Bergen, New Jersey facts for kids

Bergen, New Jersey, is a name that can refer to several different places in the state of New Jersey. This can sometimes be a bit confusing, but it's common for names to be used for more than one location, especially in areas with a long history. Let's explore what "Bergen" might mean when you hear it in New Jersey!

What is Bergen, New Jersey?

When people talk about "Bergen, New Jersey," they might be talking about a few different places. These include a large county, a part of a city, or even places that used to exist but are now part of other towns. Understanding the history of these places helps us know which "Bergen" someone is referring to.

Bergen County, New Jersey

Bergen County, New Jersey is the most well-known "Bergen" in New Jersey today. It's located in the northeastern part of the state, right next to New York City. Bergen County is one of the largest counties in New Jersey by population. It has many towns and cities, like Hackensack, Paramus, and Fort Lee. The county is known for its busy shopping areas, beautiful parks, and historical sites. It's a very important part of the New York metropolitan area.

Bergen City, New Jersey

Long ago, there was a place called Bergen City, New Jersey. This was an actual city that existed for a time. However, it no longer exists as a separate city today. Bergen City was eventually joined with Jersey City, New Jersey. This process is called annexation, where one city takes over another. So, if you hear about Bergen City, it's a historical reference to a place that is now part of Jersey City.

Bergen Section, Jersey City

Even though Bergen City doesn't exist anymore, a part of Jersey City, New Jersey is still called the Bergen Section, Jersey City. This is a neighborhood or area within the larger city of Jersey City. It's a busy and diverse part of Jersey City, with homes, businesses, and schools. This section keeps the "Bergen" name alive in a modern context, showing its historical roots.

Former Bergen Townships

Over the years, there were also different areas known as "Bergen Township." These were types of local governments that managed land and people in certain areas.

Bergen Township (1661–1862)

One of the earliest was Bergen Township, New Jersey (1661–1862). This township was very old, existing from 1661 all the way to 1862. It was located in what is now Hudson County, New Jersey. This original Bergen Township was a large area that eventually broke up into many of the towns and cities we know today in Hudson County, including parts of Jersey City. It played a big role in the early development of the region.

Bergen Township (1893–1902)

Later, there was another, much shorter-lived township called Bergen Township, New Jersey (1893–1902). This one existed from 1893 to 1902 and was located in Bergen County, New Jersey. It was a smaller township that also eventually became part of other towns. This shows how local boundaries can change over time as populations grow and communities develop.