The Saddle River flows south through much of Bergen County, New Jersey. The river runs through densely populated suburban areas for much of its course. The river takes its name from the river near Saddell in Argyll and Bute in Scotland.

The headwaters of the Saddle River are in the piedmont terrain of Rockland County, in southern New York state. Streams from this area flow south, forming the Saddle River at their confluence, two miles south of the New York state border, in the town of Upper Saddle River, New Jersey.

From its feeder streams in Upper Saddle River and the source in Airmont, New York, the Saddle River continues south for 16.3 miles, passing through the towns of Saddle River, Waldwick, Ho-Ho-Kus, Ridgewood, Glen Rock, Paramus, Fair Lawn, Rochelle Park, Saddle Brook, Lodi, Garfield, and Wallington.

The Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, a major tributary, joins the Saddle River at the Dunkerhook area of Saddle River County Park. Their confluence marks the border of four Bergen County towns: Ridgewood, Paramus, Glen Rock and Fair Lawn.

The terminus of the Saddle River is at Garfield and Wallington, where the waterway empties into the Passaic River. The Passaic River drains at Newark Bay and via Arthur Kill and Kill van Kull to the Atlantic Ocean. The northern part of the Saddle River watershed drains an area between the Ramapo River watershed to the west, and the Hackensack River watershed to the east.

​Fish species in the Saddle River include largemouth bass, Brown bullhead, yellow bullhead, longnose dace, white sucker, tessellated darter, blacknose dace, various species of sunfish, American eel, carp and different varieties of trout.[2][3] Most of the trout are stocked by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, although the uppermost reaches of the river and some of its tributaries hold wild brown trout. These wild trout are threatened by increased residential use of lawn fertilizer which contributes to algae and weed growth.

Tributaries  Ho-Ho-Kus Brook
​

Food, Farms & Markets of the Saddle River Valley

​The Saddle River Valley was once one of Bergen County's most productive agricultural regions. From the Dutch settlement era through the early twentieth century, local farms supplied milk, butter, eggs, poultry, fruits, vegetables, and grains to markets in Paterson, Newark, and New York City. Horse-drawn wagons traveled the valley's roads before dawn to deliver produce to urban marketplaces, while dairies, orchards, celery fields, poultry farms, and family-owned general stores formed the backbone of the local economy. Although suburban development transformed much of the landscape after World War II, the agricultural heritage of the Saddle River Valley remains visible through historic farmhouses, preserved open spaces, and the enduring stories of the families who fed northern New Jersey for generations. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [localhisto...ibrary.org], [en.wikipedia.org]

The common theme throughout the valley is that most communities began as Dutch farming settlements where dairy farming, orchard production, vegetables, grains, poultry, and local market wagons supplied Paterson, Newark, and New York City. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s accelerated commercial agriculture and food distribution throughout the region. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [localhisto...ibrary.org], [allendalenj.gov]

Allendale

• Originally a farming community with family farms producing grains, vegetables, dairy products, and livestock. [allendalenj.gov], [allendalep...actory.com]
• In 1888, Swiss immigrant Henry J. Appert developed the famous Allendale Produce Gardens, known locally as the “Celery Farm,” supplying wholesale markets and Campbell Soup Company. [en.wikipedia.org]
• The Celery Farm remains one of the area's best-known agricultural landmarks. [en.wikipedia.org]

Ridgewood

• Early Ridgewood was overwhelmingly agricultural, with Dutch families raising livestock and growing grains, corn, milk, butter, and strawberries. [localhisto...ibrary.org]
• Local farmers transported products to regional markets, helping establish Bergen County's food economy. [localhisto...ibrary.org]
• Small mills, blacksmith shops, and agricultural support businesses served the farming community. [localhisto...ibrary.org]

Upper Saddle River

• Large family farms dominated the landscape for more than two centuries. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [usrhistori...ociety.org]
• Farmers raised dairy cattle, poultry, berries, corn, oats, rye, and orchard crops. [usrhistori...ociety.org]
• Produce was hauled by horse-drawn wagons to the Paterson Market, one of northern New Jersey's major food distribution centers. [usrhistori...ociety.org]
• Dairy farmers sold milk through operations such as Eckerson's Dairy in Saddle River. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Saddle River

• Historically known for open farmland, horse farms, dairy operations, and estate agriculture. [en.wikipedia.org]
• The borough's large tracts of land helped preserve agricultural activity longer than many neighboring towns. [en.wikipedia.org]
• Local dairies and produce farms supplied nearby urban populations during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [en.wikipedia.org]

Ho-Ho-Kus

• Settled by Dutch farming families who cultivated crops and raised livestock along the Saddle River corridor. [localhisto...ibrary.org], [allendalenj.gov]
• Its location on early transportation routes made it a collection point for produce moving toward larger markets. [localhisto...ibrary.org]

Ramsey

• Developed from a rural agricultural community with dairy farms, poultry operations, and market gardens. [nwbergenco...living.com], [usrhistori...ociety.org]
• Railroad access encouraged shipment of milk and produce to consumers throughout the metropolitan region. [nwbergenco...living.com]

