Morris County NJ

A History of Washington Valley New Jersey

Washington Valley plotted from earliest available deeds

In 1949 a committee came together to prepare a history of Washington Valley New Jersey. From its origins as a settlement in 1749 through the pivotal moments of the Revolutionary War and into the nineteenth century, they delve into the lives of the early families who once called this valley home. Despite the challenges of piecing together a fragmented historical record, their endeavor aims to illuminate the valley’s heritage, drawing on a diverse array of sources, from land deeds and wills to personal anecdotes and genealogical research. This book is free to read or to download as a PDF.

Genealogies of the First Settlers of Passaic Valley

Family Records or Genealogies of the First Settlers of Passaic Valley and Vicinity

Passaic Valley in New Jersey was first settled in the early 1700’s, primarily by families from Long Island, New York and Connecticut. The Family records, or, Genealogies of the first settlers of Passaic Valley and vicinity above Chatham provides genealogies of these early settlers from family records when they could be obtained, otherwise the author used family members to provide the information. Since some of the information comes from memory of individuals, one should validate what is written before relying on it to greatly.

Biography of Hon. Ezra Scollay Stearns

Hon. Ezra Scollay Stearns, born September 1, 1838, in Rindge, New Hampshire, served as Secretary of State from 1891, demonstrating exceptional qualifications. His lineage includes distinguished connections to the Colonial Fitch family, and he has a rich educational background from public schools and Chester Institute. Stearns was influential in the Republican Party and served multiple terms in the New Hampshire legislature. An accomplished writer, he authored notable local histories and actively participated in various historical societies, earning a Master of Arts from Dartmouth in 1887.

Biography of Colonel Jacob H. Bartles

Colonel Jacob H. Bartles, born in New Jersey in 1842, was a pivotal figure in Oklahoma’s development, founding Bartlesville and Dewey. A Civil War veteran, he contributed significantly to community progress by establishing essential utilities, promoting education, and engaging in various businesses. Bartles was noted for his entrepreneurial spirit, building the first flour mill in Indian Territory and fostering agricultural advancements. His dedication to public service extended to charitable endeavors, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and community leadership upon his passing in 1908.

Biographical Sketch of Caleb Horton

Caleb Horton, born on December 22, 1687, in Cutchogue, was the son of Barnabas Hotrod. He married Phebe Terry on December 10, 1714, and together they were active members of the Southold church. In 1748, they relocated to what is now Chester, New Jersey. Caleb passed away on August 6, 1772, followed by Phebe on December 24, 1776. They had ten children, including Nathaniel, born on October 13, 1719.

Biographical Sketch of Nathaniel Horton

Nathaniel Horton, born on October 13, 1719, in Southold, was the son of Caleb Horton. He married Mehitabel Wells around 1740, and they relocated to Chester, New Jersey, in 1748. Mehitabel passed away on December 10, 1801, followed by Nathaniel on January 24, 1804. They had several children, including Deacon Nathaniel, Benjamin, David, Daniel, Polly, and Mehitabel, each contributing to the family’s lineage in various ways.

Biographical Sketch of Elisha Horton

Elisha Horton, born around 1777 in Chester as the son of Deacon Nathaniel Horton, married his second cousin Polly Horton around 1800. The couple relocated to Scipio, New York, where they lived for the rest of their lives. They had several children, including Isaiah, Aaron, Phebe (who married Stephen Robinson), and Esther (who married Warren R. Atwood), all born in Chester.

Biographical Sketch of Isaiah Horton

Isaiah Horton, born in Chester, New Jersey, on May 22, 1873, was the son of Elisha Horton and a carpenter by trade. He served in the War of 1812 and married Charlotte Chatfield in Aurelius, New York, on January 31, 1817. Charlotte passed away in 1854. They had ten children, including Amarilla, Elisha, Miranda, and Hiram, with several marrying prominent local figures. Isaiah’s life spanned various roles and familial contributions in 19th-century America.