The house is associated with the late 18^th century Van der Veer family and several generations of medical practitioners.  Today, however, the structure is most significant for its Colonial Revival appearance, a design by noted architect Chester Patterson.  Dr. Robert Harris, who owned the property in the early 20th century, commissioned its present configuration.

Acquired in 2003, the property is now a key part of the township’s master plan to develop a town center. The house is occupied by a caretaker and suffers from deferred maintenance and other poor conditions, including water damage, structural stabilization of attic framing, lack of accessibility and code violations.

The grant will help fund the preparation of pre-design development documents for the rehabilitation of the house, addressing exterior and structural repairs, mechanical upgrades and accessibility.