If so, you must meet Herb Patullo and his Eagle Nest Museum, which had an over-the-top American spirit.
Meet Herb Patullo, Bound Brook’s great historian and a true American. While Herb passed in 2020, his work is legendary in Somerset County.
Herbert “Herb” Patullo (1929–2020) was a lifelong resident of Bound Brook, New Jersey, and a prominent figure in the community. Born into a large family, he was one of twelve children of Marianna and Benjamin Patullo. At the age of 16, Herb left high school to contribute to the World War II effort, working at the Army Supply Depot in Somerville. Following the war, he served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Charles R. Ware as a machinist’s mate, completing 45 months of sea duty before returning home. But people like me remember Herb for his love of country and history.
Upon his return, Herb transformed his family’s grocery store into Patullo’s Tavern. Herb’s commitment to community service and historical preservation earned him several accolades, including the Martinsville AmVet award in 1987, Citizen of the Year by the Bound Brook Elks in 2005, and the prestigious Chapel of Four Chaplains Legion of Honor award in 2008. Sadly, he would pass away on August 15, 2020, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of service, entrepreneurship, and a dedication to his community and its history.
Bound Brook’s Patullo’s Tavern
After serving in the war, Patullo’s Tavern was a cherished establishment in Bound Brook, New Jersey, founded by Herbert “Herb” Patullo. Originally, Herb transformed his family’s grocery store into a neighborhood tavern, which over time evolved into a full-service restaurant, nightclub, and banquet facility. The tavern became renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, cold beer, and the signature “Herbie Burger.” It served the community for over four decades before Herb retired in 2000. After his retirement, Herb opened a smaller eatery named “Herbie’s” on Talmage Avenue, continuing his passion for hospitality. Today, the original site of Patullo’s Tavern on Vosseller Avenue is home to Venue 518, a modern event space that continues the tradition of hosting community gatherings. But Herb had another passion, a red-white-blue passion that would go over the top.
Patullo’s Eagle’s Nest
Patullo had a great love for history and was a preservationist who played a pivotal role in safeguarding a significant Revolutionary War site known as the “Eagle’s Nest” in the Martinsville section of Bridgewater, New Jersey. This site, perched atop the Watchung Mountains, once served as a strategic lookout for General George Washington during the Middlebrook Encampments of 1777 and 1778–1779, offering expansive views of British troop movements across the Raritan Valley. The spot was also known as Wayne’s Brigade Encampment.
In the 1970s, concerned about potential development threatening this historic area, Herb began acquiring parcels of land surrounding the Eagle’s Nest. By 1988, he had secured approximately 40 acres along the ridge between Chimney Rock Road and Vosseller Avenue. On this land, he established his residence and a modest museum filled with Revolutionary War artifacts, personal memorabilia from his Navy service, and commissioned artworks depicting scenes from the encampments. Notably, one painting illustrated the raising of the American flag during the first Middlebrook Encampment, a moment believed by some historians to be among the earliest displays of the flag.
For those who were friends of Herb, following the reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, Herb would hold a picnic and open house at the Eagles Nest. Herb Patullo’s annual Fourth of July picnic was a cherished tradition in Bound Brook, New Jersey. The picnic drew a large crowd of neighbors and association members, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflected Herb’s profound commitment to the community and its history. Attendees fondly recall the gatherings as a highlight of the summer, where stories were shared and local heritage was celebrated.
The Courier News did a great story about author Robert Mayer and Herb Patullo’s Eagles Nest back in June 2018 – thanks so much for preserving history with these images.
“This spot is bigger than Valley Forge. It’s bigger than Jockey Hollow in Morristown. This spot has more history than almost any other spot during the entire Revolutionary War,” and Herb Patello knew it!
Robert Mayer, author and historian
Patullo’s Legacy
Many also remember Herb’s brother Samuel E. Patullo (1924–2009) was a prominent figure in Bound Brook, New Jersey, known for his extensive public service and deep community involvement. He served as a Councilman for two years before becoming Mayor, a position he held for twelve years.
Following Herb’s passing in 2020, his estate honored his wish to preserve the Eagle’s Nest by facilitating its sale to Somerset County. In 2023, the county acquired the 1.43-acre property for $680,000 using Open Space funds, integrating it into the Washington Valley Park system. While the site is currently not open to the public, plans are underway to develop it as a Welcome Center and historical landmark in anticipation of the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026. Herb’s unwavering commitment ensured that this once-overlooked site now holds its rightful place in the narrative of America’s fight for independence.
What’s Ahead
Looking ahead, Somerset County aims to enhance the site’s accessibility and educational value in time for the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026. Plans may include interpretive signage, guided tours, and integration into broader heritage tourism initiatives, ensuring that the Eagle’s Nest serves as a lasting tribute to both its Revolutionary War significance and Herb Patullo’s dedication to local history.
“This property fits into our strategy of promoting heritage tourism in Somerset County, especially with the 250th anniversary of the nation coming in 2026,” said Commissioner Melonie Marano, who is liaison to Somerset County’s Open Space Advisory Committee and the Cultural and Heritage Commission. “In addition to promoting history, it will also enhance outdoor recreation and improve parking and access for the nearby Hawk Watch and Chimney Rock sites.”
One More Photo
1943 – Herb attended a rally after the parade, where he and 30,000 others heard John Basilone address the crowd. Basilone was his and everyone’s hero and recipient of the “Congressional Medal of Honor”. Herb remembers a beautiful, well-attended parade. In 2017, he would serve as the Grand Marshall of the John Basilone Memorial Parade.
History Tidbit
While creating this Story…..did find this. Two Chimney Rocks – not to be confused. The left is in Martinsville (Bridgewater), and the right one is Chimney Rock State Park. Chimney Rock State Park is located in Rutherford County, North Carolina, approximately 25 miles southeast of Asheville, North Carolina (I need to go!)
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