Category: Upper Freehold

NJ Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service Held

June 3, 2023

ALLENTOWN – UPPER FREEHOLD TWP., NJ (MONMOUTH)–The New Jersey Fallen Firefighters Memorial and Fire Equipment Museum held the 2023 annual Memorial Service this afternoon at 1:00 p.m. This is a special tribute to Our Fallen Firefighters. “Those brave and courageous heroes who un-selflessly dedicated their lives, fighting to protect the lives and property of people, some of them they knew and many of them they would never meet. Their memory lives in our hearts and with the families left behind.”

Those who have died in the Line-of-Duty in New Jersey in 2022:

Harrison Fire Department – Vincent Doffont

Keyport Fire Department – Timothy Pfleger

Saddle Brook Fire Department – Basil Pizzuto

Upper Saddle River Fire Department – Alex Moss

Westwood Fire Department – Kevin May

According to The U.S. Fire Administration statistics there have been 30 firefighter fatalities in the United States in 2023 as of June 3, 2023.

Subscribe to the new Mid-Jersey.New YouTube Channel (still double posted on the old channel but needed its own account)



Photos: Anthony Greco





F-250 Pickup Strikes Pedestrian And Flees The Scene In Upper Freehold Township

May 19, 2023

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Sgt. Philip Curry of the New Jersey State Police, Office of Public Information told MidJersey.News that a crash occurred at 8:58 p.m. last night on Miers Road near Burlington Path Road in Upper Freehold Township.  Based on initial information, an unknown Ford F-250 struck a vehicle and a pedestrian and fled the scene.  The pedestrian sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital.  The F-250 operator has not been identified and this crash is still under investigation.


More Warehouses Proposed For Central New Jersey Next To Allentown

ED Note: This information was supplied directly from Allentown Borough’s Newsletter. For the latest information see the Allentown Borough website and check the Announcements page on the website.

May 5, 2023

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Allentown Borough Officials, Allentown and Upper Freehold residents have come together to oppose two warehouses with applications to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for a flood hazard area Individual Permit and Freshwater Wetlands GP-6, GP-7, GP-11, and Transition Area Waiver – Averaging Plan. The site is proposed to construct two proposed warehouses and ancillary parking, sidewalks, driveways, loading docks, stormwater and utility improvements. The complete permit application package can be reviewed at the municipal clerks’ office or by appointment at the Department of Environmental Protection Trenton Office.

According to an email sent by Allentown Borough on May 2, 2023, The Borough has assembled a professional team that includes Borough Engineer Carmela Roberts, PE, CME; Land-Use Attorney Michele R. Donato; and  Environmental Consultant Attorney Stuart J. Lieberman.  These professionals are working with the Governing Body on a response statement and template letter that residents can use to oppose this development on our borders. It will be posted as soon as it is received.  


Take action by Thursday, May 11th to oppose the proposed Stein warehouse development on Old York Road

Below are all of the documents the Borough has received relating to the proposed development of the Stein property on Old York Road. This property is also known as Block 26, Lots 1 & 3 in Upper Freehold Township and Block 41.01, Lots 3 & 4 in Robbinsville Township. There is an application before the Monmouth County Planning Board and we expect that one will be before the Upper Freehold Township Planning Board. 

The Borough has assembled a professional team that includes Borough Engineer Carmela Roberts, PE, CME and Environmental Consultant Attorney Stuart J. Lieberman to represent the Borough as the applications move forward, but we still need your help to voice opposition to this development.

Use the template below to respond to the NJDEP in writing by Thursday, May 11th. If you are a resident of Indian Run, we also ask you to include any information about flooding on or around your property with supporting photographs or videos. Letters can be sent to the NJDEP directly. Copies of letters, photographs or videos sent can be dropped off at Borough Hall or sent to Clerk@AllentownBoroNJ.com. 


