History of Woodbridge Township, New Jersey, USA

1854 - Woodbridge
Woodbridge, a post-township of Middlesex co., New Jersey, on Staten Island sound, about 38 miles N. E. from Trenton. Population, 5141.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1895 - Woodbridge
Woodbridge, a post-village in Woodbridge township, Middlesex co., N.J., on the Perth Amboy & Woodbridge Railroad, 5 miles S. of Rahway, and 24 miles S.W. of New York. It has 5 churches, a newspaper office, and manufactures of fire-bricks and tiles. The township borders on Staten Island Sound. Pop, about 5000.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1897 - BRICK FACTORY FIRE.
Woodbridge, N.J., Aug. 24. - The heavy rain this morning, which did so much damage in this vicinity, was directly responsible for a big fire here.

The Salamander fire brick factory was burned to the ground.
Trenton Evening Times
Trenton, New Jersey
August 24, 1897

1910 - ENGINE KILLS TWO IN AUTO. Men on Rear Seat of Machine Escape Injury in Crossing Crash.
New Brunswick, N. J., June 22. - Two automobiles were killed today when a locomotive struck their automobile near Woodbridge, N. J. They were Thomas Gilfeather, and automobile salesman, of Cincinnati, and A. Morris, a chauffeur, of New York.

There were four men in the automobile. The locomotive struck the front end of the machine and the two men who were riding in the rear seat were not injured. They disappeared after the accident. Morris was hurled out and his skull was fractured, causing instant death.

Gilfeather was pinned under the automobile, which took fire, and he was burned to death.

The men who jumped out and ran away were poorly dressed and, it is thought, they may have been tramps who had been given a ride by Morris.
The Washington Post
Washington, DC
June 23, 1910

1940 - BLAST KILLS 8.
Woodbridge, N.J., Nov. 12. - (AP) - A mysterious, deafening blast shattered 14 buildings in and adjoining the United Railway Signal Co. plant today, killing eight persons and breaking windows 17 miles away in Bayonne.

Five dead, four of them women employes, were carried out of the smoking ruins by rescue crews working in a steady rain.

Two other women workers died in hospitals.

Then the torso of another victim, also a woman, was found late today, blown 1,000 feet from the plant by the explosion.
The company had no government contracts and the possibility of sabotage was discounted by all investigators. Nevertheless, a three-way inquiry was started immediately by agents of the Department of Justice, the Middlesex coprosecutor's office and local police.

Hugh W. Kelly, president-owner of the plant for 20 years, estimated damage at $50,000 and announced plans to rebuild soon. The company manufactures railroad signal torpedoes, flares and similar equipment.

He had no reason ... Read MORE...

Here are some of the best places to go and things to do in Woodbridge Township:
Thomas Edison National Historical Park: Start your exploration of Woodbridge Township with a visit to the Thomas Edison National Historical Park. This site preserves the laboratory and home of the famous inventor, Thomas Edison. You can take guided tours to learn about his inventions and innovations, including the phonograph and the incandescent light bulb.

Tasteful Experience Winery: If you're a wine enthusiast, Tasteful Experience Winery is a must-visit. This family-owned winery produces a variety of wines, and you can enjoy tastings while taking in beautiful vineyard views. They often host events and offer live music, making it a great spot for a relaxing afternoon.

Woodbridge Community Center: The Woodbridge Community Center is a hub of activity for residents and visitors. It features an indoor pool, ice skating rink, fitness center, and various recreational programs. It's an excellent place for families, and they often host events and concerts.

Woodbridge Center Mall: If ... Read MORE...