Port Colden Historic District
Roughly along Port Colden Rd., Lock St., NJ 57, and Morris Canal Terrace, Washington Township, NJ Local significance of the district: Transportation; Exploration/settlement; Commerce; Education; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1999.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
New Jersey played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by African American slaves to escape to freedom in the North. Many abolitionists in New Jersey helped fugitive slaves, including Harriet Tubman, who is known to have traveled through the state.
About Warren County
Warren County Timeline
Warren County, New Jersey has a rich history that dates back to the early 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenni Lenape Native American tribe until European settlers began to arrive in the late 17th century. In 1738, Warren County was officially established as part of Sussex County, and was named after Joseph Warren, a hero of the Battle of Bunker Hill during the American Revolution.
During the Revolutionary War, Warren County played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the conflict. The area witnessed several key battles and skirmishes, including the infamous Battle of Monmouth in 1778. Many important figures from the revolution, such as George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, traversed through the county during this time. The war left a lasting impact on the region, with numerous historic sites and landmarks still standing today.
The 19th century saw the rise of industry in Warren County, particularly in the form of iron mining and manufacturing. The county became renowned for its vast iron ore deposits and numerous ironworks. This industrial boom led to population growth and the establishment of towns such as Phillipsburg and Hackettstown. However, as the demand for iron declined in the late 19th century, the county's economy began to shift towards agriculture and tourism.
In the 20th century, Warren County experienced periods of both growth and decline. The construction of major highways, such as Route 78 and Route 80, brought increased accessibility to the region, leading to a surge in suburban development in the post-World War II era. However, this growth also brought challenges like urban sprawl and loss of rural landscapes. Yet, Warren County has managed to preserve its natural beauty and historical significance, attracting visitors with its outdoor recreational opportunities and historic sites. Today, Warren County continues to evolve, combining its rich past with a vision for the future.
During the Revolutionary War, Warren County played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the conflict. The area witnessed several key battles and skirmishes, including the infamous Battle of Monmouth in 1778. Many important figures from the revolution, such as George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, traversed through the county during this time. The war left a lasting impact on the region, with numerous historic sites and landmarks still standing today.
The 19th century saw the rise of industry in Warren County, particularly in the form of iron mining and manufacturing. The county became renowned for its vast iron ore deposits and numerous ironworks. This industrial boom led to population growth and the establishment of towns such as Phillipsburg and Hackettstown. However, as the demand for iron declined in the late 19th century, the county's economy began to shift towards agriculture and tourism.
In the 20th century, Warren County experienced periods of both growth and decline. The construction of major highways, such as Route 78 and Route 80, brought increased accessibility to the region, leading to a surge in suburban development in the post-World War II era. However, this growth also brought challenges like urban sprawl and loss of rural landscapes. Yet, Warren County has managed to preserve its natural beauty and historical significance, attracting visitors with its outdoor recreational opportunities and historic sites. Today, Warren County continues to evolve, combining its rich past with a vision for the future.
Warren County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Warren County, New Jersey.
- Prehistoric times - Native Americans, including the Lenape tribe, inhabit the area
- 1694 - The first European settlement is established in what is now Warren County
- 1753 - Warren County is officially formed as part of Hunterdon County
- 1824 - Warren County becomes its own separate county
- 1839 - The Morris Canal, an important transportation route, reaches its terminus in Warren County
- Late 19th century - The iron industry becomes a major part of the county's economy
- Early 20th century - Agriculture and tourism continue to grow, with attractions like the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area becoming popular
- 1950s - 1970s - Urbanization and industrialization lead to significant population growth in the county
- Present - Warren County is known for its mix of rural charm and modern amenities, attracting residents and visitors alike