 Bohler’s Letter to the Borough- April 26, 2023
 Bohler’s Letter to the Borough- April 27, 2023
 Ecolsciences Freshwater Wetlands Environmental Report- April 28, 2023
 Mapping and photographs- March 24, 2023
 David Steinberg’s Letter to the NJDEP- January 24, 2023
 Template Letter Word
 Template Letter PDF

ED Note: This information was supplied directly from Allentown Borough’s Newsletter. For the latest information see the Allentown Borough website and check the Announcements page on the website.




Residents have started a petition that can be viewed here:

https://www.change.org/p/say-no-to-500-000-sq-ft-of-warehouses-next-to-valero-in-upper-freehold-twp?redirect=false

Overdevelopment is once again threatening our rural environment and quality of life. This time, the literal foundations of our towns are at stake.

Active Acquisitions Upper Freehold LLC has applied to build two large warehouses on Block 26, Lots 1, 2, & 3 in Upper Freehold Township (UFT). The builder would pave over 23 acres of UFT farmland on scenic Old York Road! This farmland has been in use for over 200 years!

The plan may require a separate wastewater mitigation system or sewer, potentially leading to MORE WAREHOUSE DEVELOPMENT, affordable housing developments, and HIGHER TAXES from increased school district enrollments. This is how chasing ratables actually ends up INCREASING taxes!

Tell the Upper Freehold Township Committee at Committee@uftnj.com to say NO to:

  • ANY new VARIANCES tied to this proposal
  • MORE TRUCK TRAFFIC from over 100 truck loading docks 
  • INCREASED COSTS for police, fire & first aid services resulting in HIGHER TAXES
  • Required amendments for the construction of new SEWERS
  • Associated HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
  • POORER AIR quality and LIGHT POLLUTION
  • Higher CRIME without a local police force to promptly respond
  • FLOODING due to increases in stormwater 
  • DESTRUCTION of the UFT Township, Monmouth County and NJDOT approved Scenic Byway and loss of open space
  • INCREASED TRAFFIC, CONGESTION, AND EMISSIONS with more than 600 additional cars on our roads
  • IRREVESABLE HARM TO WILDLIFE that use this land as their only home
  • This MEGA WAREHOUSE will degrade the quality of life for residents of Upper Freehold Township, the historic village of Allentown Borough, and everyone in the region.

Your opinions matter! The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) wants your comments. 

Tell the NJDEP to deny the builder’s application for a wetland’s waiver and flood hazard permit. That will only happen if they hear from YOU.

Click HERE for a template a letter of opposition to the NJDEP. The deadline to submit letters is Thursday, May 11 

WRITE A LETTER, SIGN THIS PETITION, AND SHARE https://chng.it/XLwvGSqR4R







Documents below provided by Allentown Borough:

ED Note: This information was supplied directly from Allentown Borough’s Newsletter. For the latest information see the Allentown Borough website and check the Announcements page on the website.








National Weather Service Confirms EF-1 Tornados In Crosswicks And Allentown-Cream Ridge Areas

April 3, 2023

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The National Weather Service Mount Holly has determined that tornadoes hit the Crosswicks, Allentown-Cream Ridge areas during the storms of April 1, 2023. The National Weather Service determined them to be in the EF-1 range with an estimated maximum of 90 MPH. Further details will be are yet to be determined such as path and width of the tornados. Check back for updates.

Allentown-Cream Ridge Tornado…

Rating:                 EF-1
Estimated Peak Wind:    110 mph
Path Length /statute/:  4.0 miles
Path Width /maximum/:   550 yards
Fatalities:             0
Injuries:               0

Start Date:             April 1, 2023
Start Time:             7:14 PM EDT
Start Location:         Allentown / Monmouth County / NJ
Start Lat/Lon:          40.1541 / -74.5715

End Date:               April 1, 2023
End Time:               7:17 PM EDT
End Location:           Upper Freehold Twp / Monmouth County / NJ
End Lat/Lon:            40.1484 / -74.4965

