Christian Union: The Magazine Winter 2017 | Page 19

The Robert L . Melrose Center in Princeton , New Jersey
After graduation , Robert Melrose served in the U . S . Navy for two years and later entered graduate school at the University of Florida , where he also served as an assistant professor . Melrose ’ s goal was to join Princeton ’ s faculty , but tragically , he and his young wife died together in an electrical accident in 1959 .
In addition to sharing appreciation for the Melrose family with students , Nielson also noted the privilege of gathering in one of Princeton ’ s celebrated historic homes .
Originally on Nassau Street and across from the Bainbridge House , the Beatty House dates back to about 1780 . Jacob Hyer , a former colonel in the Continental Army and Hudibras Tavern proprietor , is believed to have built the center hall colonial structure , according to the Princeton Historical Society .
Around 1815 , Hyer reportedly sold the house to Erkuries Beatty , a Revolutionary War officer .
Notably , Beatty , the son of a Presbyterian clergyman , also served as a trustee of his alma mater , Princeton , and member of the class of 1762 . Erkuries
Beatty went on to become a county judge , member of New Jersey ’ s legislature , and father of yet another Princeton-trained Presbyterian clergyman , according to The Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography .
The house stayed in the Beatty family until 1875 when Jacob Vandeventer bought it and moved it to his namesake street , according to a newspaper account .
Over the years , the house functioned in a variety of capacities , including as a girls ’ school , boarding house , and antiques dealership . The Historical Society of Princeton purchased the property in 1991 and leased it to commercial tenants until private owners bought it in 2005 for a residence .
Renovations by the most recent owners resulted in the structure receiving an historic preservation award from the Princeton Historical Society . Highlights of the home include a brick , walk-in fireplace , an elegant , open two-story staircase , and hardwood floors .
“ The Melrose Center will build community . It will be a place that will feel like home ,” Nielson said . | cu w i n t e r 2 0 1 7 : : c h r i s t i a n u n i o n . o r g
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