Newark, New Jersey: The old and new come together
by Paul H.Green
With all its financial prominence, commercialism, and modern-day facilities, it's a wonder that Newark is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Newark is often referred to as the "Gateway of New Jersey."
Newark is situated on the Passaic River and is the county seat of Essex County. Cities that are near Newark include East Newark, Harrison, Irvington, East Orange, and Kearny. As of 2003, Newark's population was estimated at 277,911.
Newark in history
There are two theories as to how the name "Newark" came about. One is that the name was that of an English town. Another theory is that the name came from a Biblical term "New Ark."
Newark is more than 330 years old, and there are only two other American cities that can claim that many years in history. The Puritans settled there first. Then during the 19th and 20th centuries, Newark began growing in industry and commerce. There were small cottages and homes built along Broad Street that offered products to be exported. The leather industry grew in the area as well. During the 1830s, there were several happenings that contributed to the area's growth. The first was the completion of the Morris Canal. Second, there was a railroad. Third, city status was given in 1836.
Today, Newark is proud of its long heritage and continued growth. Even the airport there has become one of the busiest in the country.
Educational opportunities in Newark
There are five major learning institutions in Newark, each known for specialized training. These are New Jersey Institute of Technology, Essex County College, Seton Hall Law School, Rutgers-Newark, which is the State University of New Jersey, and University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey.
Well-known residents of Newark
Several well-known people have lived in Newark including Whitney Houston (pop singer), Paul Simon (singer/songwriter), Jerry Lewis (comedian), and Brian De Palma (director/screenwriter). There were also several movies filmed in Newark: "Outrageous Fortune," "Garden State," and "Imaginary Heroes."
Newark tourism
There is much to do in Newark for the traveler or locals. Art lovers, history buffs, families and individuals will find plenty to see and do while in the area.
Newark museums
At the Newark Museum www.newarkmuseum.org , visitors get to tour 80 galleries, a lovely sculpture garden, a planetarium, a historic landmark called the Ballantine House, and also a mini-zoo for the young and the young at heart. They can also take a break and grab some lunch at the museum cafe and gift shop. Newark also has several other great museums including the Robeson Gallery, the Richardson Gallery, and the City without Walls.
Newark parks and other places of interest
Visitors to Newark can spend a relaxing day at one of the beautiful parks in the area. There are several to choose from: Washington Park, Jesse Allen Park, and Lincoln Park.
At Military Park in Newark, there are a number of important timepieces such as the Wars of America Monument, which was unveiled in 1926 as well as a bust of John F. Kennedy that was presented in 1965. Military Park was first used as a training field for U.S. soldiers when the city was first planned in 1667.
The New Jersey Historical Society www.jerseyhistory.org is another great place for historians. It was founded in 1845 and contains many collections of pamphlets, books, furniture, paintings, and memorabilia that reflect the history of New Jersey.
For those who enjoy touring older homes, the Plume House is a Dutch colonial farmhouse that was constructed in 1710. The home served as a House of Prayer since 1850. Also, the Reverend Hannibal Goodwin invented flexible film, which was the basis for the motion picture industry, in the home's top floor in 1887.
Newark welcomes shoppers
Shoppers will find plenty of stores with books, antiques and other fine products while in Newark. The city offers five major antique outlets and twenty bookstores. There is also the Mall at Short Hills, which is one of the most exclusive areas for shoppers in Newark. It features more than 170 top brand-name retailers, from Crate to Chanel. Stores within the mall or anchors include Macy's, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's, and Neiman Marcus. The mall is also home to several fantastic restaurants such as Qdoba Mexican Grill and California Pizza Kitchen. Shoppers can find all they're looking for and stop by for a bite to eat - in one place.
Performing arts in Newark
Those interested in performing arts will want to visit the New Jersey Performing Arts Center while in Newark. It offers shows by some of the most talented performers in the world, from orchestra concerts to plays – there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular shows and performances have been Lauryn Hill, the Vienna Boys Choir, Itzhak Periman, 'N Sync, and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Festivals in Newark
Newark hosts several popular festivals each year. During the winters months, there are the Sarah Vaughan Jazz Festival and the Columbus Day Parade. For spring, there are the St. Patrick's Day Parade and the African-American Heritage Day Parade. In Summer, Newark hosts the Puerto Rican Statewide Parade and Festival, the Newark Festival of People and the Gospel Festival. The Brazilian Independence Day Festival is held in fall.
Those planning a visit to Newark should bring their walking shoes and get ready to learn about history, tour historical districts, relax at a park, and attend a fun festival. Inside Newark are many treasures waiting to be discovered.