Essex County, Administrative county in New Jersey, United States
Essex County is a division in northeastern New Jersey where Newark stands as the largest city. The region belongs to the New York metropolitan area and includes both urban centers and smaller towns.
The county was formed on March 7, 1683, as one of the first English divisions in colonial New Jersey. Newark became the main town shortly after and has held that role over the centuries.
The name comes from the English county of Essex, a link settlers from England established in the 17th century. Residents today use regional parks and public spaces that contribute to the shared identity of the different communities.
The county borders five other divisions and offers connections to Manhattan and other parts of the region. Visitors find information about public facilities and recreation areas in different towns.
Branch Brook Park within the county holds more cherry trees than the Tidal Basin in Washington. The yearly cherry blossom in spring draws visitors from across the region.
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