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Experience life during the early years of the Industrial Revolution and dawn of a new era in communications. This 7.5-acre National Historic Landmark site preserves the restored estate of Stephen Vail, proprietor of the Speedwell Iron Works from the early to mid-1800's. Experience life during the mid 19th century through guided tours, special events, programs, and exhibits.

Begin your visit at the newly restored L'Hommedieu House Visitors Center. Here you will be treated to the site orientation video and permanent exhibit, "S.S. Savannah: Expanding Speedwell's Horizons." Constructed in the early 1820s, the L'Hommedieu House was moved to the site in the late 1960s, when its original location was threatened. You can also shop for unique gifts and souvenirs at the Friends of Historic Speedwell Gift Shop.

The most significant building at Historic Speedwell is the Factory*, a National Historic Landmark where Stephen Vail's son, Alfred, worked with Samuel F.B. Morse to perfect the telegraph. It was here on January 11, 1838 where the electromagnetic telegraph was first publicly demonstrated - making Historic Speedwell the "Birthplace of the Telegraph." Attached to the Factory is the Wheelhouse. Witness the operational 24-foot overshot waterwheel, which once powered a grist mill and other activities inside the Factory.

The Vail House offers a peek into the lives of the Vail family during the 1844-64 period. Fully renovated by Stephen Vail in 1844, the home boasts original furnishings, period antiques, and portraits of Stephen and his first wife Bethiah, painted by Samuel F.B. Morse in 1837.

Additional original structures include the Granary that now houses an exhibit on early farm machines and implements, the Homestead Carriage House, which contains an exhibit dedicated to the Speedwell Iron Works, and the 1849 Carriage House, home to a variety of hands-on workshops, school programs, and special activities. 		  Enjoy a full calendar of weekend special events and programs that are exciting and educational for children and adults. Guided tours and exhibits create an experience you will never forget.

GENERAL INFORMATION
  • Season: April through October
  • Hours of Operation: Wednesday through Saturday 10am-5pm
    Sunday Noon-5pm
  • Last tour begins at 3:30pm
  • Guided tours are available of the Vail House and the Wheelhouse.
*Please note that the National Historic Landmark Factory Building will reopen on Friday, September 19 with a gala fundraiser honoring Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen and long-time Historic Speedwell volunteer Harold Benz.  There will also be a public grand re-opening on Saturday, September 20th, with special demonstrations and activities!  See the new-renovated Factory and the first phase of an interactive, hands-on exhibit tracing the history of the development of the telegraph!  For more information on these grand reopening events call (973) 285-6550.

Click on the Event Calendar link on your left to get more information on the Carriage House Craft Series, Evening Adult Craft Series, upcoming lectures, and the wonderful Holiday event scheduled for December.

Do you need directions?
 
333 Speedwell Avenue, Morristown, NJ 07960
(973) 285-6550
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