Folks:
I was not sure in what forum to place this text, so I chose the “Ghost Towns and Forgotten Places” forum for lack of better location. I may extract some additional text from this book in the future.
Extracted from Historical Collections of New Jersey: Past and Present: Containing a General Collection of the Most Interesting Facts, Traditions, Biographical Sketches, Anecdotes, Etc., Relating to the History and Antiquities with Geographical Descriptions of All Important Places in the State, and the State Census of All the Towns in 1865. by John W. Barber and Henry Howe, New Haven, Connecticut, 1868, pages 517-531.
Till within a very few years past this portion of the country was considered as a barren region of little value, there being on many square miles not a single inhabitant, but a place where “deer, foxes, and rabbits were abundant.” In the more interior parts where flourishing villages are now being established, formerly none dwelt but the “charcoal-burner in his comfortless hut, surrounded by squalid, ignorant women—half-naked and half-savage children, and wholly savage dogs.” The immense forests of pines in this section were of little value till the introduction of steam navigation which created a demand for fuel, so that these lands rose from ten cents to five dollars per acre. When the pines were cut off, oaks sprung up, and often when the oaks were cut down, pines again succeeded. These lands when cut over required a period of about twenty years before they became valuable again for fuel, etc. Instances have been known where these lands were given up as worthless, after the wood has been taken off.
The first movement of importance in reclaiming this “barren region” was made by Messrs. Landis & Bvrnes, of Pennsylvania, who, in 1858, purchased 25,000 acres lying about 30 or 35 miles southeast of Philadelphia at Hammonton, where now passes the Camden and Atlantic Railway. In 1861, Charles K. Landis, the first named in the firm, sold out his interest to his partner, who purchased another tract some 18 or 20 miles to the south-west, about 40 miles from Philadelphia, to a place now called Vineland, for the purpose of selling it out in small cheap farms to actual settlers.
The soil of Central New Jersey is found to be most admirably adapted for the cultivation of small fruits and vegetables, and, according to present appearances, is destined to be the garden-spot of the Atlantic States. The principal fruits now cultivated are strawberries, grapes, peaches, pears, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries, with sweet potatoes and Indian corn. In short, all the main grains which go to sustain life, wheat, rye, clover, &c., can all be cultivated with success. The outward appearance of the soil, consisting of what seems to be white sand, is quite forbidding, but is found to be in most places underlaid by an impervious clay subsoil which retains the moisture and thus renders it productive.
The great fertilizers in use are the beds of muck and marl, found on hand in almost every section. This last substance, which is, it is believed, yet to be of the utmost importance to the cultivation of the soil, is found in beds apparently inexhaustible. The belt, or strip of land under which these marl-beds are found, extend obliquely across the State from Sandy Hook to Salem, in length about ninety miles, and fourteen miles in breadth at its eastern extremity and six miles at its western ; its area being nine hundred square miles, or 576,000 acres.
One of the superior advantages possessed by the lower counties of New Jersey, is the mildness of the climate during the winter. This has often proved very beneficial to those who have suffered from the rigorous climate and sudden changes so prevalent in the more northern States. The climate of Central New Jersey is similar to that of Middle Virginia and Kentucky. Strawberries sometimes ripen before the first of June, about three weeks before they do in the more northern States. In Cape May county, the southern extremity of the State, early vegetables are ready for market as soon as if grown in the favored districts of Virginia.
The situation of Central New Jersey, with regard to a market for her productions, is absolutely unrivaled by any place on the Continent. She has an outlet for her products, and her facilities for transportation are superior to all other districts, and a person dwelling in any part of this section will, by railroads now built, and in the course of construction, be able to visit New York, the great commercial emporium of the nation, and return again in the course of twenty four hours.
HAMMONTON.
The town of Hammonton, formerly a part of the townships of Mullica and Hamilton, in Atlantic county, was incorporated March 23d, 1866. Being situated in the central part of that section of what is designated in this work as Central New Jersey, and, in some respects, it may be considered as its capital. The township is about 11½ miles long and 4½ in breadth, and contains about 33,000 acres. The new settlement commenced in 1858 by C. K. Landis & E. J. Byrnes. The settlers are mostly from New England, who cultivate at the present time 1,000 acres for strawberries ; 400 for blackberries, 200 for pear trees, 100 for grapes, and 100 for raspberries, in addition, other acres for farm products. During the strawberry season of 1867, from 5 to 7 car loads of this fruit were daily carried to the markets of New York and Philadelphia. There are in the limits of the town 4 churches—1 Methodist, 1 Presbyterian, 1 Baptist and 1 Universalist; 8 schools, 11 stores.
View at Hammonton Station, N. J.
The view annexed is one looking southward, showing the railroad, and trains passing toward Atlantic City. This spot is half way between Philadelphia and Atlantic City, each being 30 miles distant. The Hammonton House is seen on the right, the house by its side is the residence of R. J. Byrnes, a native of Philadelphia, and is the oldest structure in the place. Here Messrs. Landis & Byrnes, in 1858, commenced their operations in converting the wilderness into gardens and fruitful fields, dividing into small tracts, or lots, which a person of limited means can purchase and secure a spot where all the members of his family can be profitably employed in sustaining themselves, by their own industry, on their own land, and thus creating many comfortable and happy homes. In the central part of the engraving is seen the Hammonton station-house, a small structure, being the first erected at this place, which will probably soon be replaced by another. Hammonton station was at first designated by a lime-hogshead set among the bushes, having a board attached to it on which was marked the name of the place; on the left is the manufactory of Mr. Fay, now used as a freight-house. On the opposite side of the road, is Mr. P. S. Tilton's stone store, the next building seen east is the office of the South Jersey Republican ; about half a mile eastward are the Methodist and Presbyterian churches.
Cottage Building in Hammonton.
The above is a representation of the dwelling of Anson Green, erected about two years since, about a mile southerly from the Hammonton station. Mr. G. removed here from Michigan, but he was originally from Connecticut. He at first bought five acres of wild land, which was perhaps sufficient, when brought under proper cultivation, to obtain a comfortable living. His house, which is constructed of superior materials, cost him about five hundred dollars. It furnishes two comfortable rooms, and may be considered as a model structure for a person of very moderate means, with a small family. A small shed is constructed on the eastern side of the house, in which is a stove, &c., serving the purposes of a kitchen where cooking and washing can be performed during the summer months. The well near by, is 33 feet in depth. It was dug in about one and a half days; the well-digger having no assistance but some one to draw up the earth as it was excavated. Such is the nature of the soil through which the well is dug, that it has the appearance of solid masonry although no stone, brick, or wood, was used to prevent the earth, from caving in, except an open barrel filled in at the bottom.
Mr. G. has purchased five acres more of wild land adjoining his first purchase, and has now been through the laborious process of clearing about four acres, on which he raises strawberries, grapes, melons, sweet and other potatoes; blackberries, Indian corn, beans and other vegetables, with fruit-trees of various kinds. The process of clearing up wild lands is somewhat as follows: First, the dwarf-pine and other trees are cut down; the brush, and bushes are then gathered and burnt on the ground. The ground is then ploughed, cross-ploughed, and harrowed several times, at a cost of about 6 dollars per acre. Land in this state can be made to produce corn and potatoes. In order to cultivate strawberries and other small fruits, it is necessary to go through a laborious and expensive process of grubbing, which consists in digging up the stumps and cutting off the roots of the trees— costing, in some instances, more than the original price of the lands. In the engraving of Mr. Green’s house there is seen between it and the street in front, a small strawberry patch, interspersed with small growing peach and pear trees. The strawberry plants are set in hills 1 foot apart and in rows distant from each other about 3 feet.
