Englewood House
From Taylor-Bliss House to Englewood House
The Second Empire style Taylor-Bliss House is included in the Bergen County Historic Sites Survey #0215 of January 1982, New Jersey Office of Cultural and Environmental Services, Historic Preservation Section. Video Courtesy of Brett Thompson.
Englewood House, an architectural gem in Englewood, New Jersey, embarked on a transformative restoration journey to 500 Liberty Road where it will serve as headquarters for the Englewood Historical Society.
Beyond preserving history, this initiative aims to enrich the community by offered learning opportunities, hosting exhibits and facilitating community events.
Historical Significance
Constructed ca. 1867-1876 by Archibald Taylor, the house is a quintessential example of Second Empire Victorian architecture, distinguished by a mansard roof, arched windows , and prominent fourth floor tower. The second owner, Delos Bliss, was living there by 1895. Englewood, later dubbed “The Bedroom of Wall Street,” was home to numerous bankers and industrialists. Taylor and Bliss were forerunners of that illustrious era.
Preservation Efforts
In 2003, the Community Synagogue of Tenafly & Englewood acquired the property, repurposing it for religious gatherings. However, as the congregation expanded, there was a need for a larger structure. Facing the possibility of demolition, the synagogue collaborated with the Englewood Historical Society to explore preservation options. A decision was made to relocate the house to 500 Liberty Road, a site bequeathed to the city by the society’s founder, Eleanor Harvey. Englewood House now sits along the historic route of George Washington’s retreat, offering a fitting new home for the structure.
The Relocation Process
The relocation of the Taylor-Bliss House was a monumental endeavor. In June 2023 the house was carefully dismantled into five sections, transported and reassembled at the newly prepared site, employing a sustainable practice that reduces landfill waste and environmental impact. The house now stands restored to its original footprint, safeguarding a piece of Englewood’s heritage and setting a precedent for future preservation efforts.
Future Community Resource
With the relocation complete, The Englewood Historical Society is spearheading efforts to repurpose Englewood House as a multifaceted community resource. The vision includes:
- Historical Society Headquarters: Serving as the central office for the society, the house will provide space for archival storage, research, and administrative functions.
- Learning and study for the public to explore and communicate the history of Englewood, NJ. via programs, events, and special projects.
- Rotating exhibits will showcase local history, art, and cultural artifacts, enriching the community’s appreciation of its diverse heritage.
- Community Events Venue: The restored space will host lectures, workshops, and social gatherings, strengthening community bonds and encouraging civic engagement.
Funding and Community Support
The preservation and rehabilitation of the house requires substantial financial resources. The initial relocation costs were estimated at $350,000. Additional funds are needed for restoration and development.
The Englewood Historical Society has supported fundraising initiatives, donations and grants to realize this vision. Community involvement remains crucial, as collective efforts ensure the project’s success and sustainability.
Moving Forward
The restoration of Englewood House exemplifies a community’s commitment to preserving its historical landmarks while adapting them for contemporary use. By transforming this architectural treasure into a vibrant center for education and community engagement, Englewood not only honors its past but also invests in its future, creating a lasting legacy for generations to come.
In the Media
ABC, NBC, the Record, the Suburbanite, Northern Valley Press, the Jewish Standard, 201 magazine, and numerous online news featured the exciting move, see the linked and excerpted articles below.
A House with History. . .Who were Taylor and Bliss?
The first two owners of the Taylor-Bliss Second Empire Victorian house were Archibald Taylor, born 1840 in Northern Ireland, and Delos Bliss, born 1841 in Cortlandt County, New York.
They established businesses that bore their names and moved in a rapidly expanding industrialized world. The first owner, Taylor, built his grand house in what was then known as Highwood near the new train station.
Taylor-Bliss (Englewood House) Over The Years
Throughout the phases of the project we have made many discoveries. See a collage of Taylor-Bliss through the years.
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