We might be biased, but when it comes to picking the spot for New Jersey’s capital, Trenton  is the perfect place. Located in the heart of New Jersey, with easy access to Philadelphia, New York City, and the Delaware River, this community sits atop a geographic gold-mine. With countless benefits to offer our state, it’s no surprise that Trenton would ultimately go on to be dubbed NJ’s Capital City. But how are capitals chosen, and what does the process of making that decision look like? Today, let’s take a look at the historic precedents behind selecting a capital and explore how Trenton earned her title as the Garden State’s Capital City.

While the exact process varies in region to region, determining a capital ultimately comes down to strategy. Whether it’s great geographic location, a thriving population, rich resources, or any number of factors, what a city has to offer is a major determinant of where ultimately winds up being dubbed the capital. Generally speaking, the greatest influencing factors in choosing a capital include a location central to the rest of the region, a rich history or significance to the area, and the economic power of that particular environment. When choosing a capital, it is also vital for that state or nation to choose a location which is generally agreed upon by the masses and is not a source of controversy or discord. Socially, environmentally, politically, and economically, a state or nation’s capital city carries an immense weight in the success of its region. With so many key factors at play, it is easy to understand why picking a capital is such a critical task!

Now that we know how capitals are chosen, it begs the question – how did Trenton wind up New Jersey’s capital? The City of Trenton was officially chosen as the Garden State’s capital on November 25th, 1790. Just a couple of short years later, on November 13th, 1792, the City of Trenton was established from within Trenton Township. As we take a look around the city’s geography, it is not hard to see why a location such as this would be economically and politically advantageous. With an abundant ecosystem, proximity to the Delaware River, and centrally located between some of the region’s most powerful territories, Trenton was a promising and plentiful place to establish our state’s seat of government. As a matter of fact, Trenton was such a strategically advantageous location that for a short time, it even served as America’s capital!

What made the Trenton of yesteryear great is the very same reasons for its greatness today. In its modern era, Trenton shines for its remarkable accessibility, proximity to public transit and roadways, and unprecedented historic value. As Trenton continues to carry its legacy as New Jersey’s Capital City, it is a heartening reminder to know that despite the years that divide us, Trentonians both then and now have the opportunity to call this special place our home.

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