About Milford, NJ
West Milford Township is located in New Jersey with a population of 26,355. West Milford Township is in Passaic County. Living in West Milford Township offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. The public schools in West Milford Township are above average.
History of Milford, NJ
West Milford was settled by the Lenni Lenape Indians, a peaceful tribe, that sold their land to the English and moved south. Later, English, Dutch, and German settlers realized the potential and wealth of West Milford from trapping and mining and began to develop communities. The forest provided fine habitat for wildlife which was prolific. Animal pelts that were extremely valuable in the Old World were easy to come by in West Milford; thus, trapping became a main source of income for the early settlers.
The first industry in West Milford came with the discovery of iron ore. The essential resources necessary for the iron industry were moving water and wood which were in abundant supply and furnaces sprung up throughout the town. A few still remain as testimony of the Township’s early development. The Township’s development continued as people discovered the beautiful countryside, lakes, streams, and mountains, and West Milford emerged as an early resort community. Summer cottages began to spring up everywhere, particularly along the lakefronts. It remained a summer community until the late 1960’s when its potential as a year round residence was realized. Wise planning in the following years will help maximize the Town’s growth without sacrificing its semi-rural character.
