The Borough Improvement League of Metuchen, founded in 1901,
is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization devoted to community service and preserving the historic Old Franklin School in Metuchen. 

Although not officially associated with or funded by the Borough of Metuchen, the “B.I.L.,” as it is commonly referred to, has a long history of civic-minded efforts to improve the quality of life in the Borough and its surrounding communities.

In addition to maintaining this important historic site for the public, the B.I.L. provides an annual $1000 scholarship to a graduating Metuchen High School student pursuing a career in healthcare, social work, or education, and has supported a variety of local charitable causes, such as Canine Companions and the Community Food Bank of New Jersey.   In addition, the B.I.L. actively supports and supports local pro-social efforts whenever possible.

As a membership organization associated with both the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC), the B.I.L. invites new members who are interested in its goals to join the organization.

Through annual fundraising events such as the Holiday House Tour in December and the High Tea in May, the B.I.L. works to preserve the Old Franklin School at 491 Middlesex Avenue, which it has owned and maintained for the past century.  

This historic one-room school house, constructed ca. 1807 as Metuchen’s first school, was documented by the Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) in 1942 and given a Certification of Eligibility (COE) for the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places in 1990. A full kitchen at the rear of the building makes it an ideal space to rent for special events and meetings, the proceeds from which also fund this 200-year old building’s upkeep.

As an all volunteer organization, the B.I.L. relies on contributions from its members and the generosity of the public to support its fundraising efforts and goals.   Please feel free to contact us for more information about the Borough Improvement League and the Old Franklin School.

Visitors since April 15, 2008