A photo essay by Mark Czajkowski, staff photographer
Drumthwacket, the historic residence of the governors of New Jersey, has thrown open its doors to the public for the popular December Open House tours, which will take place on Wednesdays, Dec. 5 and 12, and Sunday, Dec. 9.
Once again, volunteers from garden clubs throughout the state have donated their time and talents to create spectacular seasonal decorations for the mansion, all from elegant, natural garden materials. The 2007 theme is Scottish — “Christmas in the Highlands.”
Garden clubs participating this year are Bayberry of Brielle; Community of Hunterdon; New Vernon; Mount Laurel; Bridgewater; Essex Fells; Spring Lake; the Trowel Club of New Brunswick; New Providence; Tenafly and Westfield.
Drumthwacket, built in 1835, is sited on land that witnessed the Princeton battle of the American Revolution. Olden House, the 18th century birthplace of Drumthwacket’s original owner, will also be open and is the location of the site’s gift shop.
To visit Drumthwacket, advance reservations are required. They can be made online at www.drumthwacket.org or by calling (609) 683-0057. There is ample on-site parking.
Admission is free. However, the Drumthwacket Foundation, an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit volunteer association, requests a $5 donation from each visitor to support its curatorial, cultural and educational mission. The foundation is always happy to welcome new members.
Drumthwacket is located on located on Route 206, south of downtown Princeton.