Vineland.
Central Part of Vineland, N. J.
The Vineland tract is located mainly in the county of Cumberland, but extends into the counties of Atlantic, and Gloucester, State of New Jersey, including an area of 50 square miles, or 32,000 acres. The city of Vineland, in the central part, is in the county of Cumberland, on the line of the West Jersey Railroad, 30 miles south from Philadelphia, and was founded by Charles K. Landis, a native of Lancaster, Pa., in 1861. The annexed view was taken upon Landis Avenue, looking eastward. On the right, is seen part of the Railroad Station-House, and the Hotel beyond. On the left, is seen the Post Office building, the house of Mr. Landis, the founder of the place; the printing office of the Vineland Weekly, published by Messrs. Crockers, the Mechanics’ Hall, the Methodist Church with its spire, with the Presbyterian Church by its side, are seen in the distance, on Landis Avenue, a magnificent road, hard and dry, ten miles in extent.
Vineland received its name from Solon Robinson, Esq., who visited the tract at an early period, who, at the time of his visit, observed numerous vines growing in a wilderness state. The face of the country is undulating or rolling; sandstone is found on the tract, affording an excellent building material. In some parts, clay is found of superior quality for the manufacture of pottery ware, and in others, large beds are found for making bricks, which are of the finest quality. The soil is good and easy to be worked, and produces wheat, corn, clover, and every variety of fruits and vegetables found in the Philadelphia and New York markets. It possesses peculiar advantages for the growth of fruits and vines. There are 6 steam mills for various purposes 12 stone-quarries, 3 brick-yards, a hollow-ware and other manufacturing establishments. A system of graded schools has been adopted; 14 schools are opened with an average attendance of 1,300 pupils. There is also an Academy or High School in successful operation. The New Jersey Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church have recently located their Seminary in this place. In 1867, the six religious denominations in Vineland had an average attendance at their places of worship as follows:— Protestant Episcopal, 200; Presbyterians, 350 ; Methodists, 275 ; Baptists, 200; Unitarians, 250; Friends of Progress, 175 ; two newspapers, the “Vineland Weekly,” and the “Vineland Rural,” 1 bank and 2 hotels. In 1861, there were living on the Vineland Tract twenty-Five inhabitants; in 1867, there were living on the same territory, nine thousand persons, of whom fully two-thirds have emigrated from the New England States.
House of James Wooding, Vineland, N.J.
The above is a representation of the house of Mr. J. Wooding, standing on the spot formerly known as a part of “Sharp’s Farm.” it may be considered as the starting-point of Vineland as it is the place where Mr. Landis at first resided, and where lie kept the first Post Office. The road which passes by the house is called “Main Road.” It was constructed by Lord Cornwallis during the Revolutionary war, in his military operations in this part of the country. The house stands about 400 feet back from the front fence, affording a large door-yard in front, which Mr. W. has devoted to the culture of strawberries, interspersed with small fruit-trees, which create no injury during their early growth.
The following historical items are from papers in possession of the Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society, and read by the Rev. Mr. Tyler, on their sixth Anniversary, Aug. 8th, 1867:
“About the year 1820, David G. Wood purchased the western part of Vineland, in all about 16,000 acres, of the heirs and assignees above mentioned; David G. Wood conveyed the land to his brother Richard, who sold it to Charles K. Landis, the founder of Vineland, in July, 1861. That part of Vineland, east of the Panther Branch, was principally owned by the Cooper family. Mr. Landis also purchased land from Charles E. Elmer, John T. Nixon, John M. Moore, John W. Combs, and others.
“Immediately on the purchase of the Vineland tract, Mr. Landis established his office at the residence of Andrew Sharp, on Main Road. Mr. Arrott was employed as engineer, and the land laid out in systematic order on paper. At that time the only direct route from Sharp’s house to the Railroad was a foot-path, and the only one for teams was the Old Maul’s Bridge Road. On the 8th of August, at about 11 o’clock, A.M., Charles K. Landis cut the first tree on the village plat of Vineland; from it a stake was made and driven at the point of intersection of the Millville and Glassboro Railroads, and what is now Landis Avenue.
“While this was being done, Mr. Landis remarked, that from that point, in all directions, dwellings and stores would be erected, with all the conveniences of an old town; whereupon an old Jerseyman present, is said to be so surprised as to begin to veer off from the founder, expressing doubts as to his sanity. As the majority of the Jersey roads were cut only about ten feet in width, the inhabitants were greatly astonished at seeing Landis Avenue opened 100 feet wide. But notwithstanding their insinuations, the avenue was opened as far as Spring Road. Main Road was also widened and straightened the same season. The cars also stopped near where the station now stands; and, for several months, the only depot accommodations was a single plank, upon which the mail and passengers were slided from the cars to the ground. Previous to this time the nearest stations were Forest Grove, 3½ miles north and Millville, 5½ miles south.
“1862.—The Vineland Post Office was established at the Sharp Farm, one and three fourths miles from the depot, and Charles K. Landis was appointed Postmaster, who attended to the details of the office in person. During the spring of 1862, W. W. Holbrook was Assistant Postmaster. In the summer of 1862, the Post Office was removed to the second story entry of C. P. Davis’s Hotel, on the corner of Landis Avenue and the Public Square, and the duties of the office were performed by Mr. and Mrs. Packard, and afterward by C. P. Moorehouse (deaf mute). In tire summer of 1863, It was removed to the store of Wm. F. Bassett, who acted as Deputy Postmaster, until he sold out to Wm. G. Smith, our present efficient Deputy Postmaster.
“All visitors who came to view the land during the fall and winter of 1861, and spring of 1862, were accommodated at the residence of Mr. Sharp, at that time the headquarters of Mr. Landis. The house was oftentimes over-crowded, and sleeping apartments and beds were limited—numbers lodged on the stairs. The first purchaser in Vineland, was J. G. Colson, who bought 10 acres of land on the West Railroad Boulevard, above Oak Road, October 24th, 1861. The next purchaser was George L. Post, who bought 40 acres on the south-east corner of Main and Post Roads, all in the winter and spring of 1862, built the first house. A shanty, known as “Packard's Hotel” was previously erected in the fall of 1861, on Capt, Post’s premises—Capt Post’s was built by O. Packard; and on erecting the frame, Mrs. Sharp and Mrs. Post, by the polite invitation of the builder, had the honor of helping to raise the first house of any importance in Vineland.
