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5/17/20

Mullica Hill New Jersey

American Historic Small-Town Itineraries


In the late 17th century, English and Irish Quakers established plantations around the area now known as Mullica Hill. This Quaker community centered on the south bank of Raccoon Creek and was called Spicerville, honoring prominent landowner Jacab Spicer. Originally only the north bank of the creek was known as Mullica Hill, recalling the town’s pioneering Finnish settlers, Eric, John, Olag, and William Mullica who first began purchasing land in 1704. Two of the homes they built still stand on North Main near the creek.

The township’s first period of growth began around 1780 and continued until the 1830’s

Commercial development occurred principally in Spicerville and four of the town’s churches were built there. Many structures from this era can still be seen today along Main Street.

After the Civil War noteworthy Victorian homes and public buildings were built throughout the village, including the Town Hall. During this period, Harrison Township established itself as one of the country’s most productive agricultural areas. A railroad spur was built, and the town became one of the nation’s most active shipping points for agricultural commodities.

This period is commemorated by a reenactment every fall

In 1991, the entire village was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and the New Jersey Register of Historic Places in honor of its historic and architectural significance.


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