Proprietary House
New Jersey’s Only Royal Governor’s Mansion — Last Surviving Original Royal Governor’s Residence in the 13 Colonies, William Franklin’s Home 1774-1776, Benjamin Franklin Family Drama, Revolutionary War Headquarters, National Register of Historic Places, Perth Amboy Middlesex County New Jersey
Proprietary House is a state historic site in Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey — the only remaining original royal governor’s mansion in the original thirteen colonies. Completed in 1764, the house served as the official residence of William Franklin, son of Benjamin Franklin and the last Royal Governor of New Jersey, from 1774 until his arrest in 1776. The site features museum exhibits interpreting the dramatic family conflict between Benjamin and William Franklin, Revolutionary War history, colonial and Georgian architecture, guided tours, and listing on both the National and New Jersey Registers of Historic Places.
The Franklin Family Conflict
Proprietary House was the setting for one of the Revolution’s most painful personal dramas. In 1775, Benjamin Franklin visited his son William here in a last attempt to persuade him to support American independence. William refused, remaining loyal to the British Crown — a decision that permanently destroyed their relationship. In 1776, the Continental Congress ordered William Franklin placed under house arrest at Proprietary House. He was removed, tried for treason, and imprisoned, eventually dying in exile in England.
Military Headquarters
During the Revolution, the mansion served as headquarters for both sides — American General Hugh Mercer and British General Sir William Howe both used the house at different times. After the war, the building suffered fire damage, vandalism, and decades of neglect. It served as a hotel (the Brighton House), a boarding house, and a retirement home before the State of New Jersey acquired it.
Visitor Information
Today, Proprietary House is owned by the State of New Jersey and operated by the nonprofit Proprietary House Association. The museum offers guided tours interpreting the colonial governor’s lifestyle, the Franklin family conflict, and the Revolutionary War. Listed on both National and New Jersey Registers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was William Franklin?
William Franklin was Benjamin Franklin’s son and the last Royal Governor of New Jersey. He remained loyal to Britain and was arrested in 1776.
Can I visit?
Yes, the house operates as a museum with guided tours. Contact the Proprietary House Association for current hours.