“The first house on Landis Avenue was built by James Stuart, east of Spring Road. The first house west of the Station, on Landis Avenue, was erected by Mr. Washburn. The first building on the town plot was erected by E. W. Fletcher, in the rear of C. P Davis’ Hotel. It has since been remodeled, and is now occupied by Mr. Bancroft, jeweler (September, 1866). C. P. Davis's Hotel was the first public building erected in Vineland. It was finished in June [1862]. The following named persons also built this year [1862]:
“On Landis Avenue, J. C. Fuller, corner of Public Square; Lester Richardson, near the Station; J. C. Gerow, Hezekiah Davis, Calvin N. Sage, west of Malaga Road; O. D. Graver, near the Station; Lucius Demmon, corner of East Avenue; W. W. RUSS, J. C. Parsons, Jacob Vanvaler, Dr. Alex. Batcheler, Messrs. Holbrook, east of East Avenue; Frederic Dame, John H. Stratton, H. Z. Ellis, Rev. Brown Emerson, James Stuart, east of Main Road; Geo. L. Post, north of Landis Avenue, George Wood, John Kaufman north of Post-Road.
“On the East Avenue, Clarence Bushkirk, James M’Mahan, north of Park Avenue; John Rest, corner of Oak Road; Franklin Allen, north of Oak Road; John Robbins, John Gibson, corner of Wheat Road.
“On Railroad Boulevard, Wm. F. F. Bassett, south of Chestnut Avenue.
“On Chestnut Avenue, Wm. O. H. Gunneth, near Railroad; Miss Maria P. Matthews, west of Malaga Road.
“In December of this year the main portion of the school house on Landis Avenue, near East Avenue, was built—the first school house erected on the Vineland tract.”
Hay & Co’s Glass Works, at Winslow, Camden Co.
These works, the most extensive of the kind in the State, were at first established by Wm. Coffin, jr., about the year 1831, at Winslow, then in the limits of the township of Gloucester, in Gloucester county, now a township in Camden county, which, in 1865, contained 1,473 inhabitants. These works are now owned by Hay & Co., who employ about 400 men besides some 50 or 60 boys. The works are situated nearly a mile from Winslow Station, 28 miles from Philadelphia, window-glass, and bottles for preserving fruit, are manufactured, The village connected with the establishment consists of about 150 houses, a Methodist church, an Odd Fellows Hall, and a store which transacts a business of about $160,000. The “Model Farm” of 800 acres is connected with the establishment. In 1867, 1,600 bushels of wheat were raised on it besides oats and rye, and 379 tons of hay. There is on the, premises a steam saw and grist mill, and an Artesian well 333 feet, sufficient to supply the place with water. The following account of his farm is given by Mr. Robinson, of the N. Y Tribune:
“Mr. Hay lived more than twenty years upon the land before he became aware of its productiveness. Being a “Down-Easter” he supposed sandy land unproductive. …At length, tired of buying salt-marsh hay, and hauling it fifteen miles to feed his horses and mules, he thought he would see if his land could not be made to grow a little corn, oats, rye, and possibly, a small crop of clover. We think his first attempt at farming, less than ten years ago, must have been exciting as some of the ‘big strikes’ made by gold-miners, for now [1866] he has 600 acres under cultivation.”
OCEAN COUNTY.
Ocean county was formed from the south part of Monmouth county, in 1850, and it was all originally included in the township of Shrewsbury. Its extreme length, from north to south, is about forty miles, and its average breadth about half that distance. It is bounded north by Monmouth county, east by the Atlantic ocean, and Westerly by Burlington county. The county is divided into 7 townships, viz: Brick, Jackson, Plumstead, Union, Dover, Manchester, and Stafford.
This county in comprised within the great pine region, which will soon become one of the valuable parts of the State; even its swamp lands, which have heretofore been considered as almost worthless, are now esteemed more valuable than most of the dry lands, on account of their adaptation to the culture of cranberries. Till quite recently the sparse population was located near the sea coast. The number of inhabitants, according to the census of 1860, was 10,032, the number of farms 379, the cash value of which was $2,318,800. According to the State census of 1865, the population was 14,262.
DOVER.
This township was first formed from Shrewsbury in 1767.
Eastern View of Public Buildings at Tom’s River.
The flourishing village of Tom’s River, about 4 miles from Barnegat Bay, derives its name from the river, or rather bay, which sets up from Barnegat Bay. It is said that this river received its name from Capt. William Tom, who came to this country with the English expedition under Col. Richard Nichols, which conquered the Dutch at New Amsterdam (now New York), in August 1664; Capt. Tom having rendered valuable services in the expedition, he was intrusted by the authorities at New York with the management of their affairs on Delaware river and Bay for several years. It appears that Capt. Tom was one of the most prominent and trustworthy men among the settlers, from the time of the coming of the English, to his decease, on January 12th, 1678. In the performance of die various duties assigned him, he was obliged to spend much time in visiting various places in New Jersey. He was among the first white men to cross the State through the wilderness to New York. He was on good terms with the Indians, and it is not at all unlikely that lie was the first white man who passed down Tom’s River to the waters of the ocean, and selected the site for the town which now bears his name.
Tom’s River Village, the county-seat of Ocean county, is pleasantly situated at the head of a small bay near the confluence of several small streams, which water the northern part of the county. Vessels of 5 or 6 feet draft can come up to the wharf, and steamboat navigation has commenced. There are in the place 1 Presbyterian and one Methodist church, a Court House, 1 Bank, 3 public houses, 5 mercantile stores, 1 printing office, issuing a weekly newspaper, and about 1,500 inhabitants. In the engraving the Presbyterian church is seen on the right; the Court House and the Methodist church on the left. A branch railroad from Manchester connects this village with the Raritan and Delaware Railroad, 7 miles distant.
Brick.
The township of Brick, constituted in 1850, comprises the northeastern section of Ocean county. It had, according to the U. S. census of 1860, a population of 1,835. It had 4,088 acres of improved land, and 7,631 unimproved. Cash value of the farms in the township, $361,200. By the State census of 1865, the population was 1,932.
Central part of Bricksburg, N. J.
Bricksburg is 44 miles south from New York, and by the direct land road, 9 miles from Tom's River Village, the county seat, and 26 miles from Port Monmouth, on Sandy Hook Bay, near the south line of Monmouth county. On the right of the engraving is seen the two public houses now in the village—first the Bricksburg House, the next the Ocean House, beyond which is erected a large building, the upper story of which is to be used as a public hall; on the opposite side of the street is the Post Office. On the extreme left is seen the Station House, from which, in addition to the passenger trains, two market trains daily leave this place for New York, and the same number for Philadelphia, 65 miles—all the way by cars to Philadelphia in two and a half hours. In the distance is seen the upper portion of part of the buildings connected with the Bergen Iron Works. This, with other manufacturing establishments, are situated in a small valley by a long and narrow lake, giving nearly a 200 horse power for manufacturing purposes. The rolling land, somewhat unusual for this section of the State, gives variety and beauty for building sites.
