Freehold, New Jersey facts for kids

Freehold, New Jersey is a name that refers to two different places in Monmouth County, New Jersey: Freehold Borough, New Jersey and Freehold Township, New Jersey. The Borough is a smaller, historic town, while the Township is a much larger area that surrounds the Borough. Think of it like a small, older town center (the Borough) surrounded by a bigger, more spread-out community (the Township). Both are important parts of Monmouth County.

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What is Freehold, New Jersey?

Freehold, New Jersey, is located in the central part of New Jersey. It's known for its rich history and its role as the county seat of Monmouth County. This means that many important government offices for the county are located here. Even though the Borough and the Township are separate, they share a name and a lot of history.

A Look at Freehold's Past

Freehold has a long and interesting history, dating back to colonial times. It was an important place during the American Revolutionary War. One of the biggest battles of the war, the Battle of Monmouth, happened nearby in June 1778. This battle was a key moment where the American forces, led by George Washington, showed their strength against the British.

How Freehold Got Its Name

The name "Freehold" comes from the way land was owned here a long time ago. In some places, land was held by a lord or king, but in Freehold, people could own their land outright, meaning they had "freehold" over it. This was a big deal and showed a sense of independence from early on.

Important Moments in History

Beyond the Revolutionary War, Freehold continued to grow. It became a center for farming and trade. The arrival of railroads in the 1800s helped Freehold connect with bigger cities like New York City and Philadelphia, bringing more people and businesses to the area. Many historic buildings from these times can still be seen today, especially in Freehold Borough.

Freehold Borough: The Heart of the County

Freehold Borough is the smaller, more historic part of Freehold. It's often called the "downtown" area. It has a classic main street with shops, restaurants, and the county courthouse. The Borough is where many community events happen, like parades and festivals. It's a walkable area with a strong sense of community.

Life in the Borough

Living in Freehold Borough means being close to history and local activities. The streets are lined with older homes, and there's a lively atmosphere. Students in the Borough attend schools within the Freehold Borough School District. It's a place where you can often see people walking around, enjoying the local businesses and historic sites.

Freehold Township: A Larger Community

Freehold Township is much larger than the Borough and surrounds it completely. It's a more suburban area with many neighborhoods, shopping centers, and parks. The Township has grown a lot over the years, offering more space and different types of housing.

Exploring the Township

Freehold Township has many modern amenities. It's home to larger shopping malls, more schools, and many recreational facilities. Students in the Township attend schools within the Freehold Township School District for younger grades, and then often go to one of the high schools in the Freehold Regional High School District. The Township offers a mix of quiet residential areas and busy commercial zones.

Fun Things to Do in Freehold

Both Freehold Borough and Freehold Township offer many activities for young people and families.

• The Monmouth County Historical Association Museum in the Borough is a great place to learn more about the area's past.
• There are several parks in both the Borough and the Township, perfect for sports, playgrounds, or just enjoying nature.
• Local events, especially around holidays, bring the community together with parades, fairs, and concerts.
• The Freehold Raceway Mall in the Township is a popular spot for shopping and entertainment.

Freehold's Natural Side

Even with its history and modern development, Freehold still has natural beauty. There are many parks and open spaces that provide opportunities for outdoor activities. These green areas help protect local wildlife and offer a peaceful escape from busy life.