Waldwick

• The community's early economy centered on family farms producing vegetables, grains, dairy products, and livestock. [allendalenj.gov], [nwbergenco...living.com]
• Railroad connections helped farmers expand from local sales to regional food distribution. [nwbergenco...living.com]

Midland Park

• Originally composed of farmland supplying nearby towns with milk, eggs, vegetables, and fruit. [nwbergenco...living.com], [mywalkinma...hattan.com]
• Agricultural land gradually gave way to residential development during the twentieth century. [nwbergenco...living.com]

Wyckoff

• One of Bergen County's most significant agricultural communities, known historically for dairy farming and produce cultivation. [mywalkinma...hattan.com]
• The township maintained active farms well into the twentieth century and remains associated with Bergen County's farming heritage. [mywalkinma...hattan.com]

Franklin Lakes

• Large farms and orchards once covered much of the community. [nwbergenco...living.com]
• Dairy production and local produce sales were important contributors to the local economy before suburban growth accelerated after World War II. [nwbergenco...living.com], [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Oakland

• Historically connected to the Ramapo and Saddle River agricultural network. [nwbergenco...living.com]
• Farms produced livestock, milk, vegetables, and fruit for local and regional markets. [mywalkinma...hattan.com]

Mahwah

• One of the largest farming areas in northwestern Bergen County through the nineteenth century. [mywalkinma...hattan.com], [nwbergenco...living.com]
• Nearby farms and farm stands helped supply Bergen County residents with fresh produce and dairy products. [mywalkinma...hattan.com]

Woodcliff Lake

• Developed from a landscape of farms and market gardens. [studycountry.com]
• Farmers benefited from proximity to rail transportation and growing suburban populations that created demand for fresh food products. [nwbergenco...living.com]​​

Saddle River Valley Food Heritage (1850-1950)

Allendale
Allendale Produce GardensFounded by Henry J. Appert in 1888 after he drained and improved a large peat bog area that became known as the Celery Farm. The operation grew onions, celery, and lettuce and eventually expanded to more than 100 acres. Products were shipped to metropolitan markets and Campbell Soup. The business remained active until the 1940s. [njallendal...ociety.com], [en.everybodywiki.com]

Arthur Appert Company
The second-generation Appert family operation became one of Bergen County's best-known commercial vegetable growers, operating trucks and supplying wholesale markets throughout northern New Jersey. [fykenature.org], [njallendal...ociety.com]

Upper Saddle River
Eckerson's Dairy
A major local dairy on West Saddle River Road that purchased milk from area farmers including Andrew Hennion Farm. It served as an important milk distribution point in the valley. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Andrew Hennion Farm
Purchased in 1857 and operated as a dairy farm with a substantial herd supplying milk to Eckerson's Dairy. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Carlough Apple Farm
One of the valley's most significant agricultural enterprises. The Carlough family developed extensive orchards and a large apple business that lasted for generations. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [mahwahmuseum.org]

Saddle River Brand Apples
The commercial brand used by the Carlough family. By the twentieth century apples were being shipped throughout the United States and exported internationally. Historical records note exports to numerous countries and hundreds of acres under cultivation. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [mahwahmuseum.org]

Weiss Family Farm
Known for poultry and mixed farming operations in Upper
Saddle River. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Mettowee Farms
Originally established as R. Dykstra & Sons Dairy and later renamed Mettowee Farms. Operated as a dairy farm, milk bottling operation, and roadside farm stand. It became one of the most recognized dairy businesses in the area. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Martin Dairy Company
Founded around 1911 by the Martin family and later associated with Mettowee Farms. Delivered milk in glass bottles throughout Bergen County. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Saddle River
Packer Wagon Works
Although not a food producer, this Saddle River business manufactured market wagons used by local orchard owners and farmers transporting produce to the Paterson markets. It was an important support business for the valley's food economy. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Saddle River
Center Agricultural District
The historic district's National Register nomination specifically recognizes the importance of agriculture and commerce in the community, reflecting the concentration of farms, dairies, mills, and produce businesses located there. [en.wikipedia.org], [saddleriver.gov]

Ridgewood
Paramus Plains Strawberry Farms
The Ridgewood area was known for strawberries during the nineteenth century. Farmers also produced milk, butter, grains, and corn for regional markets. While individual farm names are harder to identify from current sources, strawberry production was a notable commercial activity. [localhisto...ibrary.org]

Paterson Market Connection
​Ridgewood served as a major route for farmers transporting produce from Upper Saddle River and Saddle River to the Paterson Market. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Ramsey
Carlough Family Produce Shipments
Members of the Carlough family maintained connections to Ramsey, and produce from the Carlough orchards was distributed through Ramsey-area transportation and market networks. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [legacy.com]

Local Dairies and Milk Routes
Historic references suggest Ramsey participated heavily in the Valley's milk route system, though specific dairy names would require newspaper archive research beyond the sources available today. [sherwooddairies.com]

Ho-Ho-Kus
Hopper and Ackerman Family Farms
The community developed around Dutch family farms raising livestock and growing produce throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. These farms supplied nearby villages and urban markets. [localhisto...ibrary.org], [en.wikipedia.org]

