Mystery shrouds the name Sewaren. Here in this New Jersey village, two compelling stories intertwine. One whispers of Dutch settlers, drawn to the fertile lands along the Arthur Kill. They named their haven “Zeewaren,” meaning “sea wares,” a testament to the bounty they found. Another tale speaks of a prominent family, the Boyntons, who owned much of the waterfront in Sewaren’s resort days. Their Sewaren Land & Water Club was a social hub, a gathering place for the community. Some believe the village took its name from this influential family. Sewaren, whether born of Dutch practicality or a family’s legacy, boasts a rich history. In the early to mid-1800s, sea captains like John Holton farmed the land. The landscape, once a tapestry of farms, trees, and marshlands, transformed with the arrival of industry. Shell Oil Company arrived in 1928, promising jobs and progress. The generating station, built between 1947 and 1951, further cemented Sewaren’s industrial identity. The old Sewaren House Hotel, once a grand lodging for summer vacationers, faded into memory. Yet, the spirit of community persists. The Matthew Jago School #28 educates Sewaren’s children, while the Woodbridge Police and Fire Departments ensure their safety. Sewaren, a small village with a big history, continues to evolve, a blend of industry and community on the shores of the Arthur Kill.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to