Abraham Staats House
Historical marker location:
South Bound Brook, New Jersey
( Marker is at the intersection of Main Street (County Route 527) and Von Steuben Lane, on the right when traveling south on Main Street.)
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The first recorded instance of a submarine attack on a ship occurred off the coast of New Jersey during the American Civil War. On February 17, 1864, the Confederate submarine CSS Hunley attacked and sank the Union ship USS Housatonic near Charleston, South Carolina, while on its way from New Jersey.
About Somerset County
Somerset County Timeline
Somerset County, located in the central part of New Jersey, has a rich history dating back hundreds of years. It was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Lenape and Raritan peoples. European settlers began to arrive in the region in the 17th century, with the area being formally settled in 1681.
During the American Revolutionary War, Somerset County played a significant role. It was the site of several important battles, including the Battle of Bound Brook in 1777. The county was also home to key figures in the war, such as General William Alexander, known as Lord Stirling, who had a large estate in Basking Ridge.
In the 19th century, Somerset County saw the growth of agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation. The construction of the Delaware and Raritan Canal in the 1830s brought economic development to the region, providing a vital transportation route for goods. The county's fertile land also made it an important agricultural center, with farms producing crops such as wheat, corn, and potatoes.
In the 20th century, Somerset County experienced rapid suburbanization and population growth. The development of transportation infrastructure, including highways and railways, made it increasingly accessible to neighboring urban areas like New York City. This, along with the county's attractive rural scenery and proximity to jobs, led to a surge in residential development. Today, Somerset County remains a thriving suburban community with a strong economy, diverse population, and a mix of urban and rural areas.
During the American Revolutionary War, Somerset County played a significant role. It was the site of several important battles, including the Battle of Bound Brook in 1777. The county was also home to key figures in the war, such as General William Alexander, known as Lord Stirling, who had a large estate in Basking Ridge.
In the 19th century, Somerset County saw the growth of agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation. The construction of the Delaware and Raritan Canal in the 1830s brought economic development to the region, providing a vital transportation route for goods. The county's fertile land also made it an important agricultural center, with farms producing crops such as wheat, corn, and potatoes.
In the 20th century, Somerset County experienced rapid suburbanization and population growth. The development of transportation infrastructure, including highways and railways, made it increasingly accessible to neighboring urban areas like New York City. This, along with the county's attractive rural scenery and proximity to jobs, led to a surge in residential development. Today, Somerset County remains a thriving suburban community with a strong economy, diverse population, and a mix of urban and rural areas.
Somerset County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Somerset County, New Jersey.
- 1645 - Somerset County, NJ is originally settled by the Dutch.
- 1686 - Somerset becomes one of four original counties in East Jersey.
- 1722 - The county is divided into two townships, Piscataway and Hillsborough.
- 1742 - Somerset County is officially established by an act of the Provincial Congress.
- 1759 - The county seat is established in Millstone (now known as Somerville).
- 1801 - Somerset County is divided into four townships: Bridgewater, Bernardston, Franklin, and Hillsborough.
- 1838 - The county seat is moved from Millstone to Somerville.
- 1868 - The Delaware and Raritan Canal is completed, bringing economic growth to Somerset County.
- 1899 - Somerset County's first public high school, Somerville High School, opens.
- 1931 - The Somerset County Park Commission is established, preserving and maintaining parks and recreational facilities.
- 1950s-1970s - Population in Somerset County rapidly increases due to suburbanization.
- 2000 - Somerset County celebrates its 250th anniversary.