Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ, is home to a long and storied history of military presence. From its earliest days under Dutch rule as part of the original 13 colonies to its current home of many military bases and forts, Parsippany-Troy Hills has been a part of America’s military journey. This two thousand-word article will take a tour of the five military bases and five forts of Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ. Visit this link for more information.
Our first stop is Picatinny Arsenal in nearby Rockaway Township. The army base was originally known as Dover Powder Magazine but underwent several name changes until being named Picatinny Arsenal. Picatinny Arsenal has become the center of research, development, acquisition, and life cycle management for the US Army’s armaments and munitions. The base employs over 6,000 civilian and military personnel. It is home to state-of-the-art research and engineering laboratories that test and create the nation’s finest weapons. Many weapons used in wars over the last century have come from Picatinny. Read about Experience the Wonders of Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ, with These Must-See Attractions here.
Next, we visit Fort Nonsense, located at the edge of Jockey Hollow. The fort served as one of the first military bases in the US. It was originally named Fort Lee, but the name was changed to Fort Nonsense after the soldiers joked about the fort’s ineffectiveness against the British during the Revolutionary War. Today, Fort Nonsense is no longer used by the military. Still, it is a famous local landmark known for its Revolutionary War history and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Our next stop is the US Army Reserve Center, located on Newburgh Road, this Army Reserve Center is home to the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, where future military leaders are educated and trained to serve their country. The Center also operates a nationwide recruiting and retention station, allowing soldiers to register and learn more about the Army Reserve.
Next, let’s take a tour of Lake Parsippany, once the site of a Revolutionary-era fort—the intent to protect the area from potential British attack. After the war, the fort was dismantled, and the area was transformed into a recreational lake. Lake Parsippany continues to be a recreational area for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Our fifth and final military base is the US Army Reserve Training Site in Parsippany-Troy Hills. This training site is home to the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), a program designed to educate and train future leaders. There are several barracks, training rooms, and an indoor shooting range.
Finally, let’s tour the five forts in Parsippany-Troy Hills. Our first stop is Fort Wilcox, located at the corner of Mineral Springs and Mountain Roads. The fort was used to guard the military supply lines between New Brunswick and the other military posts in New Jersey during the Revolutionary War. Fort Wilcox was abandoned shortly after the war, but its ruins are still visible today.
Our next stop is Fort Mountain, located on the town’s western border. The fort served as a base for troops engaged in the Revolutionary War. It consists of two levels, both of which are partially submerged and only visible during low tide.
Located on the banks of the Passaic River is our next fort, Fort Passaic. This fort served as a base for the Continental Army’s mobilization and operations across New Jersey throughout the Revolutionary War. Fort Passaic is accessible by boat and is considered a significant piece of Revolutionary War history.
Our fourth fort is Fort Schuyler, located on the northern edge of Parsippany-Troy Hills. The fort is a fine example of a large colonial-era fortification and served as an important military outpost for the Continental Army throughout the Revolutionary War.
Our last stop is Fort Chattan. The fort served as the headquarters for General George Washington’s troops during their retreat from New York City. It is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places and remains in reasonably good condition, considering its age.
So there you have it, a tour of the five military bases and five forts of Parsippany-Troy Hills. These sites are important pieces of history; each provides a unique glimpse into how the area has helped shape our country’s military journey. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to explore the local area, taking a tour of the five military bases and five forts of Parsippany-Troy Hills is an experience you’re sure to enjoy.