A new QLCS tornado developed just west of a neighborhood on 
Walnford Road southeast of Allentown. The most significant damage 
from the tornado occurred to properties within the neighborhood, 
especially those along an open field to the southeast. The tornado
was also near its widest point in this area. Numerous trees were 
uprooted or snapped within the neighborhood. A few homes sustained
removal of roofing material, siding removal, windows blown out, 
and a couple garage doors blown out. Damage in this area was 
consistent with wind speeds estimated to be near 110 mph. An 
irrigation pivot was blown into a fence separating the 
neighborhood and the field where it was toppled over, partially 
into some residential yards.

The tornado continued eastward across the field toward Allentown 
Davis Station Road where another shorter irrigation pivot was 
overturned. Along the road, several trees were snapped or uprooted
near and northwest of the intersection with Polhemustown Road and
Holmesmill Road. A wooden power pole was also leaning in the 
direction of the tornado’s motion. The tornado continued east 
along Allentown Davis Station Road where more mainly minor tree 
damage occurred. At the traffic circle intersection with Sharon 
Station Road, several road signs were blown down in various 
directions. The tornado moved east-southeastward into a field just
south of a farmstead and north of Davis Station Road. The tornado
entered another wooded residential area near the intersection of 
Davis Station Road ans Harvey Road where more significant tree 
damage occurred and the tornadic circulation widened. The tornado 
moved east across Meirs Road where numerous trees were snapped or 
uprooted on residential properties, once of which fell onto power 
lines.

The tornado moved east toward a residential neighborhood along 
Long Acre Drive where some additional tree damage occurred. The 
tornado moved east of the residential area across a tree line and 
then dissipated in an open field along Emleys Hill-Prospertown 
Road.

Crosswicks-Hamilton Twp NJ Tornado…

Rating:                 EF-1
Estimated Peak Wind:    100 mph
Path Length /statute/:  2.8 miles
Path Width /maximum/:   300 yards
Fatalities:             0
Injuries:               0

Start Date:             April 1, 2023
Start Time:             7:08 PM EDT
Start Location:         Crosswicks / Burlington County / NJ
Start Lat/Lon:          40.1525 / -74.6461

End Date:               April 1, 2023
End Time:               7:11 PM EDT
End Location:           Upper Freehold Twp / Monmouth County / NJ
End Lat/Lon:            40.1550 / -74.5945

After a straight line wind event upstream toward Bordentown along
Ward Avenue, a QLCS tornado developed in the village of 
Crosswicks around 7:08 PM EDT. Much of the damage in Crosswicks 
was primarily tree damage with numerous trees uprooted or snapped.
Additional straight line wind damage occurred south of the 
village that was not directly related to the tornadic circulation.
The tornado moved east out of the village just north of Ellisdale
Road where fairly significant tree damage continued on 
residential properties. The tornado moved into an inaccessible 
wooded area along Crosswicks Creek where it crossed into Hamilton 
Twp in Mercer County. It emerged along a tree line near the back 
of the Sawmill YMCA property where it continued east toward the 
intersection of Sawmill Road and Iron Bridge Road. Near this 
intersection, several trees were uprooted.

The tornado continued east along Sawmill Road toward Extonville 
Road Where additional trees were uprooted. The tornado dissipated 
in a field around 7:11 PM EDT east of Extonville Road where it 
crossed just over the Monmouth County boarder into Upper Freehold 
Twp. No additional tornadic damage was observed east of this field
across Ellisdale Road until the next tornado began near Walnford 
Road.





Storm damage from the April 1, 2023 storm as seen on April 2, 2023.


Driver Charged With Death By Auto, DWI And Other Charges In Fatal Crash That Killed Motorcyclist From Upper Freehold Twp., NJ

April 3, 2023

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Robbinsville Police have identified the victim of the fatal crash on Friday March 31, 2023, on Old York Road at Montgomery Way as Jake Schreck, 22, of Upper Freehold Township, NJ.

