Hackensack

Across the Hudson River, the New York City skyline offers Hackensack residents a breathtaking view, especially at night. Hackensack is more than just a suburb. It’s the county seat of Bergen County, a city pulsing with its own distinct energy. Hackensack’s name echoes the history of the Lenni Lenape. It honors Chief Oratam, the “Sagamore of Hacquinsacq,” who deeded this land in 1664. The name “Hackensack” itself is thought to mean “mouth of a river,” a testament to the vital waterway that shaped this community. Hackensack’s story begins as a Dutch trading post in 1639, evolving through French Huguenot and British occupation. Its role in the American Revolution was pivotal. In November 1776, George Washington himself headquartered in Hackensack. He and his troops camped on The Green. It was here that Washington made the critical decision to retreat, a strategic move that paved the way for the first American victory at Trenton. The Green still holds remnants of this history. The statue of General Enoch Poor, one of Washington’s officers, stands as a silent witness to those crucial days. General Poor, who died in 1780, is buried in the nearby cemetery of the Dutch Reformed Church. The church itself is a historical gem, the oldest in Bergen County and the second oldest in New Jersey. Originally built in 1696 and rebuilt in 1791, its walls have absorbed centuries of Hackensack’s story. Hackensack also boasts a unique piece of maritime history: the USS Ling. This World War II submarine is now a centerpiece of the New Jersey Naval Museum. Another notable figure connected to Hackensack is astronaut Wally Schirra, a testament to the city’s reach beyond earthly boundaries. Hackensack has also found its way into popular culture. From Tom Rush’s playful “If I Never Get Back to Hackensack” to Billy Joel’s “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song),” the city’s name resonates in music and film. Even Chucky, the mischievous killer doll, has Hackensack ties, with the city serving as both his hometown and burial place in the “Chucky” franchise. Today, Hackensack embraces its multifaceted identity. It’s a place where historic homes on expansive lots coexist with modern high-rises. The Hackensack University Medical Center is a cornerstone of the community. The city offers a variety of dining experiences, from Sofia’s Mediterranean Grille to the Italian flavors of Rugova. Alementary Brewing Co, Hackensack’s first microbrewery, adds a modern touch to the city’s vibrant tapestry. From its Lenni Lenape roots to its modern dynamism, Hackensack is a city that continues to evolve. It offers a blend of history, culture, and modern life.