About 50 acres are reserved for a public park connected with a drive of over two miles in extent. The railroad station is the shipping place for farm and garden products for miles around; also for great quantities of fish and oysters from the sea and bay. The church building seen on the right of the view is now occupied by the Methodists and Presbyterians. A large number of new buildings are now being erected in the place. The oldest structure in the place is believed to be the “Mansion House” seen among the trees at the end of the street, belonging to the Iron Company. The first settlement in the village of Bricksburg is said to have been caused by the location of a furnace stack, where the iron ore found in the neighboring country was smelted, and where cannonballs were made in the war with Great Britain in 1812. In 1831 Mr. J. W. Brick, now deceased, bought the property, and at once proceeded to erect suitable buildings to carry on the making of water-pipes. To smelt the bog iron-ore so abundant at that time, it was necessary to use a large amount of charcoal—and accordingly the extensive tracts of land now owned by the “Bricksburg Land and Improvement Company,” were purchased. Upwards of 400,000 bushels were required annually. In 1867, it was ascertained that the ore-beds were becoming exhausted, as well as the timber from which the coal was made, and it was determined to tear down the furnace stack, &c., and erect the building which, together with others recently erected, constitute, the “Bergen Iron Works” of the present day. These works were the central point for many years, in this vicinity, and the name of the original proprietor has been perpetuated by the name of the town and village.
JACKSON.
This township is bounded on the east by Brick, on the west by Plumstead, on the south by Dover, and on the north by Monmouth county. Jackson was originally set off from Monmouth county in 1844. Population in 1855, 1,221; in 1860,1,606, and in 1865, 1,497.
PLUMSTEAD.
Plumstead comprises the north-west corner of Ocean county, bounded northerly by Monmouth county, westerly by Burlington county, south by Dover, and on the east by Jackson. Population in 1850, 1,613; in 1855, 1,778; in 1860, 2,003; in 1865, 2,492. New Egypt, in the north-west corner of this township, has for a long time been known as a flourishing place, distinguished for the wealth and enterprise of its inhabitants.
View in the Central Part of Manchester
Manchester is a township recently organized, the central part of which is 7 miles from Tom’s River, the county seat. Population, in 1865, was 1,054. The annexed view shows the Manchester station on the Raritan and Delaware Railway, 57 miles from New York, as seen looking south. The village at present is one of railroad workshops, with neat cottage residences for the workmen, a church and school house, two or three stores, and as many taverns. In the central part is seen in the distance the railroad train coming from Philadelphia, on the left, the branch railroad for Tom’s River, connecting at this point. The village is surrounded by a forest—an unsubdued native wilderness— only broken here and there by a few little openings.
“The Manchester tract” (says the agricultural editor of the N. Y. Tribune), “embraces 25,000 acres, upon which the art of the husbandman has never been exercised—adjoining it on the north is the Bergen iron Works tract of 15,000 acres—on the east, extending several miles beyond Tom’s River, lies a tract of over 20,000 acres, owned by A. P. Stanton, of that place. . . . South-east of that tract lies the ‘Rutherford tract’ of 80,000, acres; and south-west, the Hurrey tract of 10,000, and several other large ones which fill in between the Manchester tracts and Patterson tract of 30,000 lying around the Atsion Station, making together in one compact body, taking Manchester for the centre, more than 100,000 acres of unbroken forest. . . . Nearly all of the present growth is the second, third, or fourth—often the latter—crop of timber this land has borne, since white men dispossessed the red ones—‘the savages,’ who did not cut and burn trees.” … “What I have said” (continues the writer), “of the forest around Manchester, must be understood as covering only a small portion of what may be found in south and West Jersey.”
STAFFORD.
This township comprising the southernmost point of Ocean county, is bounded westerly by Burlington county line, north by Dover, easterly by bays of the Atlantic. Population in 1865 was 1,984. The patent creating the township of Stafford is dated March 3d, 1749, and was issued in the reign of George II., and is signed by Governor Belcher, who was then Governor of the province of New Jersey. This document, written on parchment, is still in good preservation.
UNION.
Union was constituted a township in 1846. It was formerly within the limits of Stafford township, when in Monmouth county, bounded on the north by Dover. Population in 1865, was 2,041.
Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City, N. J.
ATLANTIC CITY is a recent township, comprising Absecom beach in the township of Egg Harbor, and may be considered as an island six miles from main land of the Jersey coast, from which it is separated by the great Thoroughfare Inlet and the salt meadows of Absecom. It is 60 miles distant from Philadelphia and 40 by water from Cape May Island. By the State census of 1865, the number of the regular inhabitants was 746. The accompanying view was taken at the railroad station looking southeast toward the sea. On the right, somewhat in the distance, is the United States, one of the most magnificent hotels in the country; between it and the Mansion House is seen the light-house, which, viewed at a distance, when approaching the city, towers up far beyond all surrounding objects. In the extreme distance beyond, the Methodist church on the left, the ocean is seen which, when agitated by winds and storms, the foaming billows roll toward the shore, presenting a sublime and impressive scene. Atlantic City is becoming a popular watering-place; it has 80 hotels besides quite a number of private cottages. There are in the place 4 churches: 1 Methodist, 1 Presbyterian, 1 Episcopal and 1 Catholic—the Friends, at present, meet at a private house. The city is occupied as a watering-place about three months during the summer; at the height of the warm season, some 20,000 people seeking health, have been known to be here at one time.
Egg HARBOR CITY, on the Camden and Atlantic Railway, 19 miles NW of Atlantic City, was commenced in 1854. The city is regularly laid out, having broad avenues planted with trees. The place contains 3 breweries, 2 brickyards, 6 hotels, &c. The population is about 2,000 Germans., whose principal business is the cultivation of grapes.
SQUAN VILLAGE is situated on the south-east corner of Monmouth county, bounded on the south by Squan River, on the Atlantic ocean. It is about 9 miles from the railroad station. There is in the village 3 churches, 3 stores and two hotels, and about a mile out of the place a Friends meeting-house. Within a mile of the village there is as good bathing places as any on the coast. There are several boarding-houses here and at Point Pleasant on the opposite side of the river.
CRANBERRY CULTURE.
The culture of the cranberry, it is believed, will yet become one of the most important branches of the small fruit culture in Central New Jersey. The situation of the lands, its soil, &c. is admirably fitted for this purpose The extent of the sea coast; the low swampy lands bordering on the streams flowing into the Atlantic; and the numerous winter ponds or “slushes” found in the interior, (which have been considered as worthless and incapable of cultivation) are, it is believed, destined to become the most valuable lands in the State.
The whole business of arranging, preparing, and using the ground for cranberries, is very much like that of a rice plantation. It SEEMS almost indispensable for the successful cultivation of the cranberry, that the lands should be overflowed at certain seasons. In order to accomplish this, it is necessary that the ground should be perfectly leveled; the brush, bogs, and other encumbrances should be cleared off, dykes erected, &c. This is sometimes a very expensive process, costing in some Instances from $400 to $600 per acre. The winter ponds, or “slushes,” however, require but little expense. In the winter these ponds accumulate large bodies of water, to the depth of one or two feet, for which then is no outlet; in the Summer they become entirely dry by evaporation, and nothing grows upon them but grass, which can be removed at little expense. One great advantage the cranberry has over most other small fruits, it can be kept in its natural state for a long period without injury or decay. In some parts of the world it is extensively used as coloring matter in the manufacture of fancy goods.
Best regards,
Jerseyman
I was not sure in what forum to place this text, so I chose the “Ghost Towns and Forgotten Places” forum for lack of better location. I may extract some additional text from this book in the future.
