The Unique History of Jackson Township, New Jersey
Incorporated as a township of Ocean County on March 6, 1844, Jackson Township is named after the former United States President, Andrew Jackson (1829-1837). The incorporation of the Jackson Township took place through the New Jersey Legislature by including portions of Upper Freehold Township, Tom River Township, and Freehold Township. Originally, it was formed as a new local municipality of Monmouth County and became part of newly formed Ocean County in the year 1850.
Formation of Jackson Township
When Jackson Township was formed, it covered a huge area of 170 square miles, which continued to dwindle over the years. The formation of Plumsted Township took place by cutting off the portions of Jackson Township. Currently, it covers an area of nearly 100 square miles. Agriculture and forestry were one of the primary industries in Jackson Township in the early 1900s. As the new settlers came in from across the country and Europe, the area covering the forest was heavily stripped. It led to farmers converting their farmlands to growing crops.
When it was discovered that the consumption of wild cranberries could prevent deadly Beri-Beri disease, the farmers took to the production of wild cranberries. During the Civil War, there were more than 200 active cranberry bogs in production. The harvested cranberries helped sawmills in Jackson Township, too, as the packaging of cranberries was done in barrels and crates manufactured locally. The charcoal made from the fabrication of Pine trees and cranberry farming continued to be the main industry of Jackson Township until World War I. The demand for cranberries and charcoal declined after the war leading to the downfall of these industries.
Growth of Jackson
In the meantime, the poultry industry saw a major rise. All of a sudden, everyone was entering the poultry business, and the Jackson Township also housed the second-largest poultry farm in New Jersey named the Shubkegel Farm. It could house more than 30,000 chickens in its multi-story coops. As the 1960s approached, the development of New Jersey megalopolis and its rapid growth along with the development of the inter-state transit system shifted the focus from agriculture and poultry to new home development.
Today, Jackson Township is primarily a commuter community, and its estimated population stands at just over 54,000. With its rich history of over 330 years, including the 150 years after its incorporation as a municipality, it can take pride in being one of the fastest-growing and peaceful residential communities in Ocean County.
Call Jackson’s Most Trusted Roofing Professionals
When your roof is leaking, or damaged after a storm, the decision is easy who to call! Contact Roof Works, Jackson Township’s most trusted roofing company! Jackson is a city of rich history. Likewise, our company was founded on the same principles that this great township was founded on, and we take pride in our humble Jackson roots. Give us a call for your free roofing estimate today!