Vermeule Mansion (Van Derventer/Brunson House)

   The Vermeule Mansion is a Greek Revival style home which was probably constructed in 1840. In 1870 Jeremiah Van Derventer enlarged and remodeled the home in the Second Empire style, adding a mansard roofed third story. Van Derventer was a successful businessman who served as president of the First National Bank of Plainfield as well as the president of Plainfield’s gas company. He served on the Plainfield Township Committee and was a member of the County Board of Chosen Freeholders.
   In the early 20th century the home was again enlarged, this time by Van Derventer’s grandson, Augustus J. Brunson, who was an attorney and president of the First National Bank of Plainfield. In this remodeling, Colonial Revival fireplaces and features were introduced. The site, owned by North Plainfield and operated by the Friends of the Vermeule Mansion, currently houses the Fleetwood Museum of Art and Photographica.