Bernardsville: A Charming Borough with a Rich History
Nestled at the northernmost tip of Somerset County, Bernardsville is a picturesque borough with a population of around 7,800. Just an hour west of New York City, it offers a blend of small-town charm and convenient access to urban amenities. Residents and visitors enjoy a vibrant community with a range of services, including parks, shopping, boutiques, a local farmers market, a cozy bookstore, a movie theater, and a variety of restaurants. The town is also home to a convenient train station, making it easy to commute into the city.
A Glimpse into Bernardsville’s Rich History
The late 1800s to the 1930s marked the height of the Gilded Age for Bernardsville, a period that saw the area transformed into a sought-after retreat for New York’s wealthiest residents. Drawn by the cool mountain breezes, these affluent city dwellers purchased vast estates on Bernardsville Mountain. The Passaic Valley and Peapack Railroad, known as the “Millionaire’s Express,” catered to their travel needs, providing convenient access from Hoboken and leading to local carriage traffic jams as the elite arrived at their country homes.
The influx of wealthy residents brought with it a focus on recreation and leisure. In 1890, Charles Pfizer, the son of the founder of the Pfizer pharmaceutical company, acquired the Essex Hunt Club from West Orange and relocated it to Bernardsville in 1892. This relocation occurred at “The Maples,” a historic home once owned by the Seney family. Though Pfizer eventually moved the Hunt Club to Peapack, his corporate legacy would remain in the area for over a century.
In 1924, tensions between Bernardsville’s residents and neighboring Bernards Township (now Basking Ridge) led to a pivotal moment in the town’s history. After a failed vote, a second referendum resulted in Bernardsville becoming its own independent borough on April 24, 1924, following an act of the State Legislature.
Today’s Bernardsville: A Vibrant Community with a Diverse Identity
Today, Bernardsville continues to thrive as a dynamic, welcoming town. Its distinct neighborhoods, such as the “Mountain Colony,” “The Downtown Area,” and “Little Paraguay” (formerly known as “Little Italy”), reflect its rich cultural history and community spirit. The area once known as “Little Italy” was home to immigrant workers employed by the wealthy residents on the mountain and is now a vibrant transitional neighborhood, blending young families with older generations.
The town’s culinary scene is a major draw, with acclaimed fine dining establishments like Ristorante MV, Sette, Toca Vez, and Red Horse by David Burke attracting food lovers from near and far. Bernardsville’s unique blend of history, culture, and modern conveniences makes it a desirable place to live, work, and visit.