Bordentown City

Bordentown City has been a key center of American history, commerce, and transportation since its founding in 1682. Situated just south of the Falls of Trenton (where the Delaware river meets the tidal waters of the Delaware Bay), and at the confluence of the Blacks and Crosswicks creeks, Bordentown was the perfect hub for travel between Philadelphia and New York. The city sits high on a bluff overlooking the waterways, which protects the inhabitants from flooding and provided a clear vantage spot during colonial times.

Founded by Joseph Farnsworth, a Quaker businessman, it was originally named Farnsworth's Landing. In 1734, Joseph Borden started a stage line and packet service for the area.  He also served as a colonel for the Colonial Army in the American Revolution.

In 1852, Clara Barton began teaching in Bordentown. Her schoolhouse has now been restored and can be found on the corner of Crosswicks Street and East Burlington Street. Thomas Paine, the author of Common Sense, lived in Bordentown; his residence, the only house he owned in America, can be found on the corner of Farnworth Avenue and West Church Street. Joseph Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon, had an estate in Bordentown when he was exiled from Spain. His estate, now the location of the city offices can be found at 101 Park Street. The steam engine John Bull was launched from Bordentown, and a monument in its honor can be found adjacent to the Old Town Pub at 135 Farnsworth Avenue.

Today, Bordentown is a busy, walkable city with many dining and shopping options. Recreational opportunities include several parks, two yacht clubs and a public launch, historic attractions, and city-wide events.