Little Known Fact: How New Providence Got Its Name

NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — It is a question that perhaps a lot of people have asked, but few know the answer to: How did New Providence get its name?

For this first installment of Patch's new "Little Known Fact" series, we look at exactly how New Providence's name came about.

New Providence's history dates back to 1664 when James, Duke of York, purchased the land from Native Americans. The first settlers were Puritans who came in 1720.

The area was first called Turkey due to the abundance of large flocks of wild turkeys.

In 1759, a crowded balcony collapsed at the Presbyterian Church. No one was seriously injured in the incident, which was considered a miracle.

That miracle was referred to as a divine act of providence and the town was known as New Providence.

Summit broke away from New Providence in 1869 over a disagreement with town management.

For more information about the history of New Providence, visit the Borough of New Providence website.

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com