Extracted from Historical Collections of New Jersey: Past and Present: Containing a General Collection of the Most Interesting Facts, Traditions, Biographical Sketches, Anecdotes, Etc., Relating to the History and Antiquities with Geographical Descriptions of All Important Places in the State, and the State Census of All the Towns in 1865. by John W. Barber and Henry Howe, New Haven, Connecticut, 1868, pages 517-531.
CENTRAL NEW JERSEY.
NEW JERSEY was formerly described as being in two parts, East and West New Jersey…. The pine regions of the State, which are here designated as Central New Jersey, extend over both East and "West New Jersey, comprise almost the whole of the southern part, and parts of the counties of Middlesex and Monmouth. This extensive tract, a large part of which is situated in the central part of the State, comprising about one-third of its territory, may with propriety be denominated as CENTRAL NEW JERSEY.Till within a very few years past this portion of the country was considered as a barren region of little value, there being on many square miles not a single inhabitant, but a place where “deer, foxes, and rabbits were abundant.” In the more interior parts where flourishing villages are now being established, formerly none dwelt but the “charcoal-burner in his comfortless hut, surrounded by squalid, ignorant women—half-naked and half-savage children, and wholly savage dogs.” The immense forests of pines in this section were of little value till the introduction of steam navigation which created a demand for fuel, so that these lands rose from ten cents to five dollars per acre. When the pines were cut off, oaks sprung up, and often when the oaks were cut down, pines again succeeded. These lands when cut over required a period of about twenty years before they became valuable again for fuel, etc. Instances have been known where these lands were given up as worthless, after the wood has been taken off.
The first movement of importance in reclaiming this “barren region” was made by Messrs. Landis & Bvrnes, of Pennsylvania, who, in 1858, purchased 25,000 acres lying about 30 or 35 miles southeast of Philadelphia at Hammonton, where now passes the Camden and Atlantic Railway. In 1861, Charles K. Landis, the first named in the firm, sold out his interest to his partner, who purchased another tract some 18 or 20 miles to the south-west, about 40 miles from Philadelphia, to a place now called Vineland, for the purpose of selling it out in small cheap farms to actual settlers.
The soil of Central New Jersey is found to be most admirably adapted for the cultivation of small fruits and vegetables, and, according to present appearances, is destined to be the garden-spot of the Atlantic States. The principal fruits now cultivated are strawberries, grapes, peaches, pears, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries, with sweet potatoes and Indian corn. In short, all the main grains which go to sustain life, wheat, rye, clover, &c., can all be cultivated with success. The outward appearance of the soil, consisting of what seems to be white sand, is quite forbidding, but is found to be in most places underlaid by an impervious clay subsoil which retains the moisture and thus renders it productive.
The great fertilizers in use are the beds of muck and marl, found on hand in almost every section. This last substance, which is, it is believed, yet to be of the utmost importance to the cultivation of the soil, is found in beds apparently inexhaustible. The belt, or strip of land under which these marl-beds are found, extend obliquely across the State from Sandy Hook to Salem, in length about ninety miles, and fourteen miles in breadth at its eastern extremity and six miles at its western ; its area being nine hundred square miles, or 576,000 acres.
One of the superior advantages possessed by the lower counties of New Jersey, is the mildness of the climate during the winter. This has often proved very beneficial to those who have suffered from the rigorous climate and sudden changes so prevalent in the more northern States. The climate of Central New Jersey is similar to that of Middle Virginia and Kentucky. Strawberries sometimes ripen before the first of June, about three weeks before they do in the more northern States. In Cape May county, the southern extremity of the State, early vegetables are ready for market as soon as if grown in the favored districts of Virginia.
The situation of Central New Jersey, with regard to a market for her productions, is absolutely unrivaled by any place on the Continent. She has an outlet for her products, and her facilities for transportation are superior to all other districts, and a person dwelling in any part of this section will, by railroads now built, and in the course of construction, be able to visit New York, the great commercial emporium of the nation, and return again in the course of twenty four hours.
HAMMONTON.
The town of Hammonton, formerly a part of the townships of Mullica and Hamilton, in Atlantic county, was incorporated March 23d, 1866. Being situated in the central part of that section of what is designated in this work as Central New Jersey, and, in some respects, it may be considered as its capital. The township is about 11½ miles long and 4½ in breadth, and contains about 33,000 acres. The new settlement commenced in 1858 by C. K. Landis & E. J. Byrnes. The settlers are mostly from New England, who cultivate at the present time 1,000 acres for strawberries ; 400 for blackberries, 200 for pear trees, 100 for grapes, and 100 for raspberries, in addition, other acres for farm products. During the strawberry season of 1867, from 5 to 7 car loads of this fruit were daily carried to the markets of New York and Philadelphia. There are in the limits of the town 4 churches—1 Methodist, 1 Presbyterian, 1 Baptist and 1 Universalist; 8 schools, 11 stores.
View at Hammonton Station, N. J.
The view annexed is one looking southward, showing the railroad, and trains passing toward Atlantic City. This spot is half way between Philadelphia and Atlantic City, each being 30 miles distant. The Hammonton House is seen on the right, the house by its side is the residence of R. J. Byrnes, a native of Philadelphia, and is the oldest structure in the place. Here Messrs. Landis & Byrnes, in 1858, commenced their operations in converting the wilderness into gardens and fruitful fields, dividing into small tracts, or lots, which a person of limited means can purchase and secure a spot where all the members of his family can be profitably employed in sustaining themselves, by their own industry, on their own land, and thus creating many comfortable and happy homes. In the central part of the engraving is seen the Hammonton station-house, a small structure, being the first erected at this place, which will probably soon be replaced by another. Hammonton station was at first designated by a lime-hogshead set among the bushes, having a board attached to it on which was marked the name of the place; on the left is the manufactory of Mr. Fay, now used as a freight-house. On the opposite side of the road, is Mr. P. S. Tilton's stone store, the next building seen east is the office of the South Jersey Republican ; about half a mile eastward are the Methodist and Presbyterian churches.
Cottage Building in Hammonton.
The above is a representation of the dwelling of Anson Green, erected about two years since, about a mile southerly from the Hammonton station. Mr. G. removed here from Michigan, but he was originally from Connecticut. He at first bought five acres of wild land, which was perhaps sufficient, when brought under proper cultivation, to obtain a comfortable living. His house, which is constructed of superior materials, cost him about five hundred dollars. It furnishes two comfortable rooms, and may be considered as a model structure for a person of very moderate means, with a small family. A small shed is constructed on the eastern side of the house, in which is a stove, &c., serving the purposes of a kitchen where cooking and washing can be performed during the summer months. The well near by, is 33 feet in depth. It was dug in about one and a half days; the well-digger having no assistance but some one to draw up the earth as it was excavated. Such is the nature of the soil through which the well is dug, that it has the appearance of solid masonry although no stone, brick, or wood, was used to prevent the earth, from caving in, except an open barrel filled in at the bottom.
