History of Bernardsville

Bernardsville, nestled in the rolling hills of Somerset County, has a rich history that dates back to the pre-Revolutionary War era. Originally a section of Bernards Township called Vealtown, the area was primarily settled by English and Scottish immigrants in the early 1700s. The community was named after Sir Francis Bernard, the colonial governor of New Jersey from 1758 to 1760.

During the Revolutionary War, Bernardsville played a strategic role due to its location. "The New Jersey Brigade Area" was famously established in what is now Bernardsville in the winter of 1789-90 between Jockey Hollow and Hardscrabble Road.

Post-war, the area remained largely agricultural until the arrival of the railroad in the 1870s, which helped shape part of it into the "Bernardsville Mountain Colony," a summer retreat for wealthy New Yorkers.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the construction of grand estates and mansions, some of which still stand today as a testament to Bernardsville's gilded past. The community continued to grow and evolve, eventually separating from Bernards Township and incorporating as a borough in 1924.

Today, Bernardsville honors its historical roots while embracing the future. It offers residents a unique blend of small-town charm and contemporary conveniences and elegance, making it an attractive place to live for those who appreciate its rural suburban atmosphere and a strong sense of community. With its excellent schools, beautiful landscapes, and proximity to New York City, Bernardsville continues to be a desirable destination for families and individuals alike.

Read more about Bernardsville's History and that of Somerset Hills in general via the Somerset Hills Historical Society, the New Jersey Brigade Area and Cross Estate section of the Morristown National Historical Park website, and the other Somerset Hills town networks on Blue Burbia: Basking Ridge, Bedminster, Far Hills, and Peapack and Gladstone.