520 Third St.

This Italiante-style Victorian was built in 1874 for Judge Jeheil Shipman and was designed by the prominent architect Samuel Sloane, who designed the NJ State House in Trenton, as well as Greystone Mental Hospital. Mr. Sloane was based in Philadelphia, PA, and was responsible for many of the higher-end homes throughout PA and as far south as NC and SC. His designs set the standard for mid-late Victorian era architecture.

A map from 1880 shows that this house was one of the only houses on the block. The square, solidly-built structure is one of the largest houses on the street with unobstructed classic lines.

A likely original feature is the large granite mounting block by the curb edge allowed ladies easier access to and from their carriages. True to Itanliante style, the house boasts wide front steps with no railings. The massive double front doors of solid walnut have the original hardware and glass and open into a small vestibule and a second pair of doors and a wide hallway entry.

Jehiel Shipman was considered one of the best lawyers of his day, being counsel for the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad, the Belvidere National Bank, the Morris Canal, and other corporations. His first case as a newly admitted member of the bar was a murder case in which his ability and thoroughness cemented his success as a criminal lawyer, including the locally renowned case of the Rev. J. S. Harden.

Shipman married a daughter of another prominent lawyer, W. C. Morris, Esq.. Their son, George M. Shipman, was his law partner for many years.

Dr. Albertson, son-in-law to Judge Shipman, lived and practiced medicine at this location from the 1890s – 1920s.