|
 The
Lenni-Lenape Indians, a branch of the Delawares (part of the
Algonquin Nation) were the first known inhabitants of the Bernards
Township area. Scattered throughout are traces of these people:
arrowheads, tomahawks, hearthstones, hammerheads and camp rubble,
which indicate long occupation. One of the most widely used Indian
areas was near Madisonville Road--a major campsite was the present
AT&T location on North Maple Avenue. A burial ground is known to
have existed on the east side of Childs Road on the hillside across
from the Indian Graves Brook.
The area was purchased by
John Harrison, agent of King James III of England in 1717, from
Chief Nowenoik of the Lenapes, a real estate package of 3,000 acres
for $50. The remainder of the Township's land was bought later that
year by William Penn. |
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