Where to find geological history in Madison Borough
August 6th, 2010
Where you can find geological history in Madison Borough?
I remember when my children were little and I wanted to show them interesting things in the area, it was a true labor of love to uncover tidbits to share. Yes, I’m showing my age, that was before the internet, now the kids are in their 20’s and living on their own. So here are a few nuggets for you to share while chauffeuring your children to various events.
Madison is located on a ridge spanning from Summit to Morristown. The glacier which melted around the ridge was named, “The Wisconsin Glacier” which was formed some 10,000 years ago. The wetlands now known as the Great Swamp are on either side of the ridge. After the glacier melted, Madison was a gigantic lake: Lake Passaic. It’s difficult to imagine Madison under water with the “Hill Section” as little islands poking through, but it’s all true.
According to Rosenet Community Network for Madison there are still some “potholes” to be found from the huge chunks of ice from the melting glacier. The largest pot hole can be found on Glenwild Road. Located on Drew University’s property to be exact. Morris County acquired it and now presents as Public Parkland. The Moraine is its proper name.
The ridge which was formed produced a natural bypass for travel, now what we know as Kings Road. Prior to that, the Lenape Indians used this route and called it the Minisink Trail.
Morris County is steeped in history of all kinds. As their layers are revealed, new perspectives come to light. Explore and enjoy all this land has to offer.
Future blogs on the subject.
Until then,
Posted by: 
Caroline Vanleer
