Assunpink Trail facts for kids

The Assunpink Trail was an important path used by Native Americans long ago. It was located in what is now central and western New Jersey, crossing areas like Middlesex, Somerset, and Mercer counties. The name "Assunpink" comes from the Algonquian language. It means "stony, watery place," just like the nearby Assunpink Creek.

Where the Trail Went

The Assunpink Trail was one of many old paths in the area. It stretched from the Raritan River in the north to the Delaware River in the south. The trail mostly followed the flat land near the Millstone River. Over many years, parts of this old trail became modern roads. These include the Old Dutch Trail, the Kings Highway, the Lincoln Highway, and today's Route 27.

Early History and Use

When Europeans first arrived, the area was home to the Lenape people. They were an Algonquian group, later called the Delaware Indians. In the late 1600s, Dutch trappers and traders from New Netherland started using the Assunpink Trail. They traveled between their settlements on the Hudson River and those on the Delaware River. Later, early settlers used the trail to move into the land.

After the British took control of the colony, the trail became a major road. It connected Philadelphia to Perth Amboy. Perth Amboy was the capital of East Jersey and a busy port. By 1698, the trail was known as the Kings Highway. In the early 1700s, it was made wider near a new bridge in Kingston.

The Trail During the American Revolution

During the American Revolution, the trail was very important. General George Washington used this road often. He moved his troops along it during key battles. These included the Battle of Trenton, the Battle of Princeton, and the Battle of Monmouth. The trail helped him move quickly in the region.

Modern Roads on the Trail's Path

In 1807, a new turnpike road was built. It was called the Princeton and Kingston Branch Turnpike. This road ran from Trenton to Kingston. Later, in 1913, parts of the trail became part of the Lincoln Highway. This was the first highway to cross the entire United States. It stretched from New York City to San Francisco. Today, the southern part of New Jersey Route 27 follows the route of the historic Assunpink Trail.