Elizabeth Ward

Atlantic County, located in the southeastern part of New Jersey, has a rich history that stretches back to precolonial times. The land that is now Atlantic County was originally home to the Lenape Native American tribe, who had an established society based on fishing, hunting, and agriculture. European settlers began arriving in the area in the 17th century, with English, Dutch, and Swedish colonizers trading with the Lenape for furs and other resources.

In 1694, Atlantic County was officially established as a part of Gloucester County. However, it wasn't until 1837 that the county was formally organized and separated from Gloucester County. The name "Atlantic" was chosen due to the region's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The county saw rapid growth and development in the 19th century, thanks to improvements in transportation, especially the construction of the Camden and Atlantic Railroad.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Atlantic County experienced a boom in population and tourism. The seaside resorts of Atlantic City and Margate became popular destinations, attracting wealthy vacationers from cities like Philadelphia and New York. Atlantic City became particularly famous for its boardwalk and casino industry, establishing its reputation as the "Las Vegas of the East."

However, the county also faced challenges in the 20th century. The Great Depression of the 1930s hit Atlantic City hard, leading to a decline in tourism and economic instability. In recent years, efforts have been made to revitalize the county, with a focus on diversifying the economy beyond tourism and casinos. Atlantic County continues to be an important center for agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare, while also preserving its historical and cultural heritage.