Police say that on March 31, 2023, at 5:40 p.m. Police, Fire and EMS responded to the area of Old York Road (CR Route 539) and Montgomery Way for a motor vehicle crash with injuries. Upon arrival police found two vehicles, a Harley Davidson Motorcycle, and a Toyota Camry. The operator of the motorcycle was treated and transported to RWJ at Hamilton Hospital where he was later pronounced.

The Robbinsville Police Department Criminal Investigations Unit along with the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Serious Collision Response Team investigated the crash. The roadway was closed for approximately three hours for the investigation.

Today Robbinsville Police reported that they have charged Ketan Kabaria, 47, of Yardley, Pennsylvania who was driving a Toyota Camry with the following offenses. Death By Auto (2nd Degree), Driving While Intoxicated, Careless Driving and Failure to yield right of way at an intersection. Kabaria, was placed under arrest and was later transported to the Mercer County Correctional Facility.

Anyone with pertinent information related to this case is asked to contact the Robbinsville Township Police Criminal Investigations Unit at 609-259-3900



Storm Damage Reported In Hamilton And Upper Freehold Townships

April 3, 2023 Update:

The National Weather Service will be conducting storm surveys in the area of Crosswicks/Hamilton and Cream Ridge, NJ

April 2, 2023

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)-UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The National Weather Service has not issued a tornado damage report for the areas damaged by yesterday’s storms for Hamilton and Upper Freehold Township. The line of damage starts prior to the Sawmill YMCA Day Camp and Miracle Filed for the Miracle League of Mercer County and continues a path of destruction for about 5 miles though Upper Freehold Township near the Cream Ridge Winery and past County Road 539 just north of the golf course. See map below designed by Brian K. from Twitter in regards to Midjersey.news post on the NWS Mount Holly Twitter.

So far there have been four confirmed tornados in New Jerey, Jackson Township, Sea Girt, Howell Township, and Cinnaminson. The damage in Hamilton and Upper Freehold Township has not been listed as of 8:00 p.m. April, 2.

The Miracle League of Mercer County, NJ was supposed to have an Opening Day and Easter Egg Hunt but had to be cancelled due to the storm damage at the Sawmill Road Facility.

Week 2 games originally scheduled for Wednesday, April 5 and Thursday, April 6 will also – unfortunately – be cancelled.
We will provide updates via email, text alert, and social media throughout the week.


Graphic from Twitter posted by Brian K

PSE&G workers replace a pole this morning, April 2, 2023, that was damaged by yesterday’s storm (April 1, 2023) on Groveville – Allentown Road.


Storm damage in Hamilton Township, Mercer County, NJ at the Sawmill YMCA Day Camp and Recreation Center, Miracle Filed, on Sawmill Road.



Storm damage in Upper Freehold Township, Monmouth County in the area of Walnford Road, Quaker Hill Road, Tyler Court, and Polhemustown Roads this afternoon. Many trees were damaged, trees on houses, and farm irrigation equipment damage.


Numerous Roadways Closed In Central, NJ After Storms Move Through Area

April 1, 2023

JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–The Ocean County Sheriff’s Department is urging the public in Jackson Township to stay off the roads this evening due to multiple trees, poles, and wires down!

Jackson Mills Fire Company posted Jackson Twp has multiple trees and power lines down throughout the town. It is dark and you may not see many hazards that emergency services have not gotten to yet. Please stay home tonight and stay safe.

There are also numerous trees and wires down throughout Upper Freehold Township. Upper Freehold Township Emergency Management sent out a notice asking people to stay off the roads tonight around 8:33 p.m. not long after severe thunderstorms with possible tornados moved though the area. Wires poles down in the area of County Road 539, County Road 537, Ellisdale Road

The Wall Township Police Department along with Fire and EMS are responding to numerous calls for service. We have received numerous calls in reference wires down and trees down blocking the roadways. Please do not approach down wires. Please do not travel on roadways unless absolutely necessary

There are poles and wires down in the Crosswicks Hamilton Township area near South Broad Street. There were reports of numerous locations. If traveling in that area be careful tonight.

