Introduction to Wayne, New Jersey
Wayne, New Jersey, in Passaic county, is 14 miles NW of Newark, New Jersey. Mid-town Manhattan is less than 20 miles away. It has a large geographic acreage. Wayne includes numerous lakes which have distinct communities built around them. The Passaic River flows through the municipality. It's part of the New York metro area.
Wayne History
The Lenni-Lenape Indians were the original inhabitants. In 1710 the area was part of the Saddle River Township. The city was named in tribute to Anthony Wayne, a Revolutionary War General. During the 18th and 19th centuries it was primarily a farming community. The Morris Canal transported the local produce to markets and brought coal from Pennsylvania.
By the end of the 19th century the railroad arrived and replaced the canal as the primary mode of transportation. During the early stages of the 20th century, Wayne became a prominent vacation area for prosperous New Yorkers. During World War II the vacation bungalows became residences for the local factory workers. After World War II ended the farming land was covered with homes.
Wayne Attractions
- Willowbrook Mall
- Wayne Towne Center
- Wayne Hills Mall
- High Mountain Park Preserve
- Ice Vault ice rink
- Pathmark Multicultural Arts Festival
- Van Riper-Hopper Historic House Museum offers a view into the farm life of the early days
- Meas-Van Duyne Historic House Museum is a pre-Revolutionary home
- Schuyler-Colfax Historic House Museum is a colonial homestead and is recognized as the oldest home in Wayne
- George Washington Colfax Barn Museum
- Dey Mansion/Washington's Headquarters Museum
Wayne Activities
The nearby lakes are popular with residents and visitors. The city features numerous parks for outdoor activities. The nearby Garret Mountain Reservation Loop Trail offers scenic views. The popular Tourne Park Trail is close by. Residents enjoy the activities and entertainment in nearby New York City.
Wayne Higher Education
The city is home to the Passaic County Technical Institute, the William Patterson University and a campus of the Passaic County Community College.
Wayne Transportation
Newark Liberty International Airport is the closest major airport.
