Elizabeth Borough, New Jersey facts for kids
Elizabeth Borough was a special kind of town, called a borough, that existed in Essex County, New Jersey. It was around for a long time, from 1740 until 1855. A borough is like a smaller, self-governing area within a larger county or state.
How Elizabeth Borough Started
Elizabeth Borough officially began on February 8, 1740. It was created by something called a Royal Charter. This was a special document given by the King or Queen of England, allowing a new town or organization to be formed and govern itself.
After the United States became independent, the borough was given a new charter. This new document was approved by the New Jersey Legislature on November 28, 1789. The Legislature is the group of elected officials who make laws for the state of New Jersey.
Changes to the Borough's Land
Over the years, parts of Elizabeth Borough's land were used to create other towns. This is a common way that new communities are formed as populations grow.
- On November 23, 1808, a piece of Elizabeth Borough became Union Township.
- Later, on April 14, 1834, another part of the borough was used to create Clinton Township.
Becoming the City of Elizabeth
Elizabeth Borough eventually joined with another area to form a larger city. On March 13, 1855, the City of Elizabeth was created. This new city was formed by combining Elizabeth Borough and Elizabeth Township. When the City of Elizabeth was created, Elizabeth Township stopped existing as a separate area.
