Freehold, NJ
Music connected to Freehold
About Freehold
- • Bruce Springsteen, "The Boss", was born in Long Branch, NJ, but spent his childhood in Freehold.
- • The Molly Pitcher Service Area on the NJ Turnpike honors the Revolutionary War heroine.
- • Freehold became a county seat due to its central location and growing importance in 1714.
- • A time capsule buried in 1969 at the Freehold Raceway Mall remains unopened until 2069.
- • A devastating fire in 1845 destroyed much of Freehold's business district, prompting rebuilding.
- • Named "Freehold" in 1693, it implied land ownership free from feudal dues; incorporated in 1919.
- • With over 12,000 residents, Freehold boasts a population smaller than many nearby townships.
- • At 141 feet above sea level, it's higher than the nearby coastal plains, giving it a drier climate.
- • Healthcare and retail trades are prominent, reflecting Freehold's role as a regional hub.
- • There is a cozy, historical feel, with a blend of small-town charm and modern convenience.
- • The New York Giants, while not in Freehold, hold training camp memories for many local fans.
- • Freehold Raceway, the oldest half-mile harness racing track in the U.S., hosted its first race in 1853.