Waldwick
Orvil Township Farms
Before incorporation, Waldwick's area contained numerous truck farms and dairy operations associated with neighboring Allendale and Saddle River markets. [allendalenj.gov]

Woodcliff Lake
Pascack and Saddle River Milk Routes
Woodcliff Lake farmers participated in the regional dairy economy serving Bergen County and New York markets. While specific business names require additional archival work, dairying was a significant local activity. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [sherwooddairies.com]


In the early 1900s, farmers left Upper Saddle River at 3:00 a.m. with horse-drawn wagons loaded with peaches, apples, berries, and vegetables. They traveled down West Saddle River Road through Ridgewood to the Paterson Market, arriving at dawn. Many would complete their sales and return home before noon. [usrhistori...ociety.org]


The Carlough family's Saddle River Brand Apples became one of the region's most successful orchard businesses, exporting apples to numerous countries and helping make the Saddle River Valley known far beyond Bergen County. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [mahwahmuseum.org]

Allendale
Allendale Produce Gardens (1888-1943)

• Founded by Henry J. Appert.
• Grew onions, celery, and lettuce on over 100 acres.
• Supplied wholesale markets and Campbell Soup.
• One of Bergen County's largest commercial vegetable operations. [njallendal...ociety.com], [en.everybodywiki.com]

Arthur Appert Company

• Successor family operation.
• Operated produce trucks and wholesale distribution from Allendale. [fykenature.org], [njallendal...ociety.com]

Upper Saddle River
Eckerson's Dairy

• Major local dairy receiving milk from area farms.
• Purchased milk from the Andrew Hennion Farm. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Andrew Hennion Farm

• Dairy operation established after Hennion acquired the property in 1857.
• Maintained a dairy herd and commercial milk production. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Carlough Apple Farm

• One of the largest orchard operations in the Saddle River Valley.
• Family farming activity dates to the nineteenth century. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [mahwahmuseum.org]

Saddle River Brand Apples

• Commercial apple brand of the Carlough family.
• Exported apples internationally and shipped throughout the United States. [usrhistori...ociety.org], [mahwahmuseum.org]

R. Dykstra & Sons Dairy

• Dairy farm established on the property later known as Mettowee Farms.
• Operated milk production and distribution. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Mettowee Farms

• Dairy farm and farm stand.
• Sold milk and seasonal farm products.
• Continued operation under the Martin family. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Martin Dairy Company

• Founded approximately 1911.
• Delivered bottled milk in glass bottles throughout the region. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Weiss Family Farm

• Known for poultry production and mixed farming. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Saddle River
Packer Wagon Works

• Built market wagons used by local orchardists and produce growers.
• Important support business for the valley agricultural economy. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Ackerman Family Blacksmith Shop

• Early agricultural support business serving local farms and wagon traffic.
• Mentioned in Saddle River's historical record. [saddleriver.gov]

Historic FarmsThe Saddle River historical record names several major farming families:

• Ackerman
• Van Buskirk
• Achenbach
• Hopper
• Zabriskie
• Baldwin
  These operated substantial farms that formed the agricultural backbone of Saddle River. [saddleriver.gov]

Ramsey
Strawberry Farms of RamseyThe Borough history specifically states that strawberries became Ramsey's major cash crop during the nineteenth century. By 1851 approximately one million baskets were shipped to New York City. [ramseynj.com]

Produce Shipping Operations
Ramsey farmers shipped produce to:

• Washington Island Market in Paterson
• Old Newark Market
• Gansevoort Market in Manhattan
• Dey Street Commission Market in Manhattan [ramseynj.com]

Although the source does not list individual farm names, these markets became the primary outlets for Ramsey's produce economy. [ramseynj.com]

Ridgewood
Ridgewood Area Strawberry ProducersHistorical records identify strawberries among the principal market crops raised by Ridgewood-area farmers, together with milk, butter, grains, and corn. [localhisto...ibrary.org]
Market Route BusinessesRidgewood served as a major transportation corridor for produce traveling from Upper Saddle River and Saddle River to Paterson's wholesale markets. [usrhistori...ociety.org]

Valuable Archive Source for Additional Business Names
​The most promising source I found for your next level of research is the Ramsey Digital Archive, which contains digitized newspapers including:

• The Ramsey Journal (1892-1960)
• The Journal (1960-1967)
• The Waldwick Journal (1945-) [advantagea...chives.com], [communityh...chives.com]

from the exact 1880-1950 period you are targeting. [advantagea...chives.com], [communityh...chives.com]

History of Ho-Ho-Kus

List by cuisine type across the Saddle River Valley towns you mentioned. This includes highlights from each town based on recent reviews and popularity:

🥩 Steakhouse / American

• Roots Steakhouse – Ridgewood
• Park West Tavern – Ridgewood
• RP Prime Steakhouse – Fair Lawn
• Saddle River Inn – Saddle River (French/Steakhouse)
• Midland Brew House – Saddle Brook
• The Capital Grille – Paramus
• Eddie V’s Prime Seafood – Paramus (Seafood/Steakhouse)

