MONTVILLE'S HISTORY

Montville Township contains historical roots that predate the founding of the United States. First settled by Dutch farmers, not until the early 1740's was the first road constructed, what is now Route 202.  This once wilderness pathway was witness to such historic events as the frequent  passage of General George Washington, Commander and Chief of the Continental Army.  The Doremus house, located in the North West section of town was, in the early 1700's, one of the few structures that might offer a weary traveler warmth and safe haven from the harsh New Jersey Winters.  General Washington frequented this house, using it as a way point and rest area during his many  trips to and from Morristown, New Jersey. 

By 1824, construction of the Morris Canal had commenced.  Following  its completion, commercial traffic and raw iron ore began to thread it's way down this water way to the emerging and bustling industrial area of Newark  and lower Passaic River basin.  By the late 1880's, Construction on what would become known as the Eire - Lackawanna Rail Road had commenced.  These two major thorough fares would be later replaced by Route 287, which runs North to the New York Boarder and South, to the Sandy Hook area of the Raritain River Basin.  The mid- 19th century saw the development of two smaller village centers apart from Montville: Pine Brook and White Hall,  later to be renamed Towaco.  On April 11, 1867 the New Jersey State Legislature formally united and chartered the three sections of White Hall, Montville and Pine Brook into the present day Township of Montville.

The municipality grew over the century from a few farms to over 1,957 homes and 79 farms by 1962.  Over the last few decades, Montville received increased attention from residential and commercial property developers.  Consequently, Montville now has over 18,000 residents. However, despite this growth,  Montville still enjoys a significantly lower population density by comparison to either the county or state average.

Montville's proud, rich history is but one of its' many attractions.  New residents and business speculators are attracted not only by its' historical significance to the   Revolutionary War years and the legendary stop overs by General Washingtonís troops and of General Washington himself,   but of its' central location and quality  neighborhoods.

     

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