Layton, New Jersey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Layton, New Jersey
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Layton along County Route 560.
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 Layton, New Jersey
Location in Sussex County, New Jersey
Layton, New Jersey
Location in New Jersey
Layton, New Jersey
Location in the United States
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| Country |  United States |
| State |  New Jersey |
| County | Sussex |
| Township | Sandyston |
| Named for | John Layton |
| Area | |
| • Total | 6.99 sq mi (18.11 km2) |
| • Land | 6.98 sq mi (18.07 km2) |
| • Water | 0.02 sq mi (0.04 km2) |
| Elevation | 574 ft (175 m) |
| Population
(2020)
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| • Total | 692 |
| • Density | 99.18/sq mi (38.29/km2) |
| ZIP Code |
07826
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| FIPS code | 34-39600 |
| GNIS feature ID | 0877713 |
Layton is a small community in Sussex County, New Jersey, in the U.S. state of New Jersey. It is known as an unincorporated community, which means it's a place with a shared identity but no separate local government. It is also a census-designated place (CDP), which is an area identified by the United States Census Bureau for gathering population data.
Layton is located within Sandyston Township. The area uses United States Postal Service ZIP Code 07851 for mail. Layton is about 574 feet (175 meters) above sea level.
The Dingman's Ferry Bridge is a notable landmark near Layton. This bridge crosses the Delaware River. It connects County Route 560 in New Jersey to PA 739 in Pennsylvania.
Contents
Who Lives in Layton?
As of the 2020 United States census, the population of Layton was 692 people.
| Historical population | |||
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| Census | Pop. | %± | |
| 2020 | 692 | — | |
| U.S. Decennial Census | |||
A Look at Layton's History
Layton was first settled around the year 1800. A man named John Layton was one of the first settlers, and the community was originally called Centreville. It got this name because it was located roughly in the middle of the township.
The community grew where several roads met: Layton-Bevans Road (County Route 640), Tuttles Corner-Dingmans Road (CR 560), and Layton-Hainesville Road (CR 645). The Little Flat Brook, a small stream, flows through the village. This stream was important because it powered early mills.
Early Businesses and Growth
Simeon Fisher, a blacksmith, was the first person to open a business in Layton. After him, Abraham Bell opened a carpenter's shop and a tavern. In 1835, Squire Layton opened a store that served both local residents and travelers.
By 1860, Layton had grown quite a bit. It had a Methodist church, two stores, a post office, and several workshops like a tannery, a blacksmith shop, and a cooperage shop (where barrels were made). There was also a sawmill, a gristmill (for grinding grain), a hotel, and more than fifteen homes. Soon after, a one-room schoolhouse was built for the children.
How Layton Got Its Name
In 1861, John B. Layton asked Washington, D.C., for mail delivery to the community. He used the name "Centerville" in his request. However, another community in New Jersey already used that name. So, the area was given the name "Laytons," after John Layton. Later, the Post Office Department changed the name slightly by removing the 's', making it "Layton."
Layton in the Early 1900s
In 1906, an official directory reported that Layton had a gristmill, a creamery (a place that processes milk), several homes, and about 100 people. By 1915, the number of residents had dropped to about 60.
Even with fewer people, Layton was known for its beautiful scenery and healthy climate. It was described as being only two miles from the Delaware River and close to several small, clear lakes. These lakes were fed by mountain streams. The area was also known for having lots of fish in its waters. It was seen as a great place for people from cities to visit during the summer.
Layton's Climate
Layton experiences a type of weather known as a humid continental climate. This means there are big differences in temperature throughout the year. Summers are warm to hot, and often humid. Winters are cold, and sometimes very cold.
Famous People from Layton
Some people who were born in, lived in, or had strong connections to Layton include:
- George B. Harper (1918-1988): He was a politician who served in the New Jersey Senate from 1954 to 1964. A politician is someone who works in government, making laws and decisions for the community.
- Harry Harper (1895-1963): He was a professional baseball pitcher. A pitcher is the player who throws the ball to the batter in a baseball game. Harry Harper played for four different teams in the major leagues.