🍝 Italian

• Andrea’s – Waldwick
• Limoncello Italian Restaurant – Waldwick
• From Scratch – Ridgewood
• La Lanterna Café & Grill – Ridgewood
• Nanni Ristorante – Rochelle Park
• Mario’s Pizza & Pasta – Saddle Brook
• Grumpy’s Pizza Co. – Saddle Brook
• Saddle River Gourmet Deli – Saddle River (Italian Deli)

🍣 Japanese / Sushi / Asian Fusion

• Leo Sushi & Asian Cuisine – Waldwick
• Osaka Ryu Gin – Glen Rock
• Yama Sushi Bar & Chinese Food – Glen Rock
• Shokudo Ramen & Sushi – Paramus
• Matsuya Japanese Steak House – Saddle Brook
• Maguro Sushi House – Rochelle Park

🌮 Mexican / Latin / Caribbean

• Taco Buzz – Fair Lawn (Halal Mexican)
• El Asadero Mexican Grill – Rochelle Park
• Rumba Cubana – Rochelle Park
• Noches De Colombia – Saddle Brook (Latin/Seafood)

🥙 Mediterranean / Middle Eastern

• AdA Mediterranean Brasserie – Fair Lawn
• Chicken Kebab – Glen Rock
• Pardis Persian Grill – Ridgewood
• DD Thai Cuisine – Rochelle Park (Thai)

🥗 Cafes / Brunch / Deli

• Iachetti’s Kitchen – Glen Rock (American)
• Saddle Brook Diner – Saddle Brook
• Daily Treat Restaurant – Ridgewood
• Graze Brunch Kitchen – Ho-Ho-Kus
• Ted’s Deli – Rochelle Park
• Nick’s Sandwich Shop – Saddle Brook

​

Paramus

Lift the Latch was a popular local restaurant, bar, and gathering spot located on Paramus Road in Paramus, New Jersey, during the mid-to-late 20th century.

​Key Highlights & History

• Family Roots & Operations: For many years, the restaurant was operated as a family business managed by long-time Paramus resident Richard Page Dunlap.
• Prominent Ownership: Local restaurateur Paul "Paulie" Bechtel—a well-known figure in the Bergen County dining scene who also owned The Cheshire Cat in Paramus and The Library Restaurant & Bar—was an owner of Lift the Latch.
• Location & Social Hub: Situated along Paramus Road near the Saddle River Country Club, Lift the Latch served as a go-to neighborhood eating and drinking establishment. During the 1970s, it was part of the lively Paramus Road corridor alongside other popular local watering holes of the era like The Cuss From Hoe and Maxies.
• The Era: Like many classic Bergen County establishments of its time (such as The Fireplace, Twin Oaks, and The Cheshire Cat), Lift the Latch belonged to an era of independent, family-run roadside eateries and taverns that predated the heavy commercial and franchise development that later reshaped Route 4, Route 17, and Paramus Road.

While the establishment eventually closed as the retail and dining landscape in Paramus evolved, it remains a fond piece of local nostalgia for long-time Bergen County residents.



Biagio’s Ristorante opened at the 299 Paramus Road location in 1989, after taking over the former Lift the Latch space.
It was founded by the Perides family, who purchased the property and transformed the classic local watering hole into a family-owned Italian restaurant and banquet facility.
A few key milestones in that site's transition and evolution:

• 1989: The Perides family opened Biagio’s, preserving the welcoming neighborhood vibe and warm stone fireplace while pivoting to classic home-style Italian dining.
• 2003: Chef Jimmy Perides (who trained at Johnson & Wales and honed his skills in NYC kitchens like Babbo) took over culinary operations, modernizing the menu with scratch-made pastas while keeping signature family staples like their chicken parm.
• 2013: The venue expanded significantly next door with the addition of The Terrace at Biagio’s, a large, modern banquet facility for weddings and major events.

The original building itself still retains much of the classic layout and cozy dining rooms that long-time Paramus locals remember from the Lift the Latch era.
John R. Fugazzie











​John R. Fugazzie​

Lift the Latch was a popular local restaurant, bar, and gathering spot located on Paramus Road in Paramus, New Jersey, during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Key Highlights & History

• Family Roots & Operations: For many years, the restaurant was operated as a family business managed by long-time Paramus resident Richard Page Dunlap.
• Prominent Ownership: Local restaurateur Paul "Paulie" Bechtel—a well-known figure in the Bergen County dining scene who also owned The Cheshire Cat in Paramus and The Library Restaurant & Bar—was an owner of Lift the Latch.
• Location & Social Hub: Situated along Paramus Road near the Saddle River Country Club, Lift the Latch served as a go-to neighborhood eating and drinking establishment. During the 1970s, it was part of the lively Paramus Road corridor alongside other popular local watering holes of the era like The Cuss From Hoe and Maxies.
• The Era: Like many classic Bergen County establishments of its time (such as The Fireplace, Twin Oaks, and The Cheshire Cat), Lift the Latch belonged to an era of independent, family-run roadside eateries and taverns that predated the heavy commercial and franchise development that later reshaped Route 4, Route 17, and Paramus Road.

