About The Oldest Gated Community In America
Notable residents included Thomas Edison, Charles Lewis Tiffany, members of the Vanderbilt family
A gated community is a residential area or housing development that is enclosed within walls, fences, or gates, typically with restricted access to outsiders. These communities often feature controlled entrances and exits, such as security guards or electronic gate systems, which require authorization for entry.
Llewellyn Park in West Orange, New Jersey, holds the distinction of being the oldest gated community in America. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century, when it was founded by Llewellyn Solomon Haskell, a wealthy businessman and real estate developer.
Llewellyn Park Home Association recognizes it as the first gated community in America. Llewellyn Park Edison National Historic Site defines it as the first planned residential community in the United States. The Township of West Orange acknowledges it as the first gated community in the United States.
In 1853, Haskell purchased a large tract of land in the picturesque Watchung Mountains of New Jersey, with the vision of creating an exclusive residential community that would provide a tranquil retreat for affluent families from nearby cities such as New York City.
To preserve the privacy and exclusivity of the community, Haskell erected a gated entrance and established strict regulations governing property ownership and residency. The development of Llewellyn Park was guided by principles of landscape architecture and urban planning, with an emphasis on preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Haskell enlisted the renowned landscape architect Andrew Jackson Downing to design the layout of the community, incorporating winding roads, spacious lots, and lush greenery to create a serene and idyllic environment.
Llewellyn Park attracted prominent residents, including industrialists, politicians, and cultural figures, who built grand estates and summer homes within its gated confines. Now comprised of 421 acres, Llewellyn Park was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
Notable residents of Llewellyn Park have included Thomas Edison, the inventor; Charles Lewis Tiffany, the founder of Tiffany & Co.; and members of the Edison, Vanderbilt, and Astor families. Over the years, Llewellyn Park has retained its reputation as an exclusive enclave of historic homes and natural beauty.
The community is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its significance as an early example of planned suburban development in America. The Llewellyn Park Association manages the community, ensuring the maintenance of common areas, enforcing architectural standards, and organizing events for residents.
Today, Llewellyn Park continues to be a sought-after residential area, offering a unique blend of historic charm, architectural beauty, and natural tranquility. Its legacy as the oldest gated community in America endures as a testament to the vision of its founder and the enduring appeal of its picturesque setting.
Llewellyn Park remains a prestigious and highly desirable residential enclave. It continues to offer a unique blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and natural tranquility, attracting those who appreciate its rich heritage and serene living environment.