Amwell Valley facts for kids
The Amwell Valley is a small valley located in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. It sits between the Hunterdon Plateau and the Sourlands. This area includes towns like Stockton, parts of Delaware Township, West Amwell, East Amwell, Flemington, and Raritan Township.
The valley is bordered by the Delaware River to the west. To the east, you'll find the South Branch Raritan River. The land here is generally flat, about 200 feet (61 meters) above sea level. US 202 is a main road that goes through the valley from west to east. Another old road, Old York Road, also passes through this area. The Amwell Valley has many farms. This is because it has good weather, flat land, and rich, silty soil. You can also find Unionville Winery and Old York Cellars here.
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Exploring Amwell Valley's Villages
The Amwell Valley is home to several historic villages. Each one has its own unique story.
Larrison's Corner
Larrison's Corner was once known as Pleasant Corner. It got its name from John W. Larison, who owned a tavern there. The Amwell United First Presbyterian Church is in this village. It used to be called the German Reformed Church. The very first house built here was a log house. It was later replaced by a stone building, known as the "Old Stone House."
Reaville
Reaville was first called Manners Tavern, named after John Manners. Later, it was known as Greenville, after Richard Green. This village is located where Old York Road and Amwell Road meet. In 1740, a famous preacher named George Whitefield gave a sermon at the Presbyterian Church here. The village also had a school, a hotel, a post office, and various shops. The current name, Reaville, comes from Runkle Rea. He was the first postmaster of the village.
Ringoes
Ringoes is named after John Ringo. He started a tavern there, and the village was originally called Ringo's. It is the oldest European settlement in Hunterdon County. Ringoes was built where two old trails crossed: the Nariticong Trail (which became Old York Road) and the Malayelick Trail. In the past, Ringoes had general stores, blacksmith shops, and a hotel. It was also home to the Amwell Academy and the Academy of Science.
Past Settlements of Amwell Valley
Some smaller communities in the Amwell Valley are no longer as active as they once were.
Clover Hill
Clover Hill was named after Peter C. Clover. Before that, it was called Koughstown, after Casparus Kough, Jr. This village was located on Amwell Road and Clover Hill Road. It used to have a tavern, a store, a church, a hotel, a blacksmith, and a post office.
Minksville
Minksville was a small settlement named after the minks found in the area. It was located near Wertsville Road and Dutch Lane. Later, it was called Union and then Unionville. This was because it was at a crossroads, including near Old York Road.
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