New Jersey Wildfire Threatens Historic Revolutionary War Village

Firefighters are in a race against time to contain the Jennings Creek Wildfire, a 5,000-acre blaze that threatens not only homes but also the historic Long Pond Ironworks in New Jersey.

Founded in 1766, this ironworks village played an important role in American history, producing iron for soldiers during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. It’s a piece of the past that many want to protect.

Despite a brief rain over the weekend, which dropped about a quarter-inch, conditions remain dry, worsened by weeks of drought, low humidity, and leaf litter across the Northeast. These factors have led to a rise in wildfires throughout the region, and Jennings Creek is now one of the largest.

The wildfire started in West Milford, New Jersey, and has put 25 structures at risk, including eight within the historic Long Pond Ironworks district. Fire crews are actively building containment lines to safeguard both the natural landscape and these irreplaceable historical sites.

Wildfires are raging on both coasts of the U.S. this morning. The Mountain Fire continues to burn in California as the blaze near New York City turns deadly. @janai reports. https://t.co/CAU7J3xEEK pic.twitter.com/q0dna0DLdd

— Good Morning America (@GMA) November 11, 2024

Located along the NJ-NY state line near Hewitt, Long Pond Ironworks includes the remnants of a once-thriving village and furnaces that powered early American industries and military efforts. Currently a New Jersey State Park and National Historic Landmark, this site holds the remains of an era that built the nation.

As a safety measure, Long Pond Ironworks trails and the visitor center are closed, along with sections of Ringwood State Park. Sadly, a New York State Parks worker lost his life last week while fighting the flames.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service is closely monitoring the wildfire, with containment efforts ongoing to protect both residents and the valuable history rooted in this Revolutionary War-era landmark.