History of Ringwood, NJ

Ringwood, New Jersey is nestled in the Ramapo Mountains of Passaic County. Long before European settlers arrived, the area was home to the Lenape people, who lived among its forests, rivers, and rocky hills.

The town was officially founded in 1740 by the Ogden family of Newark. But Ringwood’s real rise began in 1742, when iron ore was discovered and blast furnaces were built. The iron industry boomed, and in 1764, German industrialist Peter Hasenclever established Ringwood Manor—a bustling iron “plantation” where workers lived and labored.

During the Revolutionary War, Ringwood played a strategic role. Robert Erskine, who managed the ironworks, also served as George Washington’s mapmaker. The area’s iron helped forge weapons and supplies for the Continental Army.

In the 19th century, Ringwood’s iron industry continued under Martin Ryerson, who expanded operations and built roads, dams, and homes. The town also became known for its natural beauty, with lakes, forests, and historic trails winding through the hills.