History of Haddonfield

Haddonfield, New Jersey, is a borough located in Camden County with a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1713. Named after Elizabeth Haddon, an early settler who arrived in the area in 1701, Haddonfield has grown from a quaint Quaker community into a charming and vibrant suburb of Philadelphia.

The land that would become Haddonfield was purchased from the Lenni Lenape Native Americans by Francis Collins, an English Quaker. It was Elizabeth Haddon, the daughter of a prominent Quaker landowner, who established the community. She married John Estaugh, a fellow Quaker minister, and their home became a hub for the growing town.

In 1777, during the American Revolutionary War, Haddonfield was the site of a significant skirmish. British troops were engaged by American forces, leading to the Battle of Red Bank. The town's historical significance continued as it became a center for education, with the founding of the Haddonfield Academy in 1797, which attracted students from across the region.

The discovery of the first nearly complete dinosaur skeleton in North America, Hadrosaurus foulkii, by William Parker Foulke in 1858, put Haddonfield on the map for paleontologists and history enthusiasts alike. This momentous find is commemorated by a statue in the center of town.

Today, Haddonfield is known for its well-preserved historic district, with numerous buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its downtown area, lined with shops, restaurants, and boutiques, along with its proximity to Philadelphia, makes it an attractive place for residents and visitors. The town's commitment to preserving its history while fostering a close-knit community spirit makes Haddonfield a unique and desirable place to live.