Historic Springfield

Springfield Township came to be 300 years ago when Queen Anne granted a Royal Charter to Springfield Township of the Colony of New Jersey in 1713. The township was established as a "constabulary" on November 6th, 1688 under the Proprietary Government of the time. The name Springfield was selected perhaps after a town in England or maybe because of the abundant streams and springs. Extensive grassy marsh lands were valuable in providing fodder for animals without having to clear timber. Marl clay subsoils provided an early form of fertilizer leading to intense agriculture which continues to this day. Thanks to modern "Right to Farm" laws and preservation efforts, Springfield protects its fragile water and land resources and continues to be an oasis of farming and open spaces, devoid of rampant housing and commercial development.

The photos in the slideshow above are a sampling of the many photographic images on this website. Click on the links and images to explore the fascinating history of Springfield Township and its people.