Anderson Woods

The protection of Primrose Brook, the surrounding forest, and its wildlife is the primary preservation goal for this beautiful 15-acre heavily wooded, steep and rocky property.

Primrose Brook is a pristine, trout production stream which originates in the protected forests of Jockey Hollow National Historic Park. Primrose Brook flows through the lower section of the Anderson Woods’ property, and then through a section of Harding Township adjacent to Bailey’s Mill Road before emptying into the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge system.

Anderson Woods’ mixed hardwood forest is primarily composed of white and red oak, tulip, poplar, sassafras, hickory, beech, and ash trees. Historically, the property was planted with spruce trees, and was farmed for paper products during World War II.

Edgar and Joyce Anderson purchased the land in the 1950s, and built a home, studio and barn. The Andersons are renowned designers whose art is clearly inspired by the natural beauty of this property.

The Andersons sold Anderson Woods to the Harding Land Trust in 2007, ensuring that it would be preserved in perpetuity. Under the terms of the preservation arrangement, the Andersons will continue to live in their home and use their studio and barn for as long as they live.

The Harding Land Trust stewards the surrounding wooded acreage, and eventually the New Jersey Audubon Society will manage the house, studio and other buildings on the property to be used as a museum.