The Origin of New Jersey’s Name
New Jersey, one of the original 13 colonies that would become the United States, has a unique name that has intrigued historians and curious minds for centuries. The origin of the name "New Jersey" is rooted in the state’s early colonization and the influence of figures like the Duke of York and Sir George Carteret. The name also has ties to the Isle of Jersey, which played a significant role in shaping the state’s identity.
The Early Colonization of New Jersey
The history of New Jersey dates back to the early 17th century, when Dutch and Swedish explorers settled in the region. In 1664, the British took control of the colony, which was then divided into East Jersey and West Jersey. The land was later granted to two proprietors: Sir George Carteret and John Berkeley, the latter of whom sold his share to the Quakers in 1674. The Quakers eventually sold their portion to the crown, which united East and West Jersey in 1702.
The Role of the Duke of York in Naming NJ
The Duke of York, later King James II, played a pivotal role in naming the colony of New Jersey. In 1664, he granted the land to Sir George Carteret and John Berkeley, and it was Carteret who suggested the name "New Jersey" as a nod to his family’s ties to the Isle of Jersey. The Duke approved the name, and it has been used ever since.
The Influence of the Isle of Jersey
The Isle of Jersey, located in the English Channel, was a British possession at the time of New Jersey’s colonization. The Carteret family, who owned land on the Isle of Jersey, played a significant role in shaping the state’s identity by suggesting the name "New Jersey." The island also influenced the state’s flag, which features the same coat of arms as the Isle of Jersey.
The Connection to Sir George Carteret
Sir George Carteret was a prominent figure in New Jersey’s early history. As one of two proprietors of the colony, he played a key role in its development and suggested the name "New Jersey" as a nod to his family’s ties to the Isle of Jersey. Carteret also served as the colony’s first governor and championed religious tolerance, making New Jersey a haven for Quakers and other religious minorities.
The Meaning Behind the Name "New Jersey"
The name "New Jersey" is a combination of two words: "new" and "Jersey." The latter refers to the Isle of Jersey, which was the inspiration for the name, while the former reflects the fact that the land was a new British possession. The name is also a tribute to Sir George Carteret, who owned land on both the Isle of Jersey and in the colony of New Jersey.
The Naming Controversy Surrounding NJ
Despite its long history, the name "New Jersey" has not been without controversy. In the early 20th century, there was a movement to change the state’s name to "Camden," after the city that was then the state’s largest. However, the proposal was ultimately defeated, and the name "New Jersey" remained.
The Official Adoption of the Name "New Jersey"
The name "New Jersey" was officially adopted in 1664, when the Duke of York granted the land to Sir George Carteret and John Berkeley. The name was suggested by Carteret, who wanted to honor his family’s ties to the Isle of Jersey. The Duke approved the name, and it has been used ever since.
The Role of the Lenape Native Americans
The Lenape Native Americans were the original inhabitants of the land that would become New Jersey. They called the region "Lenapehoking," which means "land of the Lenape." While the Lenape were displaced by European settlers, their influence can still be seen in the state’s place names, including the Delaware River, named after the Lenape tribe that once lived along its banks.
The Legacy of New Jersey’s Name
The name "New Jersey" has become synonymous with the state’s identity and culture. It reflects the region’s early colonization, the influence of British figures like the Duke of York and Sir George Carteret, and the ties to the Isle of Jersey. The name has also been the source of controversy, but ultimately remains a source of pride for New Jerseyans.
Conclusion: Understanding the State’s Name
New Jersey’s name is a product of its early colonization, British influence, and ties to the Isle of Jersey. While the name has been the subject of controversy, it remains an important part of the state’s identity and legacy. By understanding the origins of the name "New Jersey," we can gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich history and culture.
References and Further Reading
- "How Did New Jersey Get Its Name?" NJ Spotlight, https://www.njspotlight.com/2015/05/15-05-21-how-did-new-jersey-get-its-name/.
- "New Jersey History Timeline." Division of Travel and Tourism, State of New Jersey, https://www.visitnj.org/new-jersey-history-timeline.
- "New Jersey: Origin of Name." State of New Jersey, https://www.nj.gov/state/archives/njname.html.