MidJersey.news has a reporter in Jackson and will be sending in updates. Check back for further details and photos.


UPDATE from Jackson Police Department

First and foremost we hope everyone is safe! There are ALOT of reports of damage throughout the entire town. We are aware of power outages and the power companies along with DPW and county are doing all they can to clean everything up and restore power.

All emergency services are working diligently to get this accomplished.

The following roads are closed at the moment:

– West Commodore Boulevard between Cedar Swamp Road and Diamond Road

– North Cooksbridge Road between Rose Dr and Willow Drive along with parts of South Cooksbridge Road.

We ASK that everyone please stay in doors and off the roads so clean up can be completed safely. Please don’t venture out to assess the damage, we will take care of that.

As always do not hesitate to call us if you need our assistance or emergency services! Please refrain from calling us about power outages as we are aware and our dispatchers are fielding a high volume of calls.

Thank you for your cooperation and stay safe!!!


Jackson Township, New Jersey after the storms tonight. Photo from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office.


Photos below by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response




Hail that fell in Robbinsville – Allentown – Upper Freehold Township area.

Two Extricated From Crash In Upper Freehold Township With Non-Life Threating Injuries

Updated: February 27, 2023

Update from the New Jersey State Police Public Information Unit.

Tpr. II Charles Marchan told MidJersey.News that Troopers responded to an motor vehicle crash on Saturday at 4:54 p.m. at the intersection of County Road 524 and Sharon Station Road, Upper Freehold, Monmouth County. 

Based on a preliminary investigation a vehicle was traveling on 524 and another vehicle was traveling on Sharon Station Road.  The vehicles were involved in a collision in the intersection causing one of the vehicles to overturn.  The occupants were transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 


February 25, 2023

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–At 4:54 p.m. Hope Fire Company of Allentown and Millstone Township Fire Department was dispatched to County Road 524 & Sharon Station Road for an overturned into a utility pole with entrapment.  Enroute Chief 82-66 requested the rescue from Millstone and additional BLS from Robbinsville due to confirmed report of multiple trapped. Upon arrival there was a two-vehicle crash with two trapped patients in the overturn both requiring ALS-Advance Life Support care sending a second medic to the scene. Upon arrival of first due ALS unit, a medevac helicopter was requested to fly. The first victim extricated around the 25-minute mark and second around the 40-minute mark. Robbinsville Ambulance 40 transported first patient by ground to Captial Health System Trauma Center in Trenton. RWJ Barnabas medevac landed in field adjacent to the scene and transported the second patient to RWJUH New Brunswick with serious injuries. No further details about the crash are available. (See Update Above from NJSP)


Photos sent into MidJesey.news


16-Year-Old Allentown High School Student Suffers Fatal Injuries After Being Struck By Car While Jogging

February 17, 2023

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Sgt. Philip Curry of the New Jersey State Police Public Information Unit stated that a crash occurred at 7:46 a.m. on County Route 539 northbound at mile post 37.72 in Upper Freehold Twp. The preliminary investigation revealed that a Kia Soul was traveling north on CR-539 when it struck a 16-year-old pedestrian. After impacting the pedestrian, the Kia crossed the center line and traveled up a grass embankment. As a result of the crash the pedestrian sustained fatal injuries. The crash remains under investigation.


Letter sent to Staff, Parents, and Students this afternoon from Mark Guterl Superintendent of Schools:

February 17, 2023

Dear UFRSD Family,

It is with great sadness that I must inform you about the tragic loss of one of our students. This morning we learned that a student from Allentown High School was struck by a car while jogging. Having gone through the UFRSD school system, this passing has deeply impacted our entire school community. 

