Livingston, New Jersey is an Essex County city that is only about 20 miles from New York City. Today, Livingston is home to about 30,000 citizens that enjoy their close proximity to one of the world's great cities.

History

In 1699, about a hundred Newark residents that wanted to move westward negotiated with the Lenni Lenape Native Americans to purchase the appropriate land. Land was deeded directly to the settlers by the Lenni Lenape in 1702. The purchase price was reportedly £130. Because the settlers did not work with the English, disputes over the property continued for many years. The Livingston area was more actively settled in the mid-18th century, but the land disputes led to the so-called Horseneck Riots of 1745 to 1755. After the War for Independence concluded, the first school was built in 1783, and the township was incorporated in 1811.

Parks and Recreation

Livingston's dedication to the arts is evident at the Riker Hill Art Park. Resident artists occupy more than 40 art studios at the 204-acre complex. One 42-acre parcel in the park used to be a Nike missile tracking base until the federal government sold it to the local government for one dollar. Today, galleries, art instruction and even concerts energize life here. The park also offers inspiring panoramic views of the Essex County countryside.

Attractions and Activities

Only a few miles to the east of Livingston is perhaps the top zoo in the state, Turtle Back Zoo. The zoo is home to over a hundred species of animals from five continents. Kids love the Essex Farm Petting Zoo, and the miniature train is a big hit with them as well. The colorful carousel will enchant visitors of all ages.

Events

Those that love the performing arts will feel at home in Livingston. In 1960, the Livingston Symphony Orchestra was formed. Today, the internationally acclaimed musicians play both locally and in concert halls across Europe and North America. Livingston Community Players has performed theatrical plays like Annie, Oliver! and The Sound of Music. Children in grades two through eight can gain acting experience through the Children's Theatre of Livingston. Livingston is also the home of the New Jersey Ballet and the New Jersey School of Ballet.

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