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The first recorded boardwalk in the world was built in Atlantic City, New Jersey in 1870. The boardwalk was originally constructed as a way to keep sand out of the city's hotels and railway cars.
About Middlesex County
Middlesex County Timeline
Middlesex County, New Jersey has a rich history that dates back to the early 17th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lenape people, who lived off the land and had a complex social structure. However, the arrival of European colonists changed the landscape of the region.
In 1664, English settlers led by Sir George Carteret took control of the area, establishing the Province of New Jersey. The land was divided into various counties, and Middlesex County was officially created in 1683. The county was named after the historic county of Middlesex in England. Early settlements in the area included New Brunswick, Perth Amboy, and Woodbridge.
During the American Revolutionary War, Middlesex County played a significant role. Perth Amboy served as a strategic location for British troops, and General George Washington's army crossed the Raritan River in New Brunswick. The county was also home to important patriot leaders, such as John and William Livingston, who were instrumental in the fight for independence.
As the 19th century progressed, Middlesex County experienced rapid industrialization. The construction of canals and railroads facilitated trade and transportation, leading to the growth of manufacturing and agriculture. The county became known for its textile mills, ironworks, and pottery factories. Immigrants from Europe, particularly Ireland and Germany, flocked to the area for job opportunities.
In the 20th century, Middlesex County continued to evolve and diversify. It became a hub for pharmaceutical companies, with major corporations setting up headquarters and research facilities in the county. The county also witnessed suburbanization, with the population spreading beyond the urban centers. Today, Middlesex County is a bustling and diverse region, known for its rich history, thriving economy, and vibrant communities.
In 1664, English settlers led by Sir George Carteret took control of the area, establishing the Province of New Jersey. The land was divided into various counties, and Middlesex County was officially created in 1683. The county was named after the historic county of Middlesex in England. Early settlements in the area included New Brunswick, Perth Amboy, and Woodbridge.
During the American Revolutionary War, Middlesex County played a significant role. Perth Amboy served as a strategic location for British troops, and General George Washington's army crossed the Raritan River in New Brunswick. The county was also home to important patriot leaders, such as John and William Livingston, who were instrumental in the fight for independence.
As the 19th century progressed, Middlesex County experienced rapid industrialization. The construction of canals and railroads facilitated trade and transportation, leading to the growth of manufacturing and agriculture. The county became known for its textile mills, ironworks, and pottery factories. Immigrants from Europe, particularly Ireland and Germany, flocked to the area for job opportunities.
In the 20th century, Middlesex County continued to evolve and diversify. It became a hub for pharmaceutical companies, with major corporations setting up headquarters and research facilities in the county. The county also witnessed suburbanization, with the population spreading beyond the urban centers. Today, Middlesex County is a bustling and diverse region, known for its rich history, thriving economy, and vibrant communities.
Middlesex County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Middlesex County, New Jersey.
- 1675 - Middlesex County, NJ is established.
- 1746 - New Brunswick, the largest city in Middlesex County, is founded.
- 1766 - Rutgers University is chartered in New Brunswick.
- 1790 - Perth Amboy becomes the county seat of Middlesex County.
- 1836 - Piscataway Township is incorporated in Middlesex County.
- 1854 - Woodbridge Township is incorporated in Middlesex County.
- 1860 - South Plainfield is established as an independent borough in Middlesex County.
- 1869 - Edison Township is formed from portions of Woodbridge and Piscataway townships in Middlesex County.
- 1899 - Old Bridge Township is formed from parts of East Brunswick and South Amboy in Middlesex County.
- 1955 - East Brunswick becomes an independent township in Middlesex County.
- 1970 - Carteret becomes a borough in Middlesex County.
- 1981 - Monroe Township is established in Middlesex County.
- 1994 - Cranbury Township is formed from parts of South Brunswick and Monroe Township in Middlesex County.