History of Atlantic County, New Jersey
Atlantic County, located in the southeastern part of New Jersey, has a rich and diverse history that traces its origins back to Native American settlements and spans through European colonization, early industrialization, and the development of its modern economy. The county was officially established in 1837, but its history dates back much earlier, with significant events and landmarks influencing its cultural and economic growth. Today, Atlantic County is known for its vibrant coastal tourism, thriving casinos, and historical sites, making it a key area in both New Jersey’s past and present.
Origins and Early History
Native American Presence
Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Atlantic County was inhabited by the Lenape people, an Indigenous group who lived along the New Jersey coast. The Lenape were primarily hunter-gatherers and fishermen, using the region’s abundant natural resources for sustenance. The tribe was organized into smaller groups, with villages scattered along rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. The region’s fertile soil and rich waterways made it an ideal location for the Lenape to thrive.
The Lenape, known for their peaceful ways, were the first to encounter European settlers in the early 1600s. The first documented European presence in the area was by the Dutch in the 1620s, although English settlers from New England soon began to establish colonies along the Atlantic coast. These settlers initially interacted with the Lenape through trade, but tensions arose over land disputes, leading to conflict and displacement of the indigenous people.
European Settlement and Colonial Era
The land that would later become Atlantic County was originally part of the territory granted to the Province of West Jersey in 1674. Early European settlers, primarily from England, established agricultural settlements in the area. Farming and fishing became the primary sources of income for the growing population. With the establishment of settlements like Galloway and Egg Harbor, the region saw a steady influx of European immigrants seeking new opportunities in the fertile soil and abundant resources.
During the colonial period, the area played a vital role in the growing economy of New Jersey, contributing to the production of timber, grain, and other agricultural products. The Atlantic County coastline also saw the development of shipbuilding and maritime trade. The Egg Harbor region, in particular, became a key port for the export of goods like lumber and tobacco.
Revolution and Early American Years
Atlantic County’s proximity to major colonial cities like Philadelphia and New York made it a strategic location during the American Revolution. The area saw both military skirmishes and the movement of troops as the struggle for independence unfolded. While it was not the site of major battles, the region’s residents participated in the conflict by supplying food, goods, and even soldiers to the Continental Army.
In the early years following independence, Atlantic County’s economy remained largely agricultural. The development of roads and bridges during the late 18th century improved transportation, facilitating trade and helping to connect the county more closely with other parts of New Jersey and beyond.
19th Century Development
Establishment of Atlantic County
In 1837, Atlantic County was officially formed, carved out of portions of Gloucester and Burlington Counties. The name “Atlantic” reflects the county’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, an integral part of its identity and economy. The creation of Atlantic County coincided with a period of rapid growth in New Jersey, as the state transitioned from an agricultural economy to one that included industry, commerce, and tourism.
The county’s early growth was fueled by the expansion of transportation infrastructure, including the construction of roads, railroads, and canals. These developments made it easier to transport goods such as produce, timber, and iron from Atlantic County to major urban centers. As a result, the region saw an increase in trade and commerce, and small towns began to grow into bustling communities.
The Rise of Atlantic City
One of the defining moments in Atlantic County’s history came with the development of Atlantic City. In the late 19th century, a resort town was established on the barrier islands of the Jersey Shore. The construction of railroads made Atlantic City easily accessible to tourists from New York, Philadelphia, and other urban areas. By the 1880s, Atlantic City had become a popular summer destination, known for its boardwalk, beachfront, and luxury hotels.
The introduction of the boardwalk in 1870 was a game-changer, as it attracted even more visitors to the area. Over the next few decades, the city’s economy flourished, with visitors flocking to enjoy the oceanfront attractions and leisure activities. Atlantic City became a center for entertainment, with theaters, music venues, and casinos emerging as key features of the resort.
The 20th Century and the Growth of Tourism
The early 20th century saw the continued growth of Atlantic City, and by the 1920s, the city had established itself as one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. The development of the Atlantic City Boardwalk and iconic landmarks like the Steel Pier brought in millions of visitors annually. As the nation’s most famous resort town, Atlantic City became synonymous with leisure and entertainment, attracting tourists from all walks of life.