While the establishment eventually closed as the retail and dining landscape in Paramus evolved, it remains a fond piece of local nostalgia for long-time Bergen County residents.



Biagio’s Ristorante opened at the 299 Paramus Road location in 1989, after taking over the former Lift the Latch space.
It was founded by the Perides family, who purchased the property and transformed the classic local watering hole into a family-owned Italian restaurant and banquet facility.
A few key milestones in that site's transition and evolution:

• 1989: The Perides family opened Biagio’s, preserving the welcoming neighborhood vibe and warm stone fireplace while pivoting to classic home-style Italian dining.
• 2003: Chef Jimmy Perides (who trained at Johnson & Wales and honed his skills in NYC kitchens like Babbo) took over culinary operations, modernizing the menu with scratch-made pastas while keeping signature family staples like their chicken parm.
• 2013: The venue expanded significantly next door with the addition of The Terrace at Biagio’s, a large, modern banquet facility for weddings and major events.

The original building itself still retains much of the classic layout and cozy dining rooms that long-time Paramus locals remember from the Lift the Latch era.

John R. Fugazzie











​John R. Fugazzie​

Lift the Latch was a popular local restaurant, bar, and gathering spot located on Paramus Road in Paramus, New Jersey, during the mid-to-late 20th century.
Key Highlights & History

• Family Roots & Operations: For many years, the restaurant was operated as a family business managed by long-time Paramus resident Richard Page Dunlap.
• Prominent Ownership: Local restaurateur Paul "Paulie" Bechtel—a well-known figure in the Bergen County dining scene who also owned The Cheshire Cat in Paramus and The Library Restaurant & Bar—was an owner of Lift the Latch.
• Location & Social Hub: Situated along Paramus Road near the Saddle River Country Club, Lift the Latch served as a go-to neighborhood eating and drinking establishment. During the 1970s, it was part of the lively Paramus Road corridor alongside other popular local watering holes of the era like The Cuss From Hoe and Maxies.
• The Era: Like many classic Bergen County establishments of its time (such as The Fireplace, Twin Oaks, and The Cheshire Cat), Lift the Latch belonged to an era of independent, family-run roadside eateries and taverns that predated the heavy commercial and franchise development that later reshaped Route 4, Route 17, and Paramus Road.

While the establishment eventually closed as the retail and dining landscape in Paramus evolved, it remains a fond piece of local nostalgia for long-time Bergen County residents.



Biagio’s Ristorante opened at the 299 Paramus Road location in 1989, after taking over the former Lift the Latch space.
It was founded by the Perides family, who purchased the property and transformed the classic local watering hole into a family-owned Italian restaurant and banquet facility.
A few key milestones in that site's transition and evolution:

• 1989: The Perides family opened Biagio’s, preserving the welcoming neighborhood vibe and warm stone fireplace while pivoting to classic home-style Italian dining.
• 2003: Chef Jimmy Perides (who trained at Johnson & Wales and honed his skills in NYC kitchens like Babbo) took over culinary operations, modernizing the menu with scratch-made pastas while keeping signature family staples like their chicken parm.
• 2013: The venue expanded significantly next door with the addition of The Terrace at Biagio’s, a large, modern banquet facility for weddings and major events.

The original building itself still retains much of the classic layout and cozy dining rooms that long-time Paramus locals remember from the Lift the Latch era.

Here are some interesting facts about the towns and areas bordering the Saddle River in New York and New Jersey:

1. Upper Saddle River, NJ: This town is known for its beautiful residential areas and historic sites. The Saddle River itself forms here from streams in Rockland County, NY[1]. Upper Saddle River is also home to several parks and nature reserves, making it a great place for outdoor activities.
2. Saddle River, NJ: One of the wealthiest towns in New Jersey, Saddle River is known for its large estates and historic homes. It's home to some of the wealthiest residents in the state, including billionaire Rocco Commisso[2].

These towns offer a mix of historical charm, affluent living, and natural beauty, making the areas around the Saddle River unique and interesting. Is there a specific town or area you'd like to know more about?

References
[1] Saddle River (Passaic River tributary) - Wikipedia
[2] 16 Richest Towns in New Jersey (2024) - Suburbs 101
[3] 61 Interesting Facts About New Jersey - The Fact File

​NEW JERSEY — Five New Jersey communities are among the Best Places to Live in America in 2025, according to a new ranking from Niche released Monday.

Now in its 11th year, the ranking from the data-driven platform Niche helps everyone from young people just starting their careers or families to retirees decide where they want to live. The report analyzes places of various sizes, including cities with populations of 100,000 or more, suburbs and neighborhoods.

In the Garden State, the following towns were among the top 100 on the list. Here's what Niche highlighted:

34. Ho-Ho-Kus, with an overall Niche grade of A+. This Bergen County community got high marks for its public schools and for being good for families, offering a rural feel while still being close to New York City.

35. Princeton, with an overall Niche grade of A+. The review noted an abundance of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks in Princeton, and that it is a good place for both young professionals and families. It also got top marks for public schools and being a good place to raise a family.