Mr. G. has purchased five acres more of wild land adjoining his first purchase, and has now been through the laborious process of clearing about four acres, on which he raises strawberries, grapes, melons, sweet and other potatoes; blackberries, Indian corn, beans and other vegetables, with fruit-trees of various kinds. The process of clearing up wild lands is somewhat as follows: First, the dwarf-pine and other trees are cut down; the brush, and bushes are then gathered and burnt on the ground. The ground is then ploughed, cross-ploughed, and harrowed several times, at a cost of about 6 dollars per acre. Land in this state can be made to produce corn and potatoes. In order to cultivate strawberries and other small fruits, it is necessary to go through a laborious and expensive process of grubbing, which consists in digging up the stumps and cutting off the roots of the trees— costing, in some instances, more than the original price of the lands. In the engraving of Mr. Green’s house there is seen between it and the street in front, a small strawberry patch, interspersed with small growing peach and pear trees. The strawberry plants are set in hills 1 foot apart and in rows distant from each other about 3 feet.
Vineland.
Central Part of Vineland, N. J.
The Vineland tract is located mainly in the county of Cumberland, but extends into the counties of Atlantic, and Gloucester, State of New Jersey, including an area of 50 square miles, or 32,000 acres. The city of Vineland, in the central part, is in the county of Cumberland, on the line of the West Jersey Railroad, 30 miles south from Philadelphia, and was founded by Charles K. Landis, a native of Lancaster, Pa., in 1861. The annexed view was taken upon Landis Avenue, looking eastward. On the right, is seen part of the Railroad Station-House, and the Hotel beyond. On the left, is seen the Post Office building, the house of Mr. Landis, the founder of the place; the printing office of the Vineland Weekly, published by Messrs. Crockers, the Mechanics’ Hall, the Methodist Church with its spire, with the Presbyterian Church by its side, are seen in the distance, on Landis Avenue, a magnificent road, hard and dry, ten miles in extent.
Vineland received its name from Solon Robinson, Esq., who visited the tract at an early period, who, at the time of his visit, observed numerous vines growing in a wilderness state. The face of the country is undulating or rolling; sandstone is found on the tract, affording an excellent building material. In some parts, clay is found of superior quality for the manufacture of pottery ware, and in others, large beds are found for making bricks, which are of the finest quality. The soil is good and easy to be worked, and produces wheat, corn, clover, and every variety of fruits and vegetables found in the Philadelphia and New York markets. It possesses peculiar advantages for the growth of fruits and vines. There are 6 steam mills for various purposes 12 stone-quarries, 3 brick-yards, a hollow-ware and other manufacturing establishments. A system of graded schools has been adopted; 14 schools are opened with an average attendance of 1,300 pupils. There is also an Academy or High School in successful operation. The New Jersey Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church have recently located their Seminary in this place. In 1867, the six religious denominations in Vineland had an average attendance at their places of worship as follows:— Protestant Episcopal, 200; Presbyterians, 350 ; Methodists, 275 ; Baptists, 200; Unitarians, 250; Friends of Progress, 175 ; two newspapers, the “Vineland Weekly,” and the “Vineland Rural,” 1 bank and 2 hotels. In 1861, there were living on the Vineland Tract twenty-Five inhabitants; in 1867, there were living on the same territory, nine thousand persons, of whom fully two-thirds have emigrated from the New England States.
House of James Wooding, Vineland, N.J.
The above is a representation of the house of Mr. J. Wooding, standing on the spot formerly known as a part of “Sharp’s Farm.” it may be considered as the starting-point of Vineland as it is the place where Mr. Landis at first resided, and where lie kept the first Post Office. The road which passes by the house is called “Main Road.” It was constructed by Lord Cornwallis during the Revolutionary war, in his military operations in this part of the country. The house stands about 400 feet back from the front fence, affording a large door-yard in front, which Mr. W. has devoted to the culture of strawberries, interspersed with small fruit-trees, which create no injury during their early growth.
The following historical items are from papers in possession of the Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society, and read by the Rev. Mr. Tyler, on their sixth Anniversary, Aug. 8th, 1867:
“About the year 1820, David G. Wood purchased the western part of Vineland, in all about 16,000 acres, of the heirs and assignees above mentioned; David G. Wood conveyed the land to his brother Richard, who sold it to Charles K. Landis, the founder of Vineland, in July, 1861. That part of Vineland, east of the Panther Branch, was principally owned by the Cooper family. Mr. Landis also purchased land from Charles E. Elmer, John T. Nixon, John M. Moore, John W. Combs, and others.
“Immediately on the purchase of the Vineland tract, Mr. Landis established his office at the residence of Andrew Sharp, on Main Road. Mr. Arrott was employed as engineer, and the land laid out in systematic order on paper. At that time the only direct route from Sharp’s house to the Railroad was a foot-path, and the only one for teams was the Old Maul’s Bridge Road. On the 8th of August, at about 11 o’clock, A.M., Charles K. Landis cut the first tree on the village plat of Vineland; from it a stake was made and driven at the point of intersection of the Millville and Glassboro Railroads, and what is now Landis Avenue.
“While this was being done, Mr. Landis remarked, that from that point, in all directions, dwellings and stores would be erected, with all the conveniences of an old town; whereupon an old Jerseyman present, is said to be so surprised as to begin to veer off from the founder, expressing doubts as to his sanity. As the majority of the Jersey roads were cut only about ten feet in width, the inhabitants were greatly astonished at seeing Landis Avenue opened 100 feet wide. But notwithstanding their insinuations, the avenue was opened as far as Spring Road. Main Road was also widened and straightened the same season. The cars also stopped near where the station now stands; and, for several months, the only depot accommodations was a single plank, upon which the mail and passengers were slided from the cars to the ground. Previous to this time the nearest stations were Forest Grove, 3½ miles north and Millville, 5½ miles south.
“1862.—The Vineland Post Office was established at the Sharp Farm, one and three fourths miles from the depot, and Charles K. Landis was appointed Postmaster, who attended to the details of the office in person. During the spring of 1862, W. W. Holbrook was Assistant Postmaster. In the summer of 1862, the Post Office was removed to the second story entry of C. P. Davis’s Hotel, on the corner of Landis Avenue and the Public Square, and the duties of the office were performed by Mr. and Mrs. Packard, and afterward by C. P. Moorehouse (deaf mute). In tire summer of 1863, It was removed to the store of Wm. F. Bassett, who acted as Deputy Postmaster, until he sold out to Wm. G. Smith, our present efficient Deputy Postmaster.
“All visitors who came to view the land during the fall and winter of 1861, and spring of 1862, were accommodated at the residence of Mr. Sharp, at that time the headquarters of Mr. Landis. The house was oftentimes over-crowded, and sleeping apartments and beds were limited—numbers lodged on the stairs. The first purchaser in Vineland, was J. G. Colson, who bought 10 acres of land on the West Railroad Boulevard, above Oak Road, October 24th, 1861. The next purchaser was George L. Post, who bought 40 acres on the south-east corner of Main and Post Roads, all in the winter and spring of 1862, built the first house. A shanty, known as “Packard's Hotel” was previously erected in the fall of 1861, on Capt, Post’s premises—Capt Post’s was built by O. Packard; and on erecting the frame, Mrs. Sharp and Mrs. Post, by the polite invitation of the builder, had the honor of helping to raise the first house of any importance in Vineland.