The UFRSD staff at each of our schools was informed of the student’s passing during the school day. Counseling support services were and continue to be available. Members of our Crisis Team have been working with our counselors and other staff members to help students and staff deal with this difficult news.

We encourage and invite any student or staff member who needs support during this difficult time to come to Allentown High School tomorrow, Saturday, February 18 between 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. where our school counselors will be available for support. 

Please realize that reactions to death are varied and can depend upon such factors as age, personality, previous losses, and relationship to the victim.  If you feel your child has been affected by this situation, you can assist your child by doing the following:

  • Take time to listen to and talk with your child about what has happened.
  • Reassure your child that you will be available to help them through this difficult time.
  • Help your child verbalize some of the feelings they might be feeling but are unable to express.
  • Reassure your child that you will do all you can to keep them safe.  Providing specific examples may help to reduce some of the fear and anxiety.
  • Discuss some of the things you and your child might do to express your concern for the family.   

As it is a long weekend, don’t hesitate to reach out at any time if you are in need of support in any way.


Mark Guterl
Superintendent of Schools



Traffic Alert: County Road 539 In Upper Freehold Closed Due To Crash

February 17, 2023

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 7:45 a.m. Upper Freehold Firefighters/ Hope Fire Company of Allentown was dispatched to County Road 539 near Arneytown Hornerstown Road for a pedestrian accident just north of County Road 537 / Monmouth Road.

Hope Fire Company reports: Crews are operating at a serious incident at the intersection of 539 & 537. Due to the severity of the incident the intersection is shut down. Please avoid at all costs and use caution in the area.

Allentown Captial Heath EMS is also on scene and requested a second ambulance.

New Jersey State Police are on scene investigating.

When further details become available the story will be updated.


Ravens Ice Hockey Hosts “Skate For Nate” Benefit

February 15, 2023

WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Last night, February 14, 2023, the Robbinsville-Allentown Ravens put on quite the show when they played none other than… the Robbinsville-Allentown Ravens! At an intra-squad game to remember, the Cancer Crushers took on the Red Blood Cells in the fight against sarcoma in honor of Nathan Ugi, a 12-year old 7th grader from Stonebridge Middle School in Allentown.

Nate was on-hand to drop the ceremonial puck under an honor guard of sticks and was presented a magic jersey signed by all the players and coaches. “We know that sometimes going through health issues can be a tough go, so we want you to know when things get a little bit tough and you feel a little down, you put on this magic jersey and it makes things a little bit better for you”, Coach Dan Bergan shared.

Team Nate bracelets and keychains were sold at the event and over $1,200 has been raised to offset Nate’s medical expenses and “more has been coming in all day. The love our community and hockey family has shared for Nate is so spectacular”, Amy Weltner shared.

After a grueling hour-long scrimmage, with a few antics thrown in for good measure and some light-hearted laughs – the Cancer Crushers took the game in an 11-7 win over the Red Blood Cells. 

As the night wrapped up with a fist bump line with Nate as the players carrying yellow taped sticks with helmet stickers that proclaimed, “We Skate for Nate” exited the ice, Nate’s smile was ear-to-ear and that was the best part of it all. Bergan expressed that “Nate inspired us all to remember what is most important in life. The good in the world lies quiet at times but know that it is there and will rise to the occasion. This is such an occasion.”







Injured Hiker Rescued From Clayton Park In Upper Freehold

February 7, 2023

UPPER FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 1:00 p.m. New Jersey State Police, Monmouth County Park Rangers, Hope Fire Company/Upper Freehold Township Firefighters and Allentown/Captial Health EMS responded to Clayton Park on Emley’s Hill Road for an injured hiker in the woods. Emergency workers located the injured hiker about 300 yards in the woods and removed the hiker to a waiting ambulance by a litter basket more commonly known as a “Stokes Basket” The person was transported with a minor injury to a local hospital by Allentown/Capital Health EMS,



Serious Head On Crash With Multiple Injuries Reported On Old York Road

January 25, 2023

UPPER FREEHOLD (MONMOUTH) ROBBINSVILLE (MERCER)–Around 7:17 p.m. both Robbinsville and Allentown firefighters were dispatched to Old York Road between New Street and Herbert Road for a head on collision with injuries. Robbinsville Police, NJ State Police, Captial Health Allentown EMS and Paramedics, Robbinsville EMS, Millstone Township Fire/EMS and Monmouth County Paramedics also responded to the scene.

