Plan of Hammonton Restoration Nears Completion

Nearly a year after restoration work began, the Plan of Hammonton, a mid-19th century artifact that captures an early layout of the town, is nearing the end of its journey at the Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts (CCAHA) in Philadelphia. Conservation specialists have been carefully stabilizing and preparing the Plan of Hammonton for safe long-term display. The artifact remains at their lab as final preservation and framing work continues, a process expected to take another month or more before its return to Hammonton.

The effort, coordinated by the Historical Society of Hammonton, marks a major step in preserving one of the community’s oldest surviving documents. The work was funded through the generosity of 53 local contributors, whose support covered the cost of the project. Sponsors range from individual residents to civic organizations and local businesses. Gold Sponsors include Truist Bank, the Hammonton Education Association, and Cape Regional Urgent Care.

“As educators, we recognize the power of history to inspire learning and strengthen community pride,” said Tracy Angelozzi, Vice President of the Hammonton Education Association. “Supporting the Plan of Hammonton restoration allows us to help preserve a tangible piece of Hammonton’s story for generations of students to come. The Hammonton Education Association is proud to support and sponsor this initiative as part of our ongoing commitment to projects that connect education with our community. We’re thrilled to see this important piece of local history brought back to life and look forward to the exciting public reveal. By contributing to the restoration of the Plan of Hammonton, we hope to ensure that students and residents alike can continue to learn from and celebrate the history that defines our town.”

Once the Plan of Hammonton returns, it will be installed in Town Hall alongside a recognition plaque honoring the contributors, with an unveiling event to follow.

“Preserving Hammonton’s history ensures that future generations can appreciate the stories, people, and traditions that shaped our town’s identity,” said Victoria Nicholls of Cape Regional Urgent Care – Bellevue. “Our business was inspired to support this project because we believe a strong community is built on honoring its past while caring for its future. This effort brings neighbors together and celebrates the unique character that makes Hammonton such a special place to live and work.”

“This has truly been a community-driven initiative,” said Eileen Unger, President of the Historical Society of Hammonton. “It’s inspiring to see so many organizations and individuals come together to protect something that connects us all. We’re grateful to our sponsors and to the CCAHA team for their care and expertise.”

Future updates will offer a closer look at the conservation process, behind-the-scenes techniques, and community partnerships that made this effort to preserve Hammonton’s past possible.