65. Ridgewood, with an overall Niche grade of A+. The village, which is just south of Ho-Ho-Kus, also got top marks for public schools and being a good place to raise a family. Reviewers highlighted the number of parks and local businesses.

71. River Edge, with an overall Niche grade of A+. The third Bergen County entrant on this list, River Edge was noted for its "small town" vibe and good local restaurants, public school system, and safety.

79. Princeton Junction, with an overall Niche grade of A+. Reviewers highlighted the local parks, public transportation, and ample job opportunities. It also got top marks for public schools and being a good place to raise a family.
​
The rankings are based on a wide range of public data sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, combined with millions of resident reviews.
​
Niche said it analyzed thousands of communities to compile this year’s ranking. Community attributes considered in developing the list included the health of the local housing market, neighborhood diversity, area public schools and walkability, among others. (More on methodology.)

Here are the population and demographic details for the saddle river valley towns:
​
Airmont, NY

• Population: Approximately 10,163 as of 2023[1].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (77.6%), with smaller percentages of Black (7.2%), Asian (2.3%), and Hispanic or Latino (16.0%) residents[1].

Upper Saddle River, NJ

• Population: Approximately 8,480 as of 2023[2].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (74.6%), with significant Asian (16.8%) and smaller Black (1.5%) and Hispanic or Latino (5.3%) populations[2].

Saddle River, NJ

• Population: Approximately 3,382 as of 2024[3].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (74.1%), with notable Asian (12.34%) and smaller Black (5.11%) and Hispanic or Latino (6.27%) populations[3].

Waldwick, NJ

• Population: Approximately 10,105 as of 2023[4].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (79.5%), with smaller Asian (7.5%) and Hispanic or Latino (17.0%) populations[4].

Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ

• Population: Approximately 4,230 as of 2023[5].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (70%), with notable Asian (14%) and smaller Hispanic or Latino (9%) populations[5].

Ridgewood, NJ

• Population: Approximately 26,194 as of 2023[6].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (69.9%), with significant Asian (16.4%) and smaller Hispanic or Latino (10.2%) populations[6].

Glen Rock, NJ

• Population: Approximately 12,082 as of 2023[7].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (76%), with notable Asian (14%) and smaller Hispanic or Latino (5%) populations[7].

Paramus, NJ

• Population: Approximately 26,282 as of 2023[8].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (59.2%), with significant Asian (23.7%) and smaller Hispanic or Latino (13.2%) populations[8].

Fair Lawn, NJ

• Population: Approximately 35,564 as of 2023[9].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (69.2%), with notable Asian (13.4%) and Hispanic or Latino (13.2%) populations[9].

Rochelle Park, NJ

• Population: Approximately 5,833 as of 2023[10].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (62.6%), with notable Hispanic or Latino (25.8%) and smaller Asian (10.4%) populations[10].

References
[1] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Airmont village, New York
[2] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Upper Saddle River borough, New Jersey
[3] Saddle River borough, New Jersey Population 2024 - World Population Review
[4] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Waldwick borough, New Jersey
[5] Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ - Profile data - Census Reporter
[6] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Ridgewood village, New Jersey
[7] Glen Rock, NJ - Profile data - Census Reporter
[8] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Paramus borough, New Jersey
[9] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Fair Lawn borough, New Jersey
[10] Rochelle Park township, Bergen County, New Jersey - Census.gov
[11] Airmont, NY - Profile data - Census Reporter
[12] Airmont, NY - 10901 - Demographics and Population Statistics ...
[13] Waldwick, NJ - Profile data - Census Reporter
[14] Waldwick borough, New Jersey Population 2024 - World Population Review
[15] Paramus borough, New Jersey Population 2025 - World Population Review
[16] Paramus, NJ - Profile data - Census Reporter
[17] Upper Saddle River Population Statistics - NeighborhoodScout
[18] Upper Saddle River, NJ - Profile data - Census Reporter
[19] Saddle River, NJ - Profile data - Census Reporter
[20] Saddle River, New Jersey - Wikipedia
[21] Ridgewood, NJ - Profile data - Census Reporter
[22] Ridgewood, NJ - 07450 - Demographics and Population Statistics ...
[23] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Glen Rock borough, New Jersey
[24] Glen Rock borough, New Jersey Population 2025 - World Population Review
[25] Fair Lawn, NJ - 07410 - Demographics and Population Statistics ...
[26] Fair Lawn borough, New Jersey Population 2025 - World Population Review
[27] Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey - Wikipedia
[28] Ho-Ho-Kus borough, New Jersey Population 2024 - World Population Review
[29] Rochelle Park, New Jersey - Wikipedia
[30] Census profile: Rochelle Park township, Bergen County, NJ

Here are the population and demographic details for the towns in Saddle River Valley:

Saddle Brook, NJ

• Population: Approximately 14,386 as of 2023[1].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (64.1%), with notable Hispanic or Latino (23.4%), Asian (5.3%), and Black (3.9%) populations[1].

Lodi, NJ

• Population: Approximately 25,832 as of 2023[2].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (52.2%), with significant Hispanic or Latino (40.5%), Black (9.6%), and Asian (8.1%) populations[2].

