Double lime kiln in Washington get explanation and dedication.
An interpretive plaque describing the history and function of a historic double lime kiln recently was dedicated on property owned by the Hawke Pointe Golf Club in Washington, N.J.
(Special to lehighvalleylive.com) Located just off Rt. 31 on the ShopRite of Washington's entrance road, the historic site is accessible to visitors and history buffs alike.
The well-preserved condition of the kiln, its landscaped setting, and visitor parking are attributable to the interest and concern of Richard Cotton, owner of the Hawk Pointe Golf Club. Cotton, a proponent of sustainable development and a supporter and board member of the Musconetcong Watershed Association, previously restored a dismantled portion of the kiln out of respect for its history and aesthetic value.
Kilns of this type, though more often having a single burn chamber, or throat, were common throughout the Musconetcong River Valley and elsewhere in northwestern New Jersey.
The kiln is is an example of a double-kiln, one which would have served several area farms while also a commercial operation. Little is known of this kiln's history, though it was likely constructed in the late 1800s. Its presence is not shown on the 1874 Warren County Atlas.
The plaque was produced by the Historical & Archaeological Committee of the Musconetcong River Management Council. Funding for the plaque came from the Hawk Pointe Foundation, Village Super Market Inc. (ShopRite of Washington), the Washington Township Historical Commission and the US National Park Service.