Harding, New Jersey

HARDING, NEW JERSEY: Incorporated May 9, 1922, Harding Township is a picturesque community with gentle rolling hills and numerous estates. It is about 30% undeveloped and is approximately 25 miles west of Manhattan.

In 1727, one John Lindsley acquired a 1250 acre tract of land which marked the center geographically and politically of the area that was to become Harding Township two centuries later. Harding Township was one of the last municipalities formed in Morris County separating from Passaic Township in 1922, but its lands were some of the first to be settled. The 18th century inhabitants were English or New England born and their houses reflected those building traditions. During the Revolutionary War, Washington’s troops encamped at Jockey Hollow during the bitter winter of 1779-80. By the end of the 19th century, the unspoiled rural area became the site of numerous magnificent estates. Harding was named by its republican founder Warren G. Harding. Development was kept to a minimum for the next 50 years. Numerous historical buildings are still evident in the gentle, rolling hills of this picturesque community. The township is also noted for its bridle paths and horse farms. On the west and south, Harding includes most of the acreage found in the Great Swamp Wildlife Refuge. Also located within the township’s limits are portions of two Morris County Parks, a year round lake community and a lake for resident skating in winter.