“Diversity is South Orange’s most appealing quality.” That’s what residents say about this jewel of Essex County. South Orange is a village located only 17 miles from New York City. Let’s explore what makes South Orange so special.
South Orange is known for its historic charm. The village offers a mix of city living and suburban tranquility. You will notice the sidewalks with working gas lamps. These lamps add to the unique atmosphere of South Orange.
The downtown area is thriving. There are beautiful parks and a performing arts center. This is known as SOPAC. South Orange also has residential areas with Tudor Colonial and Victorian homes. Gracious rental residences are also available.
Getting to South Orange is easy. New Jersey Transit Mid-Town Direct service goes to Manhattan. Both Mountain and South Orange stations serve the village. In town bus routes are available. Taxi service is also an option. There is both residential and public parking. South Orange is also close to major state highways.
South Orange and Maplewood share a school district. There is one high school. Two middle schools and six elementary schools serve the community. Several private day and pre-schools are also available. Seton Hall University is located in South Orange.
The history of South Orange dates back to 1666. On May 21 the first settlers sailed to New Jersey. They came from Connecticut and founded Newark. Some settlers moved toward the Orange Mountains. They sought better farmland. These settlers created what later became South Orange.
The paths they used were Indian paths. These paths connected to the Minisnk trail. This was one of the earliest Lenni Lenape paths. By 1776 Newark was a thriving town. South Orange was still very small.
In the early 1800s New York businessmen started coming to South Orange. The town began to change. It shifted from an agrarian community to a suburban one. By 1869 South Orange had four country stores. There was also a drug store selling periodicals and ice cream. Numerous beer taverns and two butchers served the area. Fifteen trains a day passed through South Orange. They were on their way to Newark.
The businessmen wanted to escape the hectic city life. They also came for the open land and clean air. After the Civil War another wave of New Yorkers arrived. The Township of South Orange included several areas. These were South Orange Montrose Jefferson Village Maplewood and Middleville. The total population was 3500.
Some South Orange residents wanted to break away. They disagreed with certain laws. They believed forming their own village would be better. Most residents in the southern part were content with their pastoral life. The northern residents thought including them would defeat the motion. As a result the southern area was not included in the plan.
The vote to create the village passed by a narrow margin. It was only 14 votes. This special election occurred on May 18 1869. It was held by “the voters of the Village of South Orange.”
The charter was sent to the New Jersey State Legislature. It officially became law on March 25 1869. The act was titled “Act to Incorporate the Village of South in the County of Essex.” The charter was passed by the Legislature on April 4 1872. Governor Parker refused to sign the charter. He objected to the Governor appointing the police justice. He believed the people should elect their own officials. Despite this the charter became law anyway.
South Orange continues to evolve. It balances historic charm with modern living. The gas lamps the diverse community and the convenient location make it unique. As you explore remember the rich history. Think about the people who shaped this village. South Orange offers a blend of the past and present.