“The first house on Landis Avenue was built by James Stuart, east of Spring Road. The first house west of the Station, on Landis Avenue, was erected by Mr. Washburn. The first building on the town plot was erected by E. W. Fletcher, in the rear of C. P Davis’ Hotel. It has since been remodeled, and is now occupied by Mr. Bancroft, jeweler (September, 1866). C. P. Davis's Hotel was the first public building erected in Vineland. It was finished in June [1862]. The following named persons also built this year [1862]:
“On Landis Avenue, J. C. Fuller, corner of Public Square; Lester Richardson, near the Station; J. C. Gerow, Hezekiah Davis, Calvin N. Sage, west of Malaga Road; O. D. Graver, near the Station; Lucius Demmon, corner of East Avenue; W. W. RUSS, J. C. Parsons, Jacob Vanvaler, Dr. Alex. Batcheler, Messrs. Holbrook, east of East Avenue; Frederic Dame, John H. Stratton, H. Z. Ellis, Rev. Brown Emerson, James Stuart, east of Main Road; Geo. L. Post, north of Landis Avenue, George Wood, John Kaufman north of Post-Road.
“On the East Avenue, Clarence Bushkirk, James M’Mahan, north of Park Avenue; John Rest, corner of Oak Road; Franklin Allen, north of Oak Road; John Robbins, John Gibson, corner of Wheat Road.
“On Railroad Boulevard, Wm. F. F. Bassett, south of Chestnut Avenue.
“On Chestnut Avenue, Wm. O. H. Gunneth, near Railroad; Miss Maria P. Matthews, west of Malaga Road.
“In December of this year the main portion of the school house on Landis Avenue, near East Avenue, was built—the first school house erected on the Vineland tract.”
Hay & Co’s Glass Works, at Winslow, Camden Co.
These works, the most extensive of the kind in the State, were at first established by Wm. Coffin, jr., about the year 1831, at Winslow, then in the limits of the township of Gloucester, in Gloucester county, now a township in Camden county, which, in 1865, contained 1,473 inhabitants. These works are now owned by Hay & Co., who employ about 400 men besides some 50 or 60 boys. The works are situated nearly a mile from Winslow Station, 28 miles from Philadelphia, window-glass, and bottles for preserving fruit, are manufactured, The village connected with the establishment consists of about 150 houses, a Methodist church, an Odd Fellows Hall, and a store which transacts a business of about $160,000. The “Model Farm” of 800 acres is connected with the establishment. In 1867, 1,600 bushels of wheat were raised on it besides oats and rye, and 379 tons of hay. There is on the, premises a steam saw and grist mill, and an Artesian well 333 feet, sufficient to supply the place with water. The following account of his farm is given by Mr. Robinson, of the N. Y Tribune:
“Mr. Hay lived more than twenty years upon the land before he became aware of its productiveness. Being a “Down-Easter” he supposed sandy land unproductive. …At length, tired of buying salt-marsh hay, and hauling it fifteen miles to feed his horses and mules, he thought he would see if his land could not be made to grow a little corn, oats, rye, and possibly, a small crop of clover. We think his first attempt at farming, less than ten years ago, must have been exciting as some of the ‘big strikes’ made by gold-miners, for now [1866] he has 600 acres under cultivation.”
OCEAN COUNTY.
Ocean county was formed from the south part of Monmouth county, in 1850, and it was all originally included in the township of Shrewsbury. Its extreme length, from north to south, is about forty miles, and its average breadth about half that distance. It is bounded north by Monmouth county, east by the Atlantic ocean, and Westerly by Burlington county. The county is divided into 7 townships, viz: Brick, Jackson, Plumstead, Union, Dover, Manchester, and Stafford.
This county in comprised within the great pine region, which will soon become one of the valuable parts of the State; even its swamp lands, which have heretofore been considered as almost worthless, are now esteemed more valuable than most of the dry lands, on account of their adaptation to the culture of cranberries. Till quite recently the sparse population was located near the sea coast. The number of inhabitants, according to the census of 1860, was 10,032, the number of farms 379, the cash value of which was $2,318,800. According to the State census of 1865, the population was 14,262.
DOVER.
This township was first formed from Shrewsbury in 1767.
Eastern View of Public Buildings at Tom’s River.
The flourishing village of Tom’s River, about 4 miles from Barnegat Bay, derives its name from the river, or rather bay, which sets up from Barnegat Bay. It is said that this river received its name from Capt. William Tom, who came to this country with the English expedition under Col. Richard Nichols, which conquered the Dutch at New Amsterdam (now New York), in August 1664; Capt. Tom having rendered valuable services in the expedition, he was intrusted by the authorities at New York with the management of their affairs on Delaware river and Bay for several years. It appears that Capt. Tom was one of the most prominent and trustworthy men among the settlers, from the time of the coming of the English, to his decease, on January 12th, 1678. In the performance of die various duties assigned him, he was obliged to spend much time in visiting various places in New Jersey. He was among the first white men to cross the State through the wilderness to New York. He was on good terms with the Indians, and it is not at all unlikely that lie was the first white man who passed down Tom’s River to the waters of the ocean, and selected the site for the town which now bears his name.
Tom’s River Village, the county-seat of Ocean county, is pleasantly situated at the head of a small bay near the confluence of several small streams, which water the northern part of the county. Vessels of 5 or 6 feet draft can come up to the wharf, and steamboat navigation has commenced. There are in the place 1 Presbyterian and one Methodist church, a Court House, 1 Bank, 3 public houses, 5 mercantile stores, 1 printing office, issuing a weekly newspaper, and about 1,500 inhabitants. In the engraving the Presbyterian church is seen on the right; the Court House and the Methodist church on the left. A branch railroad from Manchester connects this village with the Raritan and Delaware Railroad, 7 miles distant.
Brick.
The township of Brick, constituted in 1850, comprises the northeastern section of Ocean county. It had, according to the U. S. census of 1860, a population of 1,835. It had 4,088 acres of improved land, and 7,631 unimproved. Cash value of the farms in the township, $361,200. By the State census of 1865, the population was 1,932.
Central part of Bricksburg, N. J.
Bricksburg is 44 miles south from New York, and by the direct land road, 9 miles from Tom's River Village, the county seat, and 26 miles from Port Monmouth, on Sandy Hook Bay, near the south line of Monmouth county. On the right of the engraving is seen the two public houses now in the village—first the Bricksburg House, the next the Ocean House, beyond which is erected a large building, the upper story of which is to be used as a public hall; on the opposite side of the street is the Post Office. On the extreme left is seen the Station House, from which, in addition to the passenger trains, two market trains daily leave this place for New York, and the same number for Philadelphia, 65 miles—all the way by cars to Philadelphia in two and a half hours. In the distance is seen the upper portion of part of the buildings connected with the Bergen Iron Works. This, with other manufacturing establishments, are situated in a small valley by a long and narrow lake, giving nearly a 200 horse power for manufacturing purposes. The rolling land, somewhat unusual for this section of the State, gives variety and beauty for building sites.
