Incorporated in 1740, Morris Township in Morris County is an idyllic community of about 15 square miles containing rolling hills, open space and established neighborhoods. Often referred to as a "donut township" since it surrounds Morristown, it shares a school system and library with Morristown, although both maintain separate municipal and public services.

The township motto: "A community rich in history with a constant striving for a better tomorrow," reflects the feeling of preservationists and the local government, who are devoted to acquiring open space while keeping large-scale development at bay.

Morris Township is one of the most affluent areas in the County. Major corporations including Honeywell and Mennen have their headquarters in the township.

Many residents commute into New York City about 35 miles west, catching the train in Convent Station, Morris Plains or Morristown. The township enjoys a location close to many museums, entertainment venues, restaurants and shops due to its close proximity to Morristown.

History

Morris Township was originally formed in 1740. Portions of the township were taken on December 24, 1740 to form Roxbury Township, and on March 29, 1749, to form Mendham Township.

During the winter of 1777, George Washington's Continental Army camped in the deep snows of Jockey Hollow, which is now part of the National Park system in Morris Township.

Morris Township was incorporated as a township by an Act of the New Jersey Legislature on February 21, 1798.

Community Life

Memorial Day is cause for civic festivities and pride, with recognition beginning in Morris Township and ending at the historic Morristown Green. Summer concerts at Ginty Field are another popular tradition.

Convent Station is a popular section of Morris Township. In addition to being a stop along the Morristown train line for over 100 years, the Morris Museum, the Morris Township Municipal Building and Morris Township Police headquarters are all located there. Convent Station is also home to The College of Saint Elizabeth.

While Morris Township doesn't have its own downtown shopping area, it is minutes from the eclectic boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, restaurants, cultural events, movie theater, performing arts center and historic sites in nearby Morristown.

Education

The Morris School District serves public school students in Morris Township, Morristown and Morris Plains. Within the district are three primary schools for kindergarten to grade two, three intermediate schools for grades three to five, one multi-age magnet school for kindergarten through grade five, one middle school serving sixth to eighth graders, and Morristown High School.

The Academy of St. Elizabeth is a private high school for girls in Convent Station. It is the oldest girls' high school in New Jersey.

The College of Saint Elizabeth is a private Roman Catholic, four-year, liberal arts college for women, located in Convent Station. The college was founded in 1899 by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth of New Jersey.

Transportation

Convent Station has a New Jersey Transit rail station on the Morristown Line, located on the grounds of the College of Saint Elizabeth. It provides Midtown Direct service to Penn Station in New York. Other nearby rail stations are in Morris Plains and Morristown.

Major roadways passing through Morris Township include Routes 24, 124, 202 and Interstate 287. Nearby is easy access to Interstates 78 and 80 as well as Routes 10 and 46.

Real Estate

Morris Township offers a variety of homes ranging from luxurious new construction to spacious older homes set along tree-lined streets. There are also picturesque dwellings dating back to Colonial times, attractive condominium complexes and stylish townhome communities. A small sample of architectural styles includes beautiful Victorian homes, country estates and elaborate mansions.

Parks

With an abundance of parkland and pastoral scenery, Morris Township offers endless recreational opportunities. A local favorite is the Mennen Sports Arena with three ice skating rinks. Morris Township is also home to Fosterfields Living Historical Farm, a unique Victorian era working farm highlighting the area's agricultural heritage. The park offers programs and tours throughout the year.

The Morris County Park System oversees Fosterfields, Frelinghuysen Arboretum, Loantaka Brook Reservation, Patriots Path, Traction Line Recreation Trail and the Mennen Sports Arena.

There are two township swimming and tennis facilities: Streeter Pool and Tennis in the western section of the township and the Ginty Field complex in the eastern section.

Seaton Hackney Stables complex is situated on a 38-acre fenced property. It includes an indoor barn and outdoor barn, 50 straight and box stalls of various sizes. There is an expansive list of activities for all ages including riding lessons in hunt seat equitation, balance seat, combined training, show jumping and dressage.

Local Attractions

Fosterfields Living Historical Farm at Kahdena and Mendham Roads is a historically accurate re-creation of a Victorian era working farm.

Morristown National Historical Park, the country's first national park, has portions within Morris Township, most notably Jockey Hollow.

The Morris Museum at 6 Normandy Heights Road is dedicated to the performing and visual arts as well as science and history. The grounds include live entertainment, plays and special events for all ages at the Bickford Theatre.

Fun Fact: The Morris Township Recreation Department sponsors many family-friendly courses and events such as Family Karaoke Night, Girls Fashion Club, Children's Arts & Crafts, Mother-Son Fun Night, Kids' Pottery, Children's Sewing, Music in Motion for toddlers, and Chess Club for grade school students. Additionally, there is an active community sports program for school-age children and adults.