Mercer Park
Named for Revolutionary War General Hugh Mercer, the site of Mercer Park was originally part of Curries Woods on the border of Jersey City and Bayonne. Remaining largely undeveloped before the turn of the century, local residents would flock to this area to enjoy the natural scenery and relax. The historic Morris Canal was the border between the two municipalities, running along the northern and eastern sections of the park. The park’s development was achieved through Works Progress Administration (WPA), which provided funds to employ local residents to work on the park. Its 6 1⁄2 acres offer walkways to stroll through the greenery and shady resting and picnic spots amongst the trees. Click here to view park brochure.
Recreation
Established in 1909, Mercer Park is a hidden gem of public space located in Bayonne along the border of Jersey City. Its 6 ½ acres offer walkways to stroll through the greenery and shady resting spots among its massive trees. The park serves athletics with two recently refurbished basketball courts and a lighted field for the dual use of youth baseball and football. Mercer Park has a playground for kids’ enjoyment.
History
The site of Mercer Park has a long history of recreational and natural use. It was originally a portion of Curries Woods, farmland near the border of Jersey City and Bayonne. Remaining largely undeveloped during the period of rapid growth before the turn of the century, residents of both cities would flock to this area to enjoy the green scenery and to relax. The Historic Morris Canal was the actual border between the two municipalities, running along the entire Northern and Eastern sections of the park.
This County Park was named after General Hugh Mercer, a famous American Revolution figure known for his bravery at the Battle of Princeton. The Park’s development was made possible through Works Progress Administration (WPA) under the New Deal, which provided funds to employ local residents to work on the park. In 1959, a large public housing complex was built on Curries Woods. The Hudson County Park has been carefully preserved and was also renovated in 1988.