“Watchung” comes from the Lenni Lenape Native Americans, meaning “high hills.” The Borough of Watchung was organized on April 20, 1926 and incorporated by the NJ Legislature on May 23, 1926. Watchung is approximately 6.2 square miles and is located in Somerset County. Watchung was settled in the early eighteenth century and grew slowly until recent years. In 1960 the population was 3,312 and rose to 5,613 in 2000. The last US Census has Watchung with 6,449 residents. Watchung is know for its scenic mountains, family-oriented community, highly rated schools and commuting convenience.

Around 1670, a group of Dutch settlers was traveling from the Amboys up an old Indian trail which is now Somerset Street. They were under the leadership of Captain Michaelson. The Watchung tribe of the Lenni-Lenape Indians was traveling the same trail for their summer trip to the ocean to fish and collect shells for wampum.
During the night the settlers were camped near what is now the center of the Borough. Deer Prong, an advance scout for Chief One Feather's tribe, was shot when he surprised a sentry. During the skirmish, Captain Michaelson was captured and was to be burned at the stake. Princess Wetumpka, who was traveling with the Dutch, and had some years ago saved the life of Chief One Feather, intervened and saved the life of Captain Michaelson. The Indians befriended the Dutch and allowed them to settle in the valley. The legend ends with the full tribal ceremony marriage of the Princess and Chief.

For more information on Watchung history please consider visiting the Texier House Museum or https://www.watchunghistory.org/.

Both the Museum and the webpage are staffed, organized, and maintained by the volunteers of the Historical Committee. They are continuously working very hard to preserve and protect Watchung's history!

The Texier House Museum is typically open the 1st & 3rd Sunday of each month from 2pm to 4pm, but be sure to periodically check the main calendar for any updates or event closings. Admission is FREE. Donations are always greatly appreciated.