New Providence, New Jersey was first settled in 1720.  Blessed with flat ground, creeks, ponds, and a river,  farming was a natural occupation here. Originally called  "Turkey" (for its large flocks of wild turkeys), it was renamed in 1759. A crowded church balcony in the Presbyterian Church collapsed and it was considered a miracle or a divine act of "providence" that no one was seriously injured.

During the Revolutionary war, the townsfolk dumped their precious salt supply into the brook rather than allow it to go to the British. That brook is still known today as the "Salt Brook".

Part of  Springfield Township until 1809, New Providence Township originally included Summit, New Providence, and Berkeley Heights.

Known in the late 1800's and early 1900's for its large greenhouses (specializing in roses and gardenias), New Providence heated their greenhouses with coal.  Trains brought many coal cars to the Murray Hill train station for their supply.

The Borough of New Providence was incorporated in 1899. Present day Berkeley Heights was still known as  New Providence Township until 1952.

New Providence Fire Department used horse drawn equipment until 1914.  At that time, installing their first mechanized fire truck.