Welcome to the Joseph S. Frelinghuysen Memorial, a site steeped in history and heritage. Located in Raritan, New Jersey, this location is notable for its connection to a pivotal moment in American history. On July 2, 1921, President Warren G. Harding signed the Knox–Porter Resolution here, officially ending the United States’ involvement in World War I. This marked the conclusion of a significant chapter in the early 20th century, as the resolution provided a formal end to hostilities between the U.S. and the Central Powers, separate from the Treaty of Versailles.
The estate belonged to Joseph Sherman Frelinghuysen Sr., a prominent figure in New Jersey’s political and social circles. The Frelinghuysen family has a long legacy of public service, with members serving in various political capacities throughout U.S. history. The event took place while Harding and Frelinghuysen were enjoying a round of golf at the nearby Raritan Valley Country Club. The signing was conducted with little ceremony, yet it underscored the estate’s role in facilitating an end to wartime tensions.
Tragically, the Frelinghuysen estate was destroyed by fire in the 1950s. Today, a shopping center stands where the estate once was, with a modest plaque commemorating this significant historical occurrence. As you reflect on this place, consider the many layers of history that have unfolded here, from private estate to a site of national importance.
Through its connection to the Knox–Porter Resolution, the Joseph S. Frelinghuysen Memorial plays a small yet meaningful part in the broader tapestry of American history, reminding us of the complex narratives that shape our past.