About 50 acres are reserved for a public park connected with a drive of over two miles in extent. The railroad station is the shipping place for farm and garden products for miles around; also for great quantities of fish and oysters from the sea and bay. The church building seen on the right of the view is now occupied by the Methodists and Presbyterians. A large number of new buildings are now being erected in the place. The oldest structure in the place is believed to be the “Mansion House” seen among the trees at the end of the street, belonging to the Iron Company. The first settlement in the village of Bricksburg is said to have been caused by the location of a furnace stack, where the iron ore found in the neighboring country was smelted, and where cannonballs were made in the war with Great Britain in 1812. In 1831 Mr. J. W. Brick, now deceased, bought the property, and at once proceeded to erect suitable buildings to carry on the making of water-pipes. To smelt the bog iron-ore so abundant at that time, it was necessary to use a large amount of charcoal—and accordingly the extensive tracts of land now owned by the “Bricksburg Land and Improvement Company,” were purchased. Upwards of 400,000 bushels were required annually. In 1867, it was ascertained that the ore-beds were becoming exhausted, as well as the timber from which the coal was made, and it was determined to tear down the furnace stack, &c., and erect the building which, together with others recently erected, constitute, the “Bergen Iron Works” of the present day. These works were the central point for many years, in this vicinity, and the name of the original proprietor has been perpetuated by the name of the town and village.
JACKSON.
This township is bounded on the east by Brick, on the west by Plumstead, on the south by Dover, and on the north by Monmouth county. Jackson was originally set off from Monmouth county in 1844. Population in 1855, 1,221; in 1860,1,606, and in 1865, 1,497.
PLUMSTEAD.
Plumstead comprises the north-west corner of Ocean county, bounded northerly by Monmouth county, westerly by Burlington county, south by Dover, and on the east by Jackson. Population in 1850, 1,613; in 1855, 1,778; in 1860, 2,003; in 1865, 2,492. New Egypt, in the north-west corner of this township, has for a long time been known as a flourishing place, distinguished for the wealth and enterprise of its inhabitants.
View in the Central Part of Manchester
Manchester is a township recently organized, the central part of which is 7 miles from Tom’s River, the county seat. Population, in 1865, was 1,054. The annexed view shows the Manchester station on the Raritan and Delaware Railway, 57 miles from New York, as seen looking south. The village at present is one of railroad workshops, with neat cottage residences for the workmen, a church and school house, two or three stores, and as many taverns. In the central part is seen in the distance the railroad train coming from Philadelphia, on the left, the branch railroad for Tom’s River, connecting at this point. The village is surrounded by a forest—an unsubdued native wilderness— only broken here and there by a few little openings.
“The Manchester tract” (says the agricultural editor of the N. Y. Tribune), “embraces 25,000 acres, upon which the art of the husbandman has never been exercised—adjoining it on the north is the Bergen iron Works tract of 15,000 acres—on the east, extending several miles beyond Tom’s River, lies a tract of over 20,000 acres, owned by A. P. Stanton, of that place. . . . South-east of that tract lies the ‘Rutherford tract’ of 80,000, acres; and south-west, the Hurrey tract of 10,000, and several other large ones which fill in between the Manchester tracts and Patterson tract of 30,000 lying around the Atsion Station, making together in one compact body, taking Manchester for the centre, more than 100,000 acres of unbroken forest. . . . Nearly all of the present growth is the second, third, or fourth—often the latter—crop of timber this land has borne, since white men dispossessed the red ones—‘the savages,’ who did not cut and burn trees.” … “What I have said” (continues the writer), “of the forest around Manchester, must be understood as covering only a small portion of what may be found in south and West Jersey.”
STAFFORD.
This township comprising the southernmost point of Ocean county, is bounded westerly by Burlington county line, north by Dover, easterly by bays of the Atlantic. Population in 1865 was 1,984. The patent creating the township of Stafford is dated March 3d, 1749, and was issued in the reign of George II., and is signed by Governor Belcher, who was then Governor of the province of New Jersey. This document, written on parchment, is still in good preservation.
UNION.
Union was constituted a township in 1846. It was formerly within the limits of Stafford township, when in Monmouth county, bounded on the north by Dover. Population in 1865, was 2,041.
Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City, N. J.
ATLANTIC CITY is a recent township, comprising Absecom beach in the township of Egg Harbor, and may be considered as an island six miles from main land of the Jersey coast, from which it is separated by the great Thoroughfare Inlet and the salt meadows of Absecom. It is 60 miles distant from Philadelphia and 40 by water from Cape May Island. By the State census of 1865, the number of the regular inhabitants was 746. The accompanying view was taken at the railroad station looking southeast toward the sea. On the right, somewhat in the distance, is the United States, one of the most magnificent hotels in the country; between it and the Mansion House is seen the light-house, which, viewed at a distance, when approaching the city, towers up far beyond all surrounding objects. In the extreme distance beyond, the Methodist church on the left, the ocean is seen which, when agitated by winds and storms, the foaming billows roll toward the shore, presenting a sublime and impressive scene. Atlantic City is becoming a popular watering-place; it has 80 hotels besides quite a number of private cottages. There are in the place 4 churches: 1 Methodist, 1 Presbyterian, 1 Episcopal and 1 Catholic—the Friends, at present, meet at a private house. The city is occupied as a watering-place about three months during the summer; at the height of the warm season, some 20,000 people seeking health, have been known to be here at one time.
Egg HARBOR CITY, on the Camden and Atlantic Railway, 19 miles NW of Atlantic City, was commenced in 1854. The city is regularly laid out, having broad avenues planted with trees. The place contains 3 breweries, 2 brickyards, 6 hotels, &c. The population is about 2,000 Germans., whose principal business is the cultivation of grapes.
SQUAN VILLAGE is situated on the south-east corner of Monmouth county, bounded on the south by Squan River, on the Atlantic ocean. It is about 9 miles from the railroad station. There is in the village 3 churches, 3 stores and two hotels, and about a mile out of the place a Friends meeting-house. Within a mile of the village there is as good bathing places as any on the coast. There are several boarding-houses here and at Point Pleasant on the opposite side of the river.
CRANBERRY CULTURE.
The culture of the cranberry, it is believed, will yet become one of the most important branches of the small fruit culture in Central New Jersey. The situation of the lands, its soil, &c. is admirably fitted for this purpose The extent of the sea coast; the low swampy lands bordering on the streams flowing into the Atlantic; and the numerous winter ponds or “slushes” found in the interior, (which have been considered as worthless and incapable of cultivation) are, it is believed, destined to become the most valuable lands in the State.
The whole business of arranging, preparing, and using the ground for cranberries, is very much like that of a rice plantation. It SEEMS almost indispensable for the successful cultivation of the cranberry, that the lands should be overflowed at certain seasons. In order to accomplish this, it is necessary that the ground should be perfectly leveled; the brush, bogs, and other encumbrances should be cleared off, dykes erected, &c. This is sometimes a very expensive process, costing in some Instances from $400 to $600 per acre. The winter ponds, or “slushes,” however, require but little expense. In the winter these ponds accumulate large bodies of water, to the depth of one or two feet, for which then is no outlet; in the Summer they become entirely dry by evaporation, and nothing grows upon them but grass, which can be removed at little expense. One great advantage the cranberry has over most other small fruits, it can be kept in its natural state for a long period without injury or decay. In some parts of the world it is extensively used as coloring matter in the manufacture of fancy goods.
Best regards,
Jerseyman
