Jackson Township, New Jersey: A Historical Overview and Insight Into Its Communities

Jackson Township, situated within Ocean County, New Jersey, is a diverse and vibrant community known for its fascinating history, attractive neighborhoods, and popular attractions. Established in 1844, the township provides a captivating glimpse into its rich history and looks forward to a promising future.

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Historical Background

Jackson Township was officially incorporated on March 6, 1844, having been created from parts of Dover Township (now Toms River Township), Freehold Township, and Upper Freehold Township. The township was named after Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States.

The community initially thrived on industries like sawmills, gristmills, and cranberry bogs, with agriculture forming the backbone of the economy. However, in the latter half of the 20th century, the township saw a transition towards being more of a suburban residential community.

Unincorporated Communities

The township includes a number of unincorporated communities, each offering a unique character and a slice of the area’s history. Here are a few of the communities:

Vista Center: A mostly residential area, located towards the center of the township.
Bennetts Mills: Named for the historic mill in the area, Bennetts Mills offers a peek into Jackson Township’s agricultural past.
Cassville: Cassville, home to the historic Cassville Tavern, provides a quaint, small-town atmosphere.
Jackson Mills: Known as the original settlement of the township, Jackson Mills is recognized for its historical sites.
Leesville: With its close-knit community, Leesville exudes a tranquil, residential feel.
Prospertown: A charming hamlet, Prospertown is part of the Prospertown Wildlife Management Area, a state-owned nature preserve.
Van Hiseville: Named after a notable family in Jackson’s history, Van Hiseville is known for peaceful suburban living.

Unincorporated Community	Notable Features
Bennetts Mills	Named after the historical Bennetts Mills, it’s a residential area with some historical sites.
Cassville	Home to the Cassville Tavern, which dates back to the Revolutionary War period, contributing to the community’s historical significance.
Prospertown	Best known for its proximity to the Prospertown Lake, a popular spot for fishing and boating.
Vista Center	A primarily residential area that developed in the late 20th century.
Jackson Mills	A residential community known for the historic Jackson Mills, a grist and sawmill.
Holmansville	Known for its historical buildings, including several 18th and 19th-century homes and farms.
Hyson	A small community located in the northern part of Jackson Township.
Leesville	Known for its rural atmosphere, with several farms and single-family homes.
Maryland	A small, primarily residential community.
Van Hiseville	Home to several businesses and residential homes.
Whitesville	Named after the early settler White family, it features a mix of residential homes and small businesses.

Notable Attractions

Jackson Township is home to several notable attractions that draw visitors from all over the state and beyond:

Six Flags Great Adventure: This well-known amusement park features some of the country’s most exhilarating roller coasters, including Kingda Ka, the world’s tallest roller coaster, and El Toro, consistently ranked among the world’s top wooden coasters.
Jackson Premium Outlets: Shoppers can enjoy more than 70 stores at the Jackson Premium Outlets, including many high-end brands at discounted prices.
Cassville Tavern: A historic site, this tavern dates back to the Revolutionary War period and is a favorite local dining spot.
Pine Barrens Golf Club: A premier golf facility, it features a world-class, championship golf course in a picturesque setting.

Statistical Data

According to U.S. Census data from 2020, Jackson Township has a population of approximately 60,000 residents. The median household income is about $87,000. The township covers a total area of approximately 100.55 square miles, making it the largest municipality in Ocean County. The population is culturally diverse, with a wide range of ethnic backgrounds represented. The public schools in Jackson Township are part of the Jackson School District, which serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The district is made up of six elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools.

Conclusion

With its rich history, diverse communities, and a variety of attractions, Jackson Township offers a unique experience for both its residents and visitors. The vibrant neighborhoods reflect the dynamic growth of the township while preserving a sense of history and community spirit. This wide array of experiences and activities truly makes Jackson Township a unique destination within New Jersey.

Unincorporated Community	Map
Bennetts Mills
Cassville
Prospertown
Vista Center
Jackson Mills
Holmansville
Hyson
Leesville
Maryland
Van Hiseville
Whitesville

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