“Plan of Hammonton” Behind the Scenes Look at the Restoration Process

The Historical Society of Hammonton’s rare 1856 “Plan of Hammonton” is entering its final stage of its almost yearlong conservation journey at the Conservation Center for Art & Historic Artifacts (CCAHA) in Philadelphia.

The restoration began with detailed before-treatment photography to document the plan’s fragile condition. Conservators then detached the it from its wooden supports and began an extensive cleaning process to address the heavy surface grime, two layers of varnish, and an unexpected water-sensitive coating that lay beneath. These steps dramatically brightened the plan and revealed watercolor details that had long been hidden.

To stabilize the artifact, the deteriorated cloth backing was removed and replaced with a mulberry paper and wheat-starch lining. Then it was digitally captured in high resolution and float-mounted onto custom archival rag board. The final housing and framing steps, including sealing the map in a specialized protective package and installing it in a custom black ash frame, are scheduled for completion later this year. These treatments not only improve the map’s appearance but also remove damaging contaminants, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

The project has been supported entirely through community sponsorships. Gold Sponsors include Cape Atlantic Urgent Care, the Hammonton Education Association, and Truist Bank. As Truist Branch Leader Shawn Baardsen shared, “Truist has been a part of this community through every chapter and our has evolved alongside the historical society. Supporting the historical society is our way of honoring where we came from and recognizing how we fit into Hammonton’s ongoing story. We hope this partnership inspires others to join us in preserving our shared history, because our purpose at Truist is to inspire and build better lives and communities. Together, we can make a lasting impact for generations to come.”

In addition to the gold sponsors, the Society gratefully acknowledges the generosity of our Silver Sponsors: Bethany Associates, Crowley and Carr Real Estate, Duke & Diane Bates, In Honor of John E. Jacobs, Sr., Hammonton Historic Preservation Commission, Joseph & Rose Arena, Life Mission Training Center, Louis & JoAnn Pantalone, NJM Insurance Group, and the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society. We also acknowledge the support of an additional 35 bronze sponsors.

After the restored Plan of Hammonton returns home, it will be permanently installed in Town Hall alongside a recognition plaque honoring all who made the project possible. An unveiling event will be held for contributors to celebrate the completion of the restoration.