Great works of art offer its viewers an opportunity to experience a particular moment in time. While we oft acclaim art for its beauty and handiwork, art also plays an integral role in shaping how we remember and perceive our history. By preserving historically relevant artworks and passing them throughout the generations, we have the opportunity to continue the great stories and traditions which shape our experiences as a nation. As a community with profound roots to the formation of the United States, the City of Trenton sits atop a treasure trove of historical artifacts and artworks which offer a poignant telling of the American Revolution and beyond. And when discoveries are made which help paint a fuller picture of how our beloved city came to be, it is a cause for us all to celebrate.

In recent year’s, Trenton’s William Trent House Museum rediscovered a pivotal piece of Trenton history: a striking painting entitled “Mahlon Stacy Jr. Signing the Deed Conveying Property to William Trent”. As visually stunning as it is historically relevant, this priceless work of art conveys the son of Mahlon Stacy and Trenton’s namesake, William Trent, coming together to transfer 800 acres of land to Trent’s control. Upon discovery of the painting, the William Trent House Museum staff was dismayed to find that the original work was showing its age and was afflicted with holes and other imperfections. Now, however, thanks to the generous support of Trent House supporters, as well as the expert restoration abilities of Cristal Cusworth of Cusworth Conservation, this one of a kind piece has been restored to its former glory and can now be enjoyed for generations to come.

On Sunday, June 2nd, members of the William Trent House Museum staff and board, community leaders, and other stakeholders gathered at the William Trent House Museum for a heartfelt unveiling of this newly-restored masterpiece. Throughout the presentation, guests were granted the opportunity to learn more about the history of the painting, the process of its restoration, and what the meaning behind the work means for the present moment. Guests also had the chance to learn more about William Everitte Pedrick, a painter and amateur historian who took a particular interest in colonial and Revolutionary War events connected with Trenton.

During his heartwarming and informative remarks, Mayor of Trenton, Reed Gusciora, shared “We [the City of Trenton] are truly your partner with the Trent House, especially when we’re coming up on our semi-bicentennial celebration. We hope to attract a number of historical tourists from all over the country. We really are the turning of the Revolutionary War, and we’d really like to capitalize on that in 2026 when we celebrate the 4th of July.” With America’s 250th birthday just around the corner, there has never been a better time for the City of Trenton and its historic roots to shine!

For more information on this and other upcoming events at the William Trent House Museum, please visit their website, linked here: Trent House – Home. If you have any questions or would like any assistance in planning your trip to the museum, please contact Trent House staff at (609) 989-3027 for further assistance. The key to Trenton’s future is interwoven in our past, and thanks to the talented folks of the William Trent House Museum, we are now one step closer to retracing our roots.

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