This article on the history of Jersey City, New Jersey is brought to you by the Jersey City DWI lawyers at Levow DWI Law, P.C..
Jersey City is the second-most populous city in the state of New Jersey and the largest city in Hudson County. On the east, it is bounded by the Hudson River and on the west by the Hackensack River. This city, which is part of the New York metropolitan area, has a rich history.
Jersey City: Who Were The First Inhabitants?
Long before any European reached American shores, the Lenape lived in the area that is now called Jersey City. In 1609, Henry Hudson landed his ship in Sandy Hook and at additional spots in the North River. He surveyed the area and met the local inhabitants before moving on to the land that is now called Albany.
In 1623, the New Amsterdam province was founded by the Dutch. Knight Michiel Reiniersz Pauw, a director of the Dutch West India Company was given a land grant if he could ensure that he would establish a settlement of at least fifty people within four years. He purchased land from the Lenape that is now Hoboken and Jersey City. Pauw, however, failed to meet the terms of the agreement and the land was given back to the Dutch West India Company in 1633. Although Pauw failed to meet the terms, small farms were scattered throughout the area and the population did grow.
The British and the Dutch fought for control of the land with the British finally regaining control as part of the agreement at the end of the Dutch War in 1674.
The Revolutionary War
Although the British kept control of Jersey City throughout the Revolutionary War, one small raid boosted American spirits. Henry Lee stormed British troops and aggressively pushed them back before he has his troops withdraw. Although this raid wasn't of military significance, it gave American supporters hope.
Following the end of the war, Jersey City became an important communication and transportation center because of its close proximity to New York.
Jersey City During The 19th, 20th, and 21st Centuries
As an important transportation center, Jersey City installed docks, railroads, highways, and bridges during the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. Today, millions of people travel through Jersey City on a weekly basis thanks to its mass transit connections to Manhattan. The city is also an important area for manufacturing and distribution.
Redevelopment near the waterfront resulted in Jersey City becoming one of the largest centers of banking and finance in the entire United States! Locals now call the area "Wall Street West".
Jersey City is also home to New Jersey City University and Saint Peter's University.
Consider Living In Jersey City
Are you thinking about relocating? Consider Jersey City! With so much to do and great places to eat, you'll never be bored. Come to visit and learn more about why nearly 250,000 make Jersey City their home.
