In 1669 King Charles II granted Woodbridge Township its charter. This marked the beginning of Woodbridge Township the oldest original township in New Jersey. It was settled earlier in 1664. The name is likely a tribute to Reverend John Woodbridge of Massachusetts. Another theory suggests it’s named after a town in Suffolk England.
Woodbridge Township’s history is rich with industry and innovation. Early settlers established businesses serving their neighbors. Jonathan Dunham built New Jersey’s first gristmill in 1670. This mill was crucial to the local economy. The flowing waters of Papiak Creek powered it. The millstones are now on display outside the Dunham House.
The 19th century brought significant growth. Clay mining and brick-making boomed. John French received land for supplying bricks in 1670. By 1876 Woodbridge produced a million bricks yearly. The Valentine Brick Company became renowned for its high-quality fire bricks. These bricks were shipped throughout the country.
Slavery was part of Woodbridge’s early history. The Dutch and English traded African slaves. The colonial government encouraged this practice. In 1704 a slave code prohibited slaves and free blacks from owning property. Gradual emancipation laws were passed in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. However these laws had limitations. Enslaved people faced extended apprenticeships even after nominal freedom.
The Civil War impacted Woodbridge. Citizens struggled with national divisions over slavery. Woodbridge men fought for the Union. The township raised funds to offer enlistment bounties. A total of 164 Woodbridge men served. One was William C Berry a First Lieutenant killed in action. The features of the soldier on the Township’s Soldiers and Sailor’s Monument may resemble him.
The growth of Woodbridge necessitated government services and law enforcement. Constables initially enforced the law. In 1895 Patrick Cullinane became the last constable and the first police officer. Crime was minimal. Early police focused on minor infractions. They even organized chain gangs for vagrants.
Woodbridge also developed modern utilities. The American Union Telegraph Company strung lines. Main Street was macadamized in 1888. The Carteret Water Company provided water to Carteret and five fire hydrants. The Woodbridge and Sewaren Electric Street Railway Company built a line to Boynton Beach.
By the end of the 1800s modern marvels arrived. The Middlesex Water Company supplied Woodbridge with water. The first bond issue for street paving was approved in 1897. This included culverts and drains. Electricity and telephones were added as the 20th century approached.
The official seal of Woodbridge Township symbolizes the town’s past. The kiln represents the ceramics industry. Mining tools represent clay mining. A ship’s wheel represents the Arthur Kill’s importance to commerce and recreation.
Sewaren became a popular seaside resort. The Sewaren House hotel attracted wealthy Manhattanites. Boynton Beach was another popular resort. It offered a wide range of activities and was known for its dance pavilion. The advent of the automobile reduced Sewaren’s popularity as a resort.
Woodbridge’s story is one of continuous transformation. From its colonial beginnings to its modern development Woodbridge shows resilience and adaptability. Its rich history reflects the complexities of American life. Its legacy of industry community and innovation continues.