Before South Amboy even existed the Lenape Native American Tribe called this area Ompoge meaning level ground. South Amboy’s story begins long before its official founding. It was a vital location. It connected Lower New York Bay and Philadelphia. First stagecoaches then railroads connected these crucial areas. South Amboy became a crucial port. Imagine Dutch fishermen settling here calling it Radford’s Ferry. This small settlement would eventually grow into a city. It was strategically important to protect New Amsterdam from the British.
South Amboy’s strategic location meant it grew rapidly. The railroad was crucial to this growth. The Stevens family brought the John Bull steam engine here from England. This engine played a part in establishing the Camden & Amboy Railroad around 1831. This railroad fueled South Amboy’s growth and expansion.
However South Amboy’s history wasn’t all progress. Two devastating ammunition explosions rocked the city. The first happened in 1918 during World War I. This was at the Gillespie Shell Loading Plant. The second explosion occurred in 1950 at the Healing Lighterage Company. Both events tragically took many lives and caused widespread damage. Even today debris from these explosions still surfaces occasionally.
Despite these tragedies South Amboy persevered. The Great Beds Lighthouse built in 1880 stands as a testament to this. This majestic structure is easily visible from the bay. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008. South Amboy evolved from a small Dutch settlement to a bustling port town. It became a city in 1908. It continues to thrive today.
South Amboy’s unique past shaped its present. It’s a city that overcame tragedy. It grew from its strategic location. The legacy of its railroads and its resilient people are unforgettable. Today South Amboy boasts rich history and a vibrant community. The city continues its growth and prosperity. Its captivating history and scenic location make it a fascinating place to visit and explore.