New Jersey, known for its bustling cities and dense population, also harbors some of the smallest municipalities in the United States. These tiny towns, each with its unique history and charm, offer a glimpse into a quieter, more intimate side of the Garden State. Let’s explore some of these diminutive communities, delving into their origins, characteristics, and the reasons behind their minimal populations.

Walpack Township: A Ghost Town in the Making

Nestled in Sussex County, Walpack Township holds the title of New Jersey’s smallest town, with a population of just seven residents as of the 2020 Census. This significant decline from 16 residents in 2010 is attributed to a proposed dam project in 1955, which led to the acquisition of land through eminent domain and the subsequent departure of many residents. Although the dam was never constructed, the township never regained its population, leaving behind a near-abandoned community.

Tavistock: A Borough Born for Golf

With a population that increased from five in 2010 to nine in 2020, Tavistock in Camden County is one of New Jersey‘s tiniest boroughs. Established to allow members of the Tavistock Country Club to play golf on Sundays—circumventing local blue laws that prohibited such activities—the borough’s name originates from an estate in England owned by early settlers

Shiloh: A Sanctuary for Religious Freedom

Founded in 1705 by Robert Ayars, Shiloh in Cumberland County became a haven for over 2,000 Seventh Day Baptists seeking relief from religious persecution in Rhode Island. Initially known as Cohansey Crossing, the name was changed to Shiloh in 1771. Today, it remains a dry town, prohibiting the sale of alcohol, although a local winery operates within the borough.

Essex Fells: An Exclusive Enclave

Essex Fells, the smallest municipality in Essex County, is characterized by its lack of apartment buildings, office complexes, traffic lights, and, until recently, condominiums. The borough’s name combines “Essex” from the county and “Fells,” meaning hills or downs. In 2016, New Jersey Family magazine ranked Essex Fells as the best town for families, highlighting its exclusive and serene environment.

Newfield: A Community’s Determination

Formed as a borough in 1924 from portions of Franklin Township, Newfield’s name reflects its status as a new-field development. Prior to its establishment, 240 residents traveled to Trenton to lobby for independence, showcasing the community’s determination. Notably, Newfield is home to Sweet Amalia Market and Kitchen, which was featured in The New York Times’ 2024 list of the 50 best restaurants in the U.S New Jersey.

East Newark: A Historic Industrial Hub

East Newark, the smallest municipality in Hudson County and the second-smallest in the state, was established on July 2, 1895, from portions of Kearny. This suburb of Newark is home to the Clark Thread Co. Historic District, reflecting its rich industrial past.

Cape May Point: A Dry Town with Soaring Property Values

Cape May Point, located in Cape May County, is one of New Jersey‘s least populous towns, partly because it is a dry town where the sale of alcohol is prohibited by law. In 2021, the median price for a house exceeded $1 million, the highest on Cape Island. The borough’s limited commercial activity includes a bird shop and a general store, preserving its tranquil atmosphere.

Mantoloking: Resilience Amidst Natural Disasters

Mantoloking, a coastal borough and the smallest municipality in Ocean County, derives its name from the Lenni Lenape Native Americans. In 2012, Superstorm Sandy devastated the community, destroying 90% of properties. Since then, Mantoloking has demonstrated resilience, rebuilding and reinforcing its coastal defenses to withstand future storms.

Loch Arbour: Preserving Independence

Loch Arbour, a village in Monmouth County with a population of 224, was formed to prevent the development of beachfront condos. In 1997 and again in 2011, residents voted against merging with neighboring municipalities, choosing to preserve their autonomy and the village’s unique character.

Victory Gardens: A Wartime Housing Project

Victory Gardens, the smallest municipality in Morris County, was established during World War II as a housing project for defense workers at the Kearny shipyards. Streets are named after New Jersey U.S. presidents, and the borough’s name reflects the victory gardens planted during the war. In 1951, residents voted to become an independent municipality, separating from Randolph Township.

Winfield: A Community Rooted in Defense Housing

Winfield, the smallest municipality in Union County New Jersey, was created in 1941 as a housing project for defense workers. The project faced opposition from nearby residents but ultimately became its own municipality. Since the 1940s, Winfield has maintained much of its original character, reflecting its unique origins.

These small towns of New Jersey, each with its distinct history and characteristics, contribute to the rich tapestry of the state’s cultural and social landscape. Their stories highlight themes of resilience, community determination, and the diverse paths that have shaped these municipalities into the unique enclaves they are today.