“Haven’t you always dreamed about such a green Paradise as this in which to spend a glorious day?
Grenloch Terrace, a small village 3 blocks deep by 6 blocks wide has been a residential area since before the Europeans arrived. Hemmed in by Green Acres and the lake on one side and by Camden County’s almshouse on the other, it fits into its cul-de-sac neatly with curbless streets overhung by old maple and buttonwood trees. The Terrace spans centuries. Its residential life began with native Americans, followed by the 18th century settler John Wilkins, whose kin eventually drew up the street plan, and reached its peak in the 19th century industrialization by the Bateman family. Grenloch’s story revolves around key structures. One is the original Wilkins’ farmhouse. There is little paperwork available on the family, but the house itself has a story to tell. The Batemans left the remnants of their factory and their well-written letters and memoirs add a first-person touch to understanding our town. Another facet of the history is the First Presbyterian Church of Grenloch which preserved numerous photographs, and of course, it wouldn’t be Grenloch without Grenloch Lake Park.

Constance L. McCart, Ed.D., is a retired school administrator and graduate of Rowan and Temple Universities. She has been a resident of Grenloch Terrace for 36 years, residing in the Colonial-era Wilkins family home. Other publications include From Beau’s Kitchen, 2010 and Images of America; Washington Township, Gloucester County. Arcadia Publishing, 2009

Constance McCart
22 Milburn Avenue, box 238
Grenloch NJ 08032
856 227 9017
mccartc@comcast.net