Colonial Period

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New Jersey was a major battleground. There were about one hundred battles fought in the New Jersey region. New Jersey’s family and culture was much like other colonies. People lived in little houses in villages. Families would come together and build fires at night so they could read the bible together. They were hearty drinkers and eaters. Most of the families had vegetable gardens. The first colonists were taught by the Indians to grow and prepare their gardens. Apples, peaches, peas, carrots, cherries, plums and lettuce were other food sources they used to eat. They also raised pigs, chickens and cows for food. Water was not a popular drink because it was hard to keep clean, so beer was the main beverage. These people living in the colonial period were very hard workers. Usually me would run the business, but not all the time. Women would take over their husband’s business when he passed, along with all the housework. Most had lots of children which was good in the long run because they would help out on the farms and with the other chorus.

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Related New Jersey Overview Articles

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• New Jersey Overview
• Delaware Indians
• Colonial Period
• Early Statehood
• Industry, Immigrants and Innovation
• The 1900's
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