By: Michelle Jones, Follow South Jersey Community Journalist
SALEM, N.J. – An interesting fact about Salem that not many people may know is that this city and county contain beautiful samples of historic brick patterned homes.
At one time this style of home was a symbol of affluence. But not only was it a symbol of affluence, it meant that the Quaker community which pioneered the creation of these homes was here to stay. These fanciful brick homes literally and figuratively created the foundation of the city.
Salem County is geologically designed to support the manufacturing of brick and mortar. The western coastline of New Jersey including Salem County contains sand and limestone which is needed for the brick mortar. Along this coastline there is also an abundance of clay. These geological characteristics enabled homeowners to manufacture the brick and mortar on site, offering an easier form of material transport when building. In fact, homeowners and builders constructed clay ovens on property so it became a one stop material shop.
Quickly people realized that there was a need for inspectors to ensure the brick was the correct size and baked to withstand weight. Therefore brick appraisers would make their rounds throughout the community to ensure all bricks met the high standards set for building in 1683 and followed by the early settlers. It is likely that due to these regulations some of those buildings still stand in Salem City today.
Many of those buildings still stand today. The Old Salem County Courthouse was built with locally manufactured brick in 1735. This building is on the corner of Broadway and Market directly in the center of Salem.
The Hancock House is another, which stands out as a stunning representation of English Quaker pattern on the sidewalls of the structure. This beautiful home is located at 3 Front St. in Handcock’s Bridge. This house also has quite a history behind it other than the brickwork. To find out more about this stunning home click here.
There are a few other buildings throughout Salem County that pay homage to this beautiful brick craftsmanship. The John Darkin House, the Nicholson House, The Dickson House, The Richard Brick house, not to mention the buildings in Salem Historical District along Broadway and Market Streets.
Taking a drive to Salem County and through Salem City center is a treat for anyone interested in these constructed works of art. For anyone who wishes to take a deeper dive into this brick work you can visit The Salem Public Library at 112 West Broadway in Salem City. There one can find books and articles on brick patterns and historic homes in the area.
The rich history of Salem is truly on display with each beautiful brick building in town. It’s worth the drive.
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