Sesquicentennial Historical Address — Sussex County, NJ sounds like a solemn and impressive bit of history.
This address, By Francis J. Swaze, part of the sesquicentennial observance of Sussex County, was delivered at Newton, NJ on September 2, 1903. While it claims only to be accurate through the Civil War, it’s interesting that the extractive industries (iron and various other minerals) get short shrift here despite their role in American history beginning with the Revolution – or even before; “The Old Mine Road” is one of the oldest thoroughfares mentioned in colonial-era literature. As we look at the history of this county today, we see these industries as perhaps the most important part of the county’s history.
That said, we understand and appreciate the traditional emphasis on farming and related aspects of country life, and exploits with regard to the native Americans and in the Revolution as being of greatest interest to the audience for these remarks back over a century ago. In addition to the history captured in this address, one can read it to get a better sense of priorities in American thought over a century ago. Further, considering this was an address to people who lived in the county a long time, and whose ancestors were likely among those mentioned, this would have been a crown-pleaser.
All in all, it’s a useful document! And it’s now available for download.
Read more about it on our New Jersey page!