About Madison Borough, NJ

Established in 1747, the Presbyterian Church anchored Madison Borough's community. The early settlers, predominantly Presbyterians of Anglo-American descent, migrated from Long Island, Elizabethtown, and Newark, seeking land and opportunities. By the early 19th century, Madison, then known as Bottle Hill, welcomed a Catholic Church and the Madison Academy, named after President James Madison. By 1834, the community proudly adopted the name Madison, reflecting its aspirations and homage to the 4th U.S. President.

Early Beginnings

The arrival of the Morris and Essex Railroad in 1837 transformed Madison into a vibrant commuter suburb, connecting it to Newark and New York. This development marked a shift from a village to a dynamic community, spurring residential and commercial growth centered around the new railroad station.

Commercial & Residential Growth

Madison's natural beauty and railroad access facilitated its evolution into a suburban residential haven from the mid-19th century onward. Commercial development thrived near the railroad station, creating a bustling downtown, while the town retained a pedestrian-friendly layout with neighborhoods within walking distance of the core. The area also saw the rise of grand estates owned by industry leaders who commuted to New York City, adding to the town's charm and economic diversity.

Millionaire's Row

Madison Avenue, famously known as Millionaire’s Row in the late 19th century, housed affluent estates requiring skilled labor. Italian immigrants, attracted by opportunities in landscape gardening and masonry, settled in Madison, enriching the town's cultural tapestry.

Gardening & Roses in Madison

Madison's reputation as a center for greenhouse cultivation of flowers, especially roses, earned it the nickname "The Rose City" by 1889. Greenhouses dotted the landscape, supplying New York florists with millions of cut roses annually. Although the last commercial greenhouses closed in the 1970s, the legacy of Madison's floral industry endures in its town logo and street names like Rose Avenue.

Community Philanthropy

Madison's affluent residents championed Progressive ideals, influencing the town through political and philanthropic efforts. Notable contributions include the donation of land for Waverly Place in 1877, the architecturally significant Webb Chapel in 1887, the free public library and park by D. Willis James in 1900, and the Hartley Dodge Memorial (Town Hall) by Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge in 1935. These gifts have shaped Madison's downtown, reflecting a tradition of local generosity.

Preserving & Developing Madison

As Madison evolved into a mature, built-out community, it faced the challenge of balancing historic preservation with modern development. The 20th century saw the subdivision of 19th-century estates for residential use, with remnants like estate walls and specimen trees hinting at the past.

Looking Ahead

Madison's commitment to preserving its historic core led to the creation of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) in 1993. Together with the Downtown Development Commission, the Sign and Façade Committee, and other groups, the HPC works to maintain the character and vibrancy of Madison's unique downtown, ensuring the town remains a cherished blend of past and future.