National Register Listing

Grace Episcopal Church

600 Cleveland Ave., Plainfield City, NJ
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Art; Performing Arts

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2002.

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.

architecture art performing arts
The oldest lighthouse in the United States, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, is located in New Jersey. The lighthouse was built in 1764 and still functions as an aid to navigation.
New Jersey random facts
Union County, located in New Jersey, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native American tribe before being settled by Dutch and English colonists in the late 17th century. During the American Revolution, Union County played a significant role, with several battles and clashes taking place within its borders.

In the early 19th century, Union County experienced rapid industrialization, fueled by the expansion of railroads and the growth of manufacturing. Cities like Elizabeth and Rahway became major centers of industry, attracting immigrants from various European countries. This period of growth also saw the establishment of institutions like Kean University, which provided education and cultural opportunities to the residents of the county.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of suburbanization in Union County, with many wealthy families relocating from the cities to the more spacious and peaceful suburbs. This led to the construction of beautiful residential neighborhoods and the development of a strong middle-class community. Notable landmarks, such as the Union County Courthouse and the Union County Arts Center, were also built during this time.

In recent decades, Union County has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing times. The county has invested in revitalization efforts, focusing on urban redevelopment, preservation of historic sites, and the enhancement of cultural and recreational opportunities. Today, Union County is a vibrant and diverse community, with a strong sense of history and an ongoing commitment to progress and innovation.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Union County, New Jersey.

  • 1664 - Union County is settled by the English and becomes part of the Province of New Jersey.
  • 1683 - Union County is formally established and named after the Union of England and Scotland.
  • 1777 - The Battle of Springfield takes place in Union County during the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1801 - Elizabeth Township separates from Union County to become the independent City of Elizabeth.
  • 1857 - The Rahway Valley Railroad is established, providing transportation and boosting the local economy.
  • 1933 - The Union County Park Commission is created, starting the development of various parks throughout the county.
  • 1975 - The Watchung Reservation becomes an official park, offering recreational opportunities to residents.
  • 1995 - The Union County Performing Arts Center opens in Rahway, becoming a cultural hub for the region.