The city’s success helped fuel the economic development of Atlantic County. New hotels, restaurants, and shops sprang up in the area, and other towns along the coast experienced growth. The impact of tourism became an important factor in shaping the county’s identity and economy, particularly as more people visited to gamble, relax on the beach, and take in the natural beauty of the region.
Atlantic County and the Casino Industry
In 1976, a turning point in Atlantic County’s history occurred when New Jersey voters approved the legalization of casino gambling in Atlantic City. The city soon became home to a booming casino industry, with the opening of iconic hotels and casinos such as the Resorts International Hotel & Casino in 1978. The casino boom transformed the city into a major hub for gaming, entertainment, and tourism, creating thousands of jobs and bringing in billions of dollars in revenue.
The development of casinos was a game-changer for the county, particularly in terms of economic growth. Atlantic County became a center for both gambling and hospitality, and its identity became closely tied to the casino industry. The county also saw the rise of ancillary industries such as entertainment, nightlife, and service-related businesses, all of which contributed to its continued economic success.
Historical Sites in Atlantic County
1. Absecon Lighthouse
Overview
The Absecon Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and a significant historical landmark in Atlantic County. Built in 1857, the lighthouse stands at 171 feet tall and provides panoramic views of Atlantic City and the surrounding area. The lighthouse was essential to guiding ships safely along the coastline during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it serves as a museum and educational center, showcasing the history of lighthouses and maritime navigation.
Location
31 S. Rhode Island Ave, Atlantic City, NJ
Ticket Price
$10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 5-12)
Parking Information
Street parking is available nearby, and there is a small lot for visitors to park.
2. Atlantic City Historical Museum and Gallery
Overview
The Atlantic City Historical Museum and Gallery offers a glimpse into the city’s storied past, including its origins as a seaside resort and its rise as a gambling mecca. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including memorabilia from Atlantic City’s golden age, artifacts related to the boardwalk, and displays on the history of casino gambling.
Location
Boardwalk Hall, 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ
Ticket Price
Free admission
Parking Information
Parking is available at Boardwalk Hall’s parking garage for a fee.
3. Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University
Overview
The Noyes Arts Garage is an innovative arts center located in Atlantic City that promotes local artists and provides a venue for arts exhibitions and cultural events. Housed in a former parking garage, the facility showcases diverse art collections and serves as a hub for creativity in the region.
Location
2200 Fairmount Ave, Atlantic City, NJ
Ticket Price
Free admission to most exhibits; special events may have an entry fee
Parking Information
Parking is available in the adjacent parking garage.
4. Richard Stockton College of New Jersey Campus
Overview
Founded in 1971, Stockton University (formerly Richard Stockton College) is a public liberal arts university that has had a profound impact on the region’s educational and economic development. The campus is home to a variety of historic buildings, and the university hosts cultural events and exhibits open to the public.
Location
101 Vera King Farris Drive, Galloway, NJ
Ticket Price
Free to visit; specific events may have fees
Parking Information
Free parking is available on campus.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Atlantic County spans over 556 square miles, with a diverse landscape that includes coastal beaches, wetlands, and forests. The county’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean provides it with scenic waterfront areas, including beaches and resorts. The county’s geography is characterized by low-lying terrain, with many areas prone to flooding, especially along the coastline. The Pinelands National Reserve, which stretches into parts of the county, adds to its natural beauty.
The climate of Atlantic County is classified as humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. Coastal proximity moderates temperatures, keeping winters relatively mild and summers warm but not excessively hot. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with occasional snowfall in winter.
Key Facts
- Year Founded: 1837
- County Seat: Mays Landing
- Population: 274,536 (as of 2020 census)
- Population Density: 491 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Atlantic City, Egg Harbor Township, Galloway Township, Pleasantville, and Hammonton
- Major Highways: Garden State Parkway, Atlantic City Expressway, Route 9
- Adjacent Counties: Cape May County (south), Cumberland County (west), Ocean County (north), Burlington County (northwest), and Philadelphia County, PA (across the Delaware River)