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Mercer County, New Jersey

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Parent: Princeton, New Jersey Hop 4
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Mercer County, New Jersey
CountyMercer County
StateNew Jersey
Founded1838
SeatTrenton
Largest cityTrenton
Area total sq mi228.94
Area land sq mi224.70
Area water sq mi4.24
Population as of2020
Population total387340
Population density sq miauto
Time zoneEastern
Webwww.mercercounty.org
Named forHugh Mercer
Ex image capMercer County Courthouse

Mercer County, New Jersey is a central county within the U.S. state of New Jersey. Its county seat is Trenton, which also serves as the capital of New Jersey. The county was formed in 1838 from portions of adjacent Burlington, Hunterdon, Middlesex, and Somerset counties and was named for Continental Army General Hugh Mercer, a hero of the American Revolution. Mercer County is a significant economic and cultural hub, anchored by the state government in Trenton and major institutions like Princeton University.

History

The area that now comprises this county was originally inhabited by the Lenape people. European settlement began in the late 17th century, with the region playing a pivotal role during the American Revolutionary War. The Battle of Trenton, a decisive victory for General George Washington following his famous crossing of the Delaware River, occurred here in 1776. In 1790, Trenton briefly served as the national capital. The county's formal establishment in 1838 was part of a broader reorganization of New Jersey's county system. The 19th and 20th centuries saw significant industrial growth, particularly in Trenton, which became known for ceramic production, Rubber manufacturing, and Steel wire, earning the motto "Trenton Makes, The World Takes".

Geography

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 228.94 square miles, of which 224.70 square miles is land and 4.24 square miles is water. It is bordered by Burlington County to the south, Monmouth County to the east, Middlesex County to the northeast, Somerset County to the north, and Hunterdon County to the northwest, with the Delaware River forming its western border with Pennsylvania. Major waterways include the Delaware and Raritan Canal and Assunpink Creek. The terrain transitions from the coastal plain in the southeast to higher elevations in the northwest, with parts of the county included in the New Jersey Pine Barrens.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 387,340. The racial makeup was diverse, with significant populations identifying as White, Black or African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino. The county is home to a wide range of communities, from the urban center of Trenton to affluent suburbs like Princeton and West Windsor, and more rural townships such as Hopewell Township. Institutions like Princeton University and the Thomas Edison State University contribute to a highly educated populace.

Government

Mercer County operates under a Board of County Commissioners form of government. The county is part of New Jersey's 12th, 14th, and 15th legislative districts and is represented in the U.S. House by members from the 3rd and 12th congressional districts. The New Jersey State Capitol complex is located in Trenton, housing the Legislature, the Governor's office, and the New Jersey Supreme Court.

Economy

The economy is diversified, with major sectors including government, education, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. As the state capital, Trenton is a center for public administration. Princeton University is a major employer and driver of research and innovation. The county is also a hub for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, with companies like Bristol Myers Squibb and Johnson & Johnson having a significant presence. Other notable employers include the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Rider University, and the Capital Health System.

Education

The county is served by numerous public school districts, including the Trenton Public Schools and the Princeton Public Schools. It is renowned for higher education, anchored by the prestigious Ivy League institution Princeton University. Other notable colleges and universities include The College of New Jersey in Ewing, Rider University in Lawrence Township, Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, and Mercer County Community College with campuses in West Windsor and Trenton.

Transportation

Major highways serving the county include Interstate 95 (the New Jersey Turnpike), Interstate 195, Interstate 295, U.S. Route 1, and U.S. Route 206. Public transportation is provided by NJ Transit, offering extensive bus service and commuter rail lines on the Northeast Corridor and Princeton Branch lines, connecting to New York City and Philadelphia. The Trenton–Mercer Airport in Ewing offers commercial air service, while general aviation is served by Princeton Airport.

Category:Mercer County, New Jersey Category:1838 establishments in New Jersey Category:Counties in New Jersey