Garfield, NJ

• Population: Approximately 32,456 as of 2023[3].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (58.5%), with significant Hispanic or Latino (45.4%), Black (6.0%), and Asian (3.9%) populations[3].

​Wallington, NJ

• Population: Approximately 11,825 as of 2023[4].
• Demographics: Predominantly White (73.6%), with notable Hispanic or Latino (19.7%), Black (4.4%), and Asian (3.6%) populations[4].

Would you like more detailed information on any of these towns?

References
[1] Saddle Brook, NJ - 07663 - Demographics and Population Statistics ...
[2] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Lodi borough, New Jersey
[3] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Garfield city, New Jersey
[4] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Wallington borough, New Jersey
[5] Lodi borough, New Jersey Population 2025 - World Population Review
[6] Lodi, NJ - Profile data - Census Reporter
[7] Wallington, New Jersey - Wikipedia
[8] Wallington borough, New Jersey Population 2025 - World Population Review
[9] Saddle Brook, New Jersey - Wikipedia
[10] U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Saddle Brook township, Bergen County ...
[11] Garfield, NJ - Profile data - Census Reporter
[12] Garfield, NJ - 07026 - Demographics and Population Statistics ...

Saddle River Valley

The Saddle River begins in Airmont, New York
. From there, it flows south through several towns in New Jersey, including Upper Saddle River, Saddle River, Waldwick,
​ Ho-Ho-Kus, Ridgewood, 
Glen Rock, Paramus, Fair Lawn, Rochelle Park, 
​Saddle Brook, Lodi, Garfield, and Wallington.

Airmont. NY

Upper Saddle River

Saddle River

Waldwick

Ho-Ho-Kus

Ridgewood

Glen Rock

Paramus

Fair Lawn

Rochelle Park

Saddle Brook

Lodi

Garfield

Wallington.

​Saddle River (Passaic River tributary)

​Saddle River County Park: Ridgewood to Glen Rock

​
North Jersey Rapid Transit
​Ho-Ho-Kus Trolley
from late 1909 to 1929

The Ho-Ho-Kus Race Track (Circa 1867)

River Edge Local information

​https://www.facebook.com/thisisriveredge

​https://www.facebook.com/groups/2075462282755685

This is River Edge - facebook 
​www.facebook.com/groups/thisisriveredge

​This Is River Edge Too

Vintage Bergen County
tposnreSdotMda4it643te4908c73shYt 4ta :atuA 9fyu6c21t0gt5erf ·
Now that is a classic deli! Here we have Governale’s Delicatessen that once stood at 570 Kinderkamack Road in River Edge.

There is so much in this picture that brings back memories for so many of us. Let’s dive into the picture and go back in time. First, we have what was likely Joseph Governale, Sr on the left and his son Joseph, Jr. on the right. Joseph, Sr. was the founder and owner of the deli. The photo is possibly from the 1950s or early 1960s. And because of the window decorations on the right, we can assume it was in the fall, possibly near Thanksgiving.

Look at the big hand painted sign! How many delis today are featuring home cooked foods? And who remembers T&W ice cream? That would be Terwilliger & Wakefield, a Ridgewood dairy company that became synonymous with quality ice cream. (By the way, I like the six suspended spotlights lighting up the sign.) Below the sign is a rolled-up canvas awning. Once ubiquitous on practically every store, the awning has largely gone the way of the dinosaur. The awnings were needed in the days before central air conditioning, so as to keep the hot sun from flooding through the large picture windows.

The Governales are a nice Italian family, and so the home-made lasagna was very fitting. And the home-made cold cuts must have been yummy. (Do any delis still make their own cold cuts?) The neon T&W sign is really cool! Imagine having that, it would be worth a lot! (Just a metal collectible T&W sign goes for over $750.) The Pepsi signs on the bottom of the doors are really neat. And what about the gumball machines? How many of you plopped in pockets full of coins to get gumballs and candy?

As to Governale’s Delicatessen, they actually had two locations. First the River Edge one, and then a store in Bergenfield (which I believe was later). The first newspaper mention of the deli was from 1960. A local man and wife, parents of seven children, were down on their luck, as he lost his job. So, they just decided to make ends meet by writing $500 worth of bad checks. Joseph received $45 in worthless checks. Governale’s Delicatessen didn’t advertise, and no major incidents happened at the deli which were newsworthy. Although in 1971, PSE&G caused detours on Kinderkamack Road when they put cables underground. And ‘The Record’ newspaper stated that with the road closed “bologna has been sitting on Joe Governale’s shelves.”
​
Mrs. Josephine Governale died in 1983, and her obituary stated that she was an owner of Governale’s Delicatessen in River Edge and Bergenfield. Her husband Joeseph, Sr. retired in 1983, and by that time he had closed the River Edge location. Joseph was a hard-working World War II veteran, and a recipient of two Purple Hearts. By 1985, the old building was replaced with a new building that housed Dant’s Imports, and Italian deli. By 2020, Dante’s was closed and today Mado, a Mediterranean restaurant, is there. I wish I had a time machine to go back to visit Governale’s Delicatessen, because a good deli is hard to find. 

