History:
Known originally as the “West Fields”, the western portion of the Elizabethtown tract, the community retained a rural character for almost 200 years, being divided into 100 acre farm plots. In 1699, the West Fields encompassed all of present day Westfield, Scotch Plains, Plainfield, Fanwood, Clark, Garwood, Mountainside and part of Cranford. When track was laid for the Elizabethtown and Somerville Railroad in 1838, the town developed into a suburban commuter community.
Westfield was once a popular trail for the Lenni-Lenape Indians, whose heritage remains in many streets named for them. It was then settled by immigrants from Europe more than three hundred years ago.
Westfield is an attractive town noted for its beautiful downtown area and convenient commute to New York City. A large segment of the residents commutes daily.
Westfield has been able to sustain the residential tradition begun in the late 19th century, with several areas officially designated as historic homes sections. The town continues to draw prosperous residents to its attractive neighborhoods, many of whom are famous artists, musicians, high government officials and sports people. The town is distinguished by its single family homes, broad tree-lined streets and cultural and community recreational programs. It boasts a high rate of community involvement and volunteerism.
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