Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary: NJ Transit introduces 'Jersey Journeys', an interactive guidemap spotlighting historic locations reachable via bus and train services.

Celebrating New Jersey's Historical Roots: NJ Transit Launches Interactive Map "Jersey Journeys"

In a bid to celebrate New Jersey's rich history and essential role in the United States of America's democracy, NJ Transit has launched an interactive map called "Jersey Journeys: Every Stop Tells a Story." The initiative, part of NJ Transit's broader campaign, joins other projects like "Transit to Trails" and "Pizza & Pints."

The map, which is part of a nonprofit organization that relies on financial support from readers for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information, showcases over 150 historic sites in New Jersey with ties to America's birth 250 years ago. Mike Keeler, communications manager for Crossroads of the American Revolution and Revolution NJ, highlighted that the state's history doesn't even really get going until the fall of the year, with Washington crossing the Delaware in December.

One of the transit-accessible sites tied to the Revolutionary War is the Old Tennent Presbyterian Church in Manalapan, which served as a field hospital for the Continental Army during the Battle of Monmouth in 1778. Another site is Captain Joseph Buck Waterfront Park in Millville, which honours a war captain and Millville's founder.

The map also includes other historical sites like the final resting place for famed poet Walt Whitman in Camden and the Burlington County Prison Museum. Kris Kolluri, NJ Transit CEO, stated that New Jersey is not just the Garden State, but also the history state.

State Sen. Patrick Diegnan Jr. expressed that New Jersey doesn't do enough to celebrate its historical roots. This new initiative by NJ Transit aims to change that, providing trip-planning information for these historic sites that can be accessed by NJ Transit services.

"Pizza & Pints," another project, helps people plan trips to over 165 pizzerias, breweries, wineries, and distilleries in New Jersey. The map's creation is part of a broader effort to celebrate the great and special state of New Jersey and its contributions to the nation's history.

According to Keeler, a seven-year run through the American Revolution will be celebrated, starting from the next Fourth of July. He added that there will be people alive that will be 5 or 6 years old when this event is over, who aren't even alive yet.

In addition to "Jersey Journeys," NJ Transit has also launched "Transit to Trails," which provides trip-planning information for more than 40 parks across the state. The map is part of a larger effort by the state to mark America's birthday in 2026, officials said.

With these initiatives, NJ Transit aims to encourage residents and visitors alike to explore and appreciate the state's rich history and natural beauty, making New Jersey a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary: NJ Transit introduces 'Jersey Journeys', an interactive guidemap spotlighting historic locations reachable via bus and train services.