Norton, New Jersey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Norton, New Jersey
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Norton Methodist Episcopal Church
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 Norton, New Jersey
Location in Hunterdon County, New Jersey
Norton, New Jersey
Location in New Jersey
Norton, New Jersey
Location in the United States
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| Country |  United States |
| State |  New Jersey |
| County | Hunterdon |
| Township | Union |
| Elevation | 361 ft (110 m) |
| GNIS feature ID | 878889 |
Norton is a small, quiet community located in Union Township, New Jersey. It's not a separate town, but rather an "unincorporated community." This means it's a named place within a larger township. Norton is found in Hunterdon County, which is in the western part of New Jersey.
You can find Norton about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) northwest of Interstate 78, a major highway. The village is part of a special area called the Van Syckel Corner District. This district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 because of its important history and old buildings.
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History of Norton
Norton has a long history, with records showing activity as far back as the 1800s. Many of the buildings and places in Norton tell a story about how people lived and worked there a long time ago.
Early Businesses and Growth
In 1846, a man named Peter B. Scrope opened a store right in his home in Norton. This store was likely a central place for people in the community to buy supplies and meet. By 1882, Norton had grown to have a population of 203 people. It also had a tannery, which was a place where animal hides were processed into leather.
Norton's Schools
Education was important in Norton. An early schoolhouse, made of logs, was built in the community. However, it was later replaced. In 1872, a new and more modern building, known as the Norton School, was constructed to serve the children of the area.
Postal Services
Getting mail was a big deal in the past! A post office was set up in Norton in 1877. At first, mail was delivered three times a week, connecting the community to the outside world.
The North Hunterdon United Methodist Church
One of the most important historical buildings in Norton is the North Hunterdon United Methodist Church. It's also known by its older name, the Norton Methodist Episcopal Church. The very first church building was constructed here in 1828. It was later rebuilt in 1855, and then updated again in 1881 and 1908. This church stands near the border of Union Township and Bethlehem Township. Just north of the community, you can find the Norton Cemetery, which is a historic burial ground.
