Somerset County History

Somerset County is at the hub of Central New Jersey. Its 21 municipalities, which encompass 305 square miles, contain a diversity of landscape, population and development that reflects the varied lifestyles of its estimated 315,850 residents.

As one of America's oldest counties, Somerset is steeped in colonial and Revolutionary War history. The County was established by charter on May 22, 1688, with land conveyances dating to 1651. Historic sites, monuments and buildings are found in virtually every town, preserved for future generations.

Located in the heart of the nation's largest metropolitan area, Somerset County contains a balance between urban and suburban neighborhoods and rural countrysides. Fine residential communities, beautiful parks, excellent shopping areas, extensive farmlands, numerous historic sites and outstanding business and industry all make Somerset a desirable place to live, work and play.

The County's 9,506 acres of parkland include golf courses, picnic areas, hiking and bicycling trails, stables, a swimming pool, an Environmental Education Center and the County Fairgrounds, which each year hosts the Somerset County 4 H Fair. The County has preserved more than 4,600 acres of farmland through its Agriculture Development Program.