Could you imagine a small borough with a significant role in shaping the region’s history? That’s Edgewater. Edgewater is located along the Hudson River in Bergen County. It has transformed over centuries. It was once a Lenape settlement. Later, Edgewater became a Dutch colony. Then it transitioned into an industrialized hub. Today, Edgewater is a thriving residential community.
Edgewater’s story begins well before its official incorporation. Algonquian people, mainly Lenape, called this area home. In 1640, David Pietersz Devries established Vriessendael. This was the first known colony in Bergen County. However, Kieft’s War in 1643 led to the destruction of parts of Vriessendael.
Fast forward to 1758. Etienne Burdett started a ferry service. It connected Edgewater to Manhattan. This ferry landing became crucial during the Revolutionary War. It served as a lifeline between Fort Lee and Fort Washington. Following the war, Edgewater evolved into a resort destination. Large hotels dotted the landscape in the 19th century. Burdett’s Landing transformed into “Old Stone Dock”. Cobblestones from the Palisades were shipped to Manhattan for paving streets.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought industrialization to Edgewater. The New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway built the Edgewater Tunnel in 1894. This connected Edgewater to its main line. Edgewater became a prime location for factories. It had deep water piers and access to Manhattan’s labor force. By 1918, Edgewater’s factories employed over 8,000 workers. They produced chemicals, dyes, and confectionery products.
However, the rise of trucking and obsolete facilities led to factory closures. Edgewater then transitioned into a residential community. Condominiums replaced industrial sites along the Hudson. Edgewater’s population surged. From the 1930s to 1990, the population hovered around 4,000 to 5,000. By 2010, it had jumped to over 11,500.
Edgewater was officially incorporated on December 7, 1894. It was initially named Undercliff. This happened during the “Boroughitis” phenomenon. The name changed to Edgewater on November 8, 1899. The name reflects its location on the Hudson River.
Today, Edgewater features several landmarks. Borough Hall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. So is the Edgewater Public Library and the Binghamton Ferry. The Edgewater Free Library is one of the remaining Carnegie libraries in New Jersey. It was dedicated in 1916.
Moreover, Edgewater is known for its free-flying colony of monk parakeets. These parrots have resided here since at least 1980. They build large nests in Memorial Park. Edgewater’s waterfront is part of the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. It provides stunning views of Manhattan.
Edgewater offers a glimpse into New Jersey’s multifaceted past. From its indigenous roots to its industrial boom and residential resurgence. Edgewater stands as a testament to time. It shows the continuous change and enduring spirit.