Afterwards,
we were treated to a docent-led tour of the house by our very own Jere, who
wore a period dress of her own design and making. We learned a rich history
about this little corner of our state, particularly its role in the
Revolutionary War. And, of course, we learned a great deal about the
Covenhovens, who after becoming flush with money when they inherited $500,
built this grand house in 1752. Being of Dutch descent, the Covenhovens
incorporated Dutch, British, and Roman (then very popular) styles into their
home's architectural design. Their lovely home consists of a large kitchen,
parlor, and downstairs guest room along with three bedrooms upstairs (only two
of which are open to the public). One of these upstairs bedrooms has a unique
aspect, but you'll have to visit to see this wonderful surprise for yourself!
Along the way, Jere explained various aspects of Georgian life in general and
particulars about the Covenhovens' lifestyle.
Bringing things back around to Jane Austen, Jere noted that the house was later owned by an American sea captain who lived there with his family. They were known to entertain and host dances, just like the ones we read about in Austen's novels. The Covenhovens were also known to entertain, but Jane was only a toddler when the Battle of Monmouth was ongoing, at which time the Covenhoven House was seized by General Clinton to become the British headquarters in the area. Again, you must visit the house to hear the story of how the feisty 80-year-old Mrs. Covenhoven fought against the British in her own way!
Bringing things back around to Jane Austen, Jere noted that the house was later owned by an American sea captain who lived there with his family. They were known to entertain and host dances, just like the ones we read about in Austen's novels. The Covenhovens were also known to entertain, but Jane was only a toddler when the Battle of Monmouth was ongoing, at which time the Covenhoven House was seized by General Clinton to become the British headquarters in the area. Again, you must visit the house to hear the story of how the feisty 80-year-old Mrs. Covenhoven fought against the British in her own way!
The
entire CNJ-JASNA group so loved our visit to the Covenhoven House that we have
resolved to spend more time visiting historical
sites in Monmouth County!
(Cross-posted to CNJ-JASNA’s blog)
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