New Jersey is home to a wide range of treasures, some of which are hiding in unexpected places. Paterson is a city that's often overlooked, but it's absolutely worth a visit. While we're not suggesting you head down to the inner city, there are some sites that should not be missed. A favorite is the Great Falls, which I have covered in the past. Another is Lambert Castle, home to the world's largest decorative spoon collection.
Lambert Castle was built in 1892 as the home of Catholina Lambert, the owner of a prominent silk mill.
In his lifetime, the manor was visited by President William McKinley. After his death, the property was sold to the city of Paterson, and eventually ended up in the hands of Passaic County. The castle was originally used as office space, but grew into an incredible museum over time. By the 1990s, all four floors were open to the public.You'll find a variety of exhibits including period rooms and furnishings, art galleries (including a great falls gallery), and history galleries. Most of the museum is self guided, though tours of the first floor are offered every half hour, as interest permits. One of their more unique exhibits features a collection of art made with human hair.
One can't miss attraction is the museum's collection of decorative spoons - it's the largest in the world.
There are over 5,400 spoons in total, commemorating special events and a variety of places. 250 spoons are on display at any given time - the selection rotates. The collection was once owned by spoon enthusiast Bertha Schaefer Koempel, who gathered the spoons between 1882 and 1966. By the end of her life, her collection had become so well-known, that it was a question on the TV game show, Jeopardy. Many spoons were gifted to her by family and friends, and represent a wide array of areas and interests.The spoons on display are sorted into categories which have included subjects such as nautical, religious, Scandinavian, enameled figures, novelties, Middle Eastern, North African, and spoons made from natural materials. There is a spoon from Holland that has a windmill with blades that turn and you'll find spoons from the Middle East that contain lockets. It's all very intricate and interesting.
Adjacent to the castle is a striking observation tower.
Museum admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for children. The observation tower is free to visit. The views are breathtaking!
You can find Lambert Castle and its spectacular spoon collection at 3 Valley Road, Paterson. The museum is open 10 months a year, from mid-December to mid-October. When you're in the area, check out the Great Falls. Learn more about them by clicking here.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
