Early printing efforts in New Jersey were overshadowed by the bustling printing industries in nearby New York City and Philadelphia. But New Jersey was not without its share of creative, entrepreneurial, and patriotic printers. Several of them made important contributions to the American cause during the Revolution. Some specialized in books for children, while others founded newspapers which still exist today. Numerous examples of their work can be found in the special collections of libraries across the state. This website aims to present brief histories of some of New Jersey's first printers, and features examples of their work. The printers mentioned here represent only a small sample of early New Jersey printing. I have tried to include the earliest and most well-known New Jersey printers, and have also included some lesser-known people. However, according to New Jersey historian Joseph Felcone, by 1800 more than 25 presses had existed in New Jersey. So, this study should not be considered exhaustive. In addition, resources are provided for further study of New Jersey history, printers, and printing in America. New Jersey printers were very important during the American Revolution, and they have earned their place in New Jersey history.
Printing in New Jersey: An Introduction
Images of Works by the Printers
This website was created as an independent study project as part of my fulfillment of the Master of Library Service (MLS) degree at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, May, 2000.
