6 Unknown Facts About New Jersey, USA

This content was produced in partnership with Bazoom Group.

New Jersey, often overshadowed by its flashy neighbor, New York, is an enigma wrapped in a riddle. Known affectionately as the Garden State, it's a place teeming with surprises and secrets waiting to be uncovered.

For this post, forget the typical stuff you've heard about NJ. Today, we're venturing off the beaten path. We'll dive into the lesser-known, the quirky, and the downright fascinating facts about New Jersey that will leave you amazed.

Besides all the things we’re about to discuss, the state is also a pioneer in online gambling. It’s the first state to legalize internet casinos and currently has a thriving industry. You can find NJ info at bestonlinecasino.com if you consider yourself a recreational gambler.

Without further ado, let’s get right to the fun facts.

The Time Zone is a New Jersey Innovation

Did you know a New Jerseyan revolutionized how we tell time? We’re talking about none other than William F. Allen, the wonder child from South Orange.

According to legends, he was fed up with the lack of time standardization in 1883 as an official railway guide. So, he came up with the concept of Standard Time and established the first time zones.

There’s a Dormant Volcano You Don’t Know About

Here's a fascinating bit about New Jersey. Hidden in the Skylands is Rutan Hill, an extinct volcano. It’s been dormant for about 440 million years.

We know it’s hard to imagine, but this now peaceful hill was once a bubbling volcano. Today, it stands as a unique feature of New Jersey's diverse landscape. It only goes to show how much about the world we don’t know.

You Can’t Pump Your Own Gas

In New Jersey, there's a quirky law that sets it apart from most other states—self-service gas stations are illegal.

You read that right. In the Garden State, you can sit back and relax in your car while someone else pumps your gas. This unique law has been in place for years, and we don’t see it changing anytime soon. Literally every gas station you visit includes full service.

This not only provides employment opportunities but also adds a touch of convenience and nostalgia. In case you didn’t know, there was a time when full-service stations were the norm across the country. It's just one of those charming idiosyncrasies that make New Jersey distinct.

The First Complete Dinosaur Was Discovered in NJ

Among many other things, New Jersey holds a prehistoric secret. It was in Haddonfield where the first complete dinosaur skeleton in North America was unearthed. It’s a particular type of duckbilled dinosaur that roamed the swaps along the coast.

Of course, it was a groundbreaking (pun intended) discovery that happened back in 1858. William Parker Foulke, a paleontologist, dug up the bones.

By 1868, the Hadrosaurus foulkii became the first dinosaur to be mounted for public display. This 10-foot tall and 7-8 tons of sheer mass discovery was monumental in proving dinosaurs once roamed the earth.

Today, you can visit a statue replica in downtown Haddonfield that stands as a tribute to New Jersey's ancient history.

The Iconic NJ Boardwalk

The Atlantic City Boardwalk isn't just any boardwalk. Rather, it's a historic gem and the oldest in the world.

The walk was constructed back in 1870. It stretches for an impressive six miles along the coast. Picture yourself strolling along this famed path, where generations have walked before.

The locals will agree that the Boardwalk has been a central part of Atlantic City's charm. It invites locals and tourists alike to experience a slice of Americana that has stood the test of time.

NJ Has The Most Horses Per Square Mile

New Jersey might not be the first place you think of when it comes to horses. But here's a surprise. Jersey has more horses per square mile than any other state, even beating Kentucky. There’s even talk of horses making their way onto a special license plate for those truly dedicated to the state.

Sure, this fact might raise a few eyebrows, but it's true. The Garden State is a hub for the Standardbred Racing and Breeding industry. Monmouth Park, for example, is recognized as one of the most prestigious Thoroughbred racetracks in the country.

Beyond the racetracks, New Jersey is dotted with stables and fields where you see people riding horses for both pleasure and practice. So, the next time you see a horse when roaming around NJ, don’t act surprised.

Closing Thoughts

As you now know these somewhat unknown facts about New Jersey, your general knowledge has surely improved. It’s apparent that NJ is more than just a spot on the map next to New York. In fact, it's a vibrant land of contrasts and curiosities.

From its lush wetlands hosting diverse bird species to the echoes of revolutionary battles, New Jersey has a unique way of blending nature's beauty with historical depth.

If you or anyone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.