Introduction to Woodbridge, New Jersey
Woodbridge, New Jersey, in Middlesex county, is 13 miles SW of Newark, New Jersey. It was named in tribute to Reverend John W. Woodbridge of Newbury Massachusetts. The township is recognized as the oldest original township in New Jersey. The population substantially increased during the 1950s due to the construction of the Garden State Parkway. The town includes ten distinct sections. The environment offers Colonial charm and modern buildings. Education, health services and retail are some of the primary factors for the economy.
Woodbridge History
The township was established by the Puritans in 1664 and given a charter by King Charles II of England. James Parker, a Woodbridge resident, had been a business associate of Benjamin Franklin. In 1758 he founded and printed "The New American Magazine," which had been the first periodical of this variety published in the Colony and the second periodical of this type published in the country.
One of the earliest meetings regarding anti-slavery occurred in Woodbridge at the farm of Moses Bloomfield, a surgeon for the Continental Army. In 1859 Woodbridge was a major supplier of fine clay deposits that were utilized for producing bricks. A prominent brick making facility was located in town.
Woodbridge Activities
The Brunswick Square Mall is a popular destination for shoppers. The Louis Brown Athletic Center - Rutgers University is one of the primary sports venues in the area. Families enjoy the Keansburg Amusement Park and the Runaway Rapids Water Park. The township hosts the Multicultural Arts Festival.
Merrill Park and William Warren Park provide residents opportunities for recreation. Notable attractions in the region include the Expo Hall Great Adventure, Menlo Park Mall, the Woodbridge Mall and Parker Press Park. The Sewaren Waterfront is popular with boating enthusiasts.
Woodbridge Attractions
The Barron Arts Center is included in the National Historic Registry and exhibits a vast number of art pieces. The White Church is one of the oldest churches in the state of New Jersey and the country. The Jacob K Javits Convention Center is located in the township. Raritan Art Center and the Royal Albert Palace are notable attractions.
Woodbridge Transportation
The township is home to three train stations. Transportation is provided by the New Jersey Transit Northeast Corridor, North Jersey Coast Line and the Amtrak Acela. The Newark Liberty International Airport provides air flights.