– Tim Adriance

100 years ago that the North Hackensack-Hackensack Trolley took its last run.

The historical trolley system that connected Hackensack to surrounding regions—including the Fairmount/Cherry Hill section (historically referred to near North Hackensack)—primarily operated as part of the Hudson River Trolley Line (and lines like the Bergen Turnpike route). [1, 2, 3]

​The main Hudson River Line ran between Edgewater and Paterson, cutting right through Hackensack. It first began operations on February 24, 1899, and service officially ended on August 5, 1938, when Bergen County's streetcars were replaced by buses. [1, 2, 3, 4]
​
Historical photographs of the Public Service Coordinated Transit and Hudson River Line trolleys traveling through Hackensack and the surrounding Bergen County tracks can be seen here:

Operating History & Routes

• The Lifespan: The primary network ran for exactly 40 years (1898–1938) under companies like the Bergen County Traction Company and later the Public Service Corporation of New Jersey. [1, 2]
• The "Big Red" Cars: The Hudson River Line cars were famously painted a bright, vibrant red with gold lettering along the sides. [1]
• The Hackensack Route: The trolley entered Hackensack from Bogota over the historic Midtown Bridge (originally built in 1900 specifically as a trolley bridge). It ran alongside the Susquehanna railroad tracks up to First Street, curved under the trestle to Passaic Street, and headed west toward Maywood and Paterson. [1, 2, 3]

Regions History
​

​1828

Vintage Bergen County
Did you ever wonder what Bergen County looked like in 1828? Here is a section of the statewide ‘Thomas Gordon map of New Jersey’ showing Bergen County. Note at the top, Mahwah is not shown but “Suffern’s” in New York is. The road one might think is Route 17 is actually the Franklin Turnpike.

Notice there are large townships: Franklin, Harrington, Saddle River, New Barbadoes, Hackensack, Lodi, and way down at the south - is Bergen. Bergen Township included Jersey City, as Hudson County had not split off from Bergen County yet (that happened in 1840). Also notice Hackensack Township was on the other side of the Hackensack River (the Indian location by that name, “place of high ground,” is over there, and the name moved to today’s Hackensack when the church congregation moved across the river).
​
There are a few towns shown, “New Prospect” was northern Ho-Ho-Kus, Waldwick, and southern Allendale. Ho-Ho-Kus, itself, is where you would expect it, although Paramus shown relates to the church (in today’s Ridgewood), and not the town we all know. New Milford is shown and notice the symbol that looks like a circle with spokes coming out – that denotes a mill (and there were a lot of mills in “New Milford”).
​
Old Bridge is by the River Edge train station, and New Bridge is down in southern River Edge. The village of Hackensack is naturally the “City of Hackensack” today (notice the concentration of houses along Main Street). “Stralenberg” is Schraalenburgh, today’s Bergenfield and Dumont (the name means “poor ground”).

Notice Closter is way south of where you would expect it, but it was more of a region rather than the town you think of today. Closter once went from Englewood to Tappan NY, and the “Closter horseman” in the Revolution was in Englewood Cliffs (and he was from Hunterdon County). “Mount Clinton” is the eastern end of Clinton Avenue in Tenafly. Ft. Lee is of course Fort Lee. A few other places are shown. Polifly is the Hasbrouck Heights and Wood-Ridge area (the name is Dutch and means “bog meadow”). Ponds is Oakland, and “Hopper’s” is about where Ramapo College is located.

And then there are roads (three were toll turnpike roads). Franklin Turnpike was mentioned earlier, and it dates to 1805. The road from Paterson to Hackensack is the 1816, Hackensack and Paterson Turnpike (today’s Essex and Market Streets). By the way, today’s Passaic County was still part of Bergen County back then, as it would not split off until 1837. And running south from Hackensack was the 1802 Bergen Turnpike.

And then there was the railroad. It was laid out and is shown, but it had not been built yet. It opened in 1832, and it would run from Paterson through Acquackanock (today’s Passaic) into what is today, Rutherford, down to Hoboken (about the same route as the tracks run today). By the way when the railroad opened the means of power consisted of a “dozen or so gentle horses.”

Two horses were hitched in tandem, and they trotted along the center of the track drawing a single stagecoach type of passenger car, called “a pleasure car,” which held 20 people inside and six-to-twelve on top, and upfront sat what was advertised as “a careful driver.” Freight was run the same way, but in open “transportation cars.” By July 1832, the line carried 1,979 passengers a week. Of note, the world’s first railroad drawbridge was built for this line across the Hackensack River.

By June 1835 the railroad’s horses were replaced by the new-fangled “iron horse” – a steam locomotive, whose parts were made in England and shipped across the Atlantic in crates. The six-horse-power steam engine was assembled in the Paterson machine shop of Rogers, Ketchum and Grosvenor and given the name “MC NEILL” in honor of the chief engineer, William Gibbs McNeill who was in charge of constructing the railroad.

A classic case of stealing intellectual property was committed when Thomas Rogers, while assembling the locomotive, copied all of the parts and started producing his own model – and thus the famous Rogers Locomotive Works was later born. You can learn so much from this pretty cool look at our fair county! – Tim Adriance

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