Elizabeth Guzenski

Washington Township, Morris County Elizabeth Guzenski

Washington Township, Morris County is situated on the south branch of the Raritan River. This area was originally home to the Lenni-Lenape tribe. In early 1700s, immigrants came from Germany, Holland, and England to settle the area now known as Schooley's Mountain and Fox Hill. The rich, fertile soil of the south branch of the Raritan River gave them opportunity for successful agricultural endeavors, the main source of livelihood for many generations. Small villages grew to have their own stores, churches, schools, gristmills, and post offices. The introduction of the Jersey Central Railroad in 1876 helped the quarry and iron ore mine industries flourish. Schooley's Mountain was a major resort due to the mineral springs, with visitors such as Ulysses S. Grant and Thomas Edison. In 1974, Schooley's Mountain County Park was opened to provide recreational opportunities to the community. Washington Township, Morris County showcases the rich agricultural, industrial, and recreational history of this New Jersey Skylands community.