Considering New Jersey’s status as the Garden State, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that we’ve got plenty to enjoy here in our home state when summer rolls around. From the mountains to the shore and everywhere in between, there are a ton of opportunities to take in some fresh air and have some fun in the sun.
New Jersey is home to a wealth of protected open space, parks, and historic monuments. If you’re looking for a great way to spend the day with family or friends, you’ll find something for everyone right here at home at Morristown National Historic Park!
The Mansion
Perhaps the best-known of the park’s attractions, the Ford Mansion was built in the early 1770s for iron manufacturer Jacob Ford Jr. and his family. Ford went on to serve as a colonel during the Revolutionary War; the mansion was housing 35 soldiers from Delaware when Ford died in January of 1777.
That isn’t the end of the Georgian style mansion’s military history, though. Just a few years later, Ford’s widow allowed General George Washington to use the property as his headquarters. The Ford family then remained in the home until the 1870s, when it was sold at auction and preserved for future generations to enjoy!
The Trails
In addition to the mansion itself, the Morristown National Historic Park also preserves the surrounding grounds where the Continental Army camped during the winter. The hilly terrain includes sprawling mature forests, which the soldiers used to construct shelters.
These days, the forests have all regrown and have even expanded to reclaim farmers’ fields that were abandoned during the 18- and 1900s. Visitors to the park can enjoy 27 miles of hiking trails through the area, exploring historical sites and abundant wildlife communities.
Whether you’re looking to soak up some history, explore the great outdoors, or a bit of both, Morristown National Historic Park is a great place to visit right in our own backyard! For more information on this and other local attractions, be sure to contact Toyota of Morristown online or to give us a call at (973) 540-1111 today.