BRICK TOWNSHIP, NJ – In the quiet community of Brick Township, a unique dwelling known as the ‘Midget House’ has caught the attention of locals and tourists alike for years. This unusually small residence, complete with scaled-down doors, windows, and furnishings, has been the subject of speculation, folklore, and endless curiosity.
First, we want to say that, the word is now offensive and was used because that it the official unofficial name of the house. That’s the last we’ll be saying about that.
Growing up in Ocean County, almost everyone knew about the house. We all made at least one pilgrimage to it at some point. Now, it has been once again forgotten and many people who live in Brick haven’t heard of the legend and lore that surrounds the home.
Originally built in the 1960s as a playhouse by two grandparents for their grandchildren, the house remains an architectural enigma. While some accounts suggest that it was constructed to be a playhouse for a wealthy family’s children, others propose it was intended for little people or individuals with dwarfism. The truth, however, remains elusive.
In 2015, the owners opened up about the house. They wanted to sell it. It has electricity, and running water and was most likely made as a playhouse for a child, not as the legend claims, for a family of small people. It sits in the backyard of a real-sized home.
The owners said the house had gained national attention and people from all over the country were coming to take a look at the house. Then there was the vandalism. Then the constant visitors in their backyard take pictures.
Rumors swirled in the 80s, 90s and 2000s about a family of little people that worked a local circus, but those were just rumors.
Despite various ownership changes over the years, the house continues to attract visitors from near and far. Some come to witness its miniature scale, while others arrive with hopes of uncovering the origins of this strange, diminutive abode.
The house itself is a single-story structure with all amenities scaled down to roughly two-thirds the size of those in a typical home. The low ceilings, small fixtures, and petite furniture have fascinated generations of New Jersey residents.
While the house is not officially recognized as a historical landmark, it does add a certain unique flavor to the community. Authorities also remind the public that it is private property and trespassing laws apply.
As time passes, the house of Brick Township continues to be a subject of fascination and speculation. While its history may never be fully revealed, its legacy as one of New Jersey’s most unusual residences is well cemented.