Nestled within the heart of Somerset County lies the thriving, tight-knit community of Martinsville, NJ. Characterized by its vibrant history, bustling Washington Valley Road, and the tranquility of its residential neighborhoods, Martinsville’s appeal lies in its harmonious blend of progress and tradition.
Nestled within Bridgewater Township, the unincorporated community of Martinsville sits in the heart of Somerset County, New Jersey.
This primarily residential enclave exudes an affluent ambiance, boasting its own commercial center situated along Washington Valley Road. Martinsville's past is etched deeply into the fabric of America's rich history.
During the American Revolutionary War, Martinsville was home to the Middlebrook encampment, a strategic fortress for the Continental Army, and an invaluable watch post overlooking the plains towards New Brunswick.
Interestingly, it was here that the first official flag of the United States was proudly unfurled following the passage of the law to adopt a national flag by Congress in 1777.
The Middlebrook encampment in Martinsville carries immense historical significance. It's said that here, the Thirteen Star Flag fluttered day and night at the Washington Camp Ground, formerly part of the Middlebrook encampment, in Bridgewater.
Since 1889, this event has been commemorated annually every July 4th, featuring the changing of the flag, a reading of the United States Declaration of Independence, and a historical address.
This celebration of Martinsville's history adds an intriguing layer to its charm, blending a vibrant past with the community's thriving present.
Martinsville is a diverse tapestry of ethnicities:
| Ethnic Group | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| White (Non-Hispanic) | 76.5 |
| Asian (Non-Hispanic) | 14.5 |
| Two+ (Non-Hispanic) | 2.85 |
| White (Hispanic) | 2.78 |
| Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) | 2.39 |
Interestingly, despite the diversity, all households in Martinsville report English as their primary shared language, further fostering a sense of community.
The community's economy is robust, evident in the median home price of $591,900 in 2020, and a substantial homeownership rate of 95.1%. Additionally, the median household income here has seen a significant increase, rising to $172,793, reflecting the area's robust economy and affluent population.
Martinsville's strategic location within Somerset County makes commuting a breeze for its residents. Most people in Martinsville, NJ primarily use personal vehicles to commute, with an average of 2 cars per household.
The average commute time is 32.5 minutes, largely influenced by the proximity of major transport routes, including Interstate 287 and Route 22. Public transport services, such as the NJ Transit bus routes 114 and 117, connect Martinsville with nearby towns such as Bridgewater, Somerville, and New Brunswick.
For long-distance travel, Martinsville, NJ residents have convenient access to Newark Liberty International Airport, approximately 30 miles away.
Additionally, Newark’s Amtrak station offers service to major East Coast cities, ensuring that Martinsville stays well-connected.
Furthermore, the town's commercial center runs along the bustling Washington Valley Road, bringing daily conveniences closer to home. With these transport facilities, Martinsville upholds its promise of offering a quality suburban lifestyle within Somerset County.
Martinsville, NJ houses two schools, ensuring quality education for its young residents.
The Pingry School offers an enriched curriculum for grades 6 to 12, and the Little Friends of Jesus Nursery School operates under the supervision of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen.
Martinsville is also a part of the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District (BRRSD).
Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District (BRRSD) has been honored for the fifth consecutive year as a "Best Community for Music Education" by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation (NAMM), signifying the community's commitment to fostering comprehensive educational experiences.
Moreover, the town's location provides easy access to higher education institutions, such as Rutgers University and Raritan Valley Community College, further enhancing the prospects for lifelong learning in this Somerset County enclave.
There's more to Martinsville than meets the eye. With popular landmarks such as the Hacklebarney State Park and Duke Farms, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.
The former offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, while the latter is a sprawling estate with nature trails, gardens, and educational programs. Lastly, the legendary Devil’s Tree adds an air of mystery to the community, further emphasizing the uniqueness of Martinsville.
Martinsville, NJ offers a truly wholesome experience, combining a rich historical background, a thriving educational landscape, and a plethora of lifestyle amenities. Its lush natural settings and gastronomic wonders create a pleasing environment for its residents.
Transport connectivity, with easy access to major highways and Newark Liberty International Airport, ensures that travel, whether local or international, is never an inconvenience.
All these elements make Martinsville a desirable location, blending the quiet charm of a small town with the conveniences of urban living. If you seek a suburban haven within scenic Somerset County, Martinsville could just be the ideal place for you.
