Once known as West Hackensack, Maywood has a story etched in time. Today, we explore its rich past. Maywood’s origins trace back to the 17th century. Dutch settlers began building homes and farms here. This area later became part of New Barbados Township. In 1871, it joined Midland Township.
The 19th century brought rapid railroad expansion. The New Jersey Midland Railway built a station in 1872. It was located along Maywood Avenue. The railroad planned to name it West Hackensack. But locals persuaded the company to use Maywood. This name was already informally used for the area.
An auction of 700 lots followed on September 25th. These lots surrounded the rail lines and depots. This event spurred Maywood’s early growth. The station also housed the U.S. Post Office until about 1920. Passenger service continued until 1966.
Residents voted to incorporate the area in 1894. This gave birth to the Borough of Maywood. The rail station still stands today. It is a historical site restored by the Maywood Station Historical Committee. It operates as a museum. The National Park Service added it to the National Registry of Historic Places in 2003.
Other historic places in Maywood are also listed. These include the Romeyn-Oldis-Brinkerhoff House and the Romine-Van Voorhis House.
Maywood is among the smallest municipalities in Bergen County and New Jersey. It covers just 1.287 square miles. Despite its size, it is densely populated. The 2010 U.S. Census Bureau recorded 9,555 residents. The population has remained relatively steady. It experienced booms in the early 20th century. A population loss occurred in the 1970s.
Maywood is nestled between Paramus and Hackensack. It preserves its small-town feel. Residents enjoy tree-lined streets. They have easy access to New York City. This is possible by car or NJ Transit bus service.
The Borough of Maywood is governed by Mayor Richard Bolan. The borough council is led by President Jacqueline DeMuro. Daily business is managed by administrator Adrian Febre.
The Maywood Police Department formed soon after the borough’s incorporation in 1894. It started with one officer. Now, it has 21 law enforcement professionals. The Maywood Fire Department is led by Chief John McManus. It is staffed entirely by volunteers.
Maywood Public Schools operate two facilities. The Memorial School is for Pre-K through 3rd grade. The Maywood Avenue School serves grades 4 through 8.
Inside Jersey magazine named Maywood the second-best place to retire in the state in 2012. This was due to easy access to medical facilities, a low crime rate, and public transportation.
The Maywood Public Library found its first home in 1951. It was in the original borough office building. The library moved to its current location in 1966. Today, the library boasts over 75,000 volumes.
The Hackbarth Foundation supports the library greatly. James Hackbarth bequeathed a trust to the library in honor of his wife, Pauline. The foundation funds capital improvements and scholarships. It also supports arts programs.
Maywood’s story is one of growth, community, and preservation. From its Dutch roots to its modern amenities, Maywood offers a unique blend of history and progress. As we conclude our tour, remember the layers of time that have shaped this charming borough.