NEW JERSEY - New Jersey, known for its bustling cities, picturesque beaches, and iconic nickname, "The Garden State," has a name with roots across the Atlantic Ocean. The story of how New Jersey got its name is intertwined with the early history of European colonization in North America.
From the Isle of Jersey to the New World
The name "New Jersey" can be traced back to the Channel Islands, between England and France. One of these islands is Jersey, a self-governing British Crown dependency with a centuries-old history.
The Garden State's Name: A Journey to Jersey
In the 17th century, the land that would become New Jersey was part of a larger territory called New Netherland, claimed by the Dutch. However, in 1664, the English seized control of the region. Sir George Carteret, a key figure in the English conquest, was granted the eastern portion of the newly acquired land.
Carteret had a deep connection to the Isle of Jersey. He had served as its governor and had valiantly defended it during the English Civil War. To honor his ties to the island, he named his new territory "New Jersey." The western portion of the land was granted to Lord John Berkeley, who became the colony's proprietors.
The Legacy of the Name
The name "New Jersey" has endured for centuries, reflecting the state's historical connection to the Isle of Jersey. It reminds us of the complex interplay of European powers and the individuals who shaped the early colonization of North America.
While the name "New Jersey" is rooted in the past, the state has evolved into a dynamic and diverse place with a unique identity. Today, New Jersey is known for its thriving industries, contributions to American culture, and abundant gardens and farmland, which earned it the nickname "The Garden State."
So, the next time you hear the name "New Jersey," remember its origins on a small island in the English Channel and the historical journey that led to the creation of this vibrant and multifaceted state.
