Westervelt, John, House
a.k.a. The Nutshell
29 The Parkway, Harrington Park, NJ Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
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 is home to the oldest continuous seaside resort community in the United States. Cape May, located at the southern tip of the state, has been a popular vacation spot since the early 1800s.
During the American Revolution, Bergen County played a significant role. British troops occupied parts of the county, and the area witnessed numerous skirmishes and battles. One notable event was the Battle of Fort Lee, where General George Washington ordered the evacuation of his troops in the face of a British attack. After the war, Bergen County experienced population growth, with more diverse groups of people settling in the area.
In the 19th century, Bergen County saw significant development and industrialization. The construction of the Erie Canal and later, the railroads, helped connect Bergen County to New York City and facilitated the growth of manufacturing and commerce. Towns like Hackensack, Englewood, and Paterson became important centers of industry and trade. Additionally, the opening of the George Washington Bridge in 1931 further enhanced the county's accessibility and spurred suburbanization.
Today, Bergen County is a bustling and thriving suburban region. It is known for its diverse communities, excellent educational institutions, and proximity to New York City. The county offers a wide range of recreational and cultural attractions, including parks, museums, shopping malls, and dining options. With a combination of historical significance and modern amenities, Bergen County remains an attractive place to live, work, and visit.
Bergen County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bergen County, New Jersey.
- 1683 - Bergen County is established as one of New Jersey's original counties.
- 1660s-1700s - European settlers, primarily of Dutch and English descent, start to establish settlements in Bergen County.
- 1776-1783 - Bergen County plays a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War, with notable battles occurring at Fort Lee and New Bridge Landing.
- 19th century - Industrialization and urbanization lead to significant growth in Bergen County, attracting immigrants from various European countries.
- 1840 - The Northern Railroad of New Jersey opens, increasing connectivity and facilitating further economic development.
- 20th century - Suburbanization becomes a dominant trend, with many residents commuting to New York City for work.
- 1946 - Bergen Community College, the largest community college in New Jersey, is established.
- 1970s-1980s - Bergen County experiences a surge in population and construction, accompanied by commercial and retail development.
- 1990 - Bergen County's last remaining farm is sold, marking the end of the county's agricultural era.
- Present - Bergen County has a diverse population and is known for its wealth, cultural institutions, and proximity to New York City.