owned by Hendrick Fisher (originally Visscher), a Revolutionary firebrand and farmer whose resistance to the British during the six years the Revolution was fought in New Jersey, contributed to the patriots’ ultimate victory. In the early 20th century, the Hendrick Fisher House was remodeled to its current Colonial Revival style exterior by then owner Claude Goodsell. The interior features Art Nouveau style wood paneling and inlaid flooring. The 1688 structure remains, although subsequent additions and alterations have changed the house from the original farmer’s house.
Recent restoration revealed mud and straw walls beneath an unusual lath and plaster construction, as well as plaster walls with antique carved walnut and oak paneling. The beautiful inlaid oak and walnut floors, hand carved balustrade and spindles of the staircase, along with a carved sandstone fireplace, add to the ambiance of this historic residence.
Today, the Fisher homestead is the property of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA and is located on the grounds of the St. Andrew Center. The Center serves as the headquarters of The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA and includes many points of interest.