Upon arrival it was found that a person in a car ran head on into a pickup truck and the driver of the car was entrapped. Firefighters from both Hope Fire Company of Allentown and Robbinsville Fire Department worked to free the injured driver. The driver was turned over to EMS and transported to the Trauma Center at Captial Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton. A “trauma alert” was called en route to the hospital.

Occupants from the pickup truck were treated by Captial Health EMS Allentown and also transported to Captial Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton.

New Jersey State Police is investigation the crash and currently the roadway is closed for a serious traffic investigation.

No other details are available at this time.

Update at 10:45 p.m. The Hope Fire Company of Allentown was requested to respond back to the scene to help pry the vehicles apart so they could be towed away.

Old York Road borders both Robbinsville in Mercer County and Upper Freehold Township in Monmouth County.



Car Fire On I-195 In Upper Freehold Township

January 16, 2023

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Firefighters from Hope Fire Company responded to I-195 west bound in the area of mile post 10 for a car fire last night January 15, 2023, at 7:43 p.m. When firefighters arrived, they found a car fire with a well involved engine compartment. Firefighters pulled a hose line and quickly extinguished the fire. No additional details are available about the fire.


Bystander photos and video



Person Evaluated After Fall Into Frigid Assunpink Lake As Skiff Overturns

January 16, 2023

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–At 2:16 p.m. the New Jersey State Police, Hope Fire Company/Upper Freehold Firefighters, Conservation Officers, and Captial Health-Allentown, all responded for a report of an overturned kayak with a person in the Assunpink Lake in the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area. Upon arrival a small boat-skiff was found near the island and the person was able to make it back onto the skiff. The skiff was brought ashore, and the person was transferred to emergency medical services to be evaluated after being pulled from the frigid water. It did not appear that there were any injuries in the incident. No other details are available at this time.



The Veterans Of The Ye Olde Robbins Burial Place

December 14, 2022

Photos and story by: Tom Robbins

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Barely visible among the leaves lies an American flag in front of a tombstone with the inscription that reads: “William Thomas Co. C. 29th. Reg. N.J. Vol. Born Oct. 3., 1820 Died Apr. 7, 1904.”  The flag seems new, but the tombstone looks neglected and old. Decorating graves with flags became popular after the Civil War, when General John A. Logan who led an organization for Civil War Veterans called for a nationwide Remembrance Day to honor those who died defending our country.  “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies lie in almost every city, village, hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed. Known initially as Decoration Day, today, it is known as Memorial Day.  Memorial Day, is set aside to honor those who lost their lives during war, while Veterans Day is a day to celebrate all who have served.

In 1931, Lieutenant Soden, who had been recording the names of veterans in New Jersey cemeteries, and County Superintendent of Soldiers’ Graves, Robert Miler, took on the task of planting flags on all soldier’s graves not just those who died in service to this country. They visited various Monmouth County cemeteries including Covell Hill (aka Ye Olde Robbins Burial Place). 

The Civil War veterans buried in the Ye Olde Robbins Burial Place include Thomas and three others: Samuel Rose, Enoch Giberson and Mathias Barcalow Estel. William Thomas was the son of William Thomas, Sr., and Mary Holman. He married Margert Perrine and had eight daughters. He served as a Private in the 29th Regiment from August 25, 1862 to June 30, 1863.

Enoch Giberson, Jr. also served in the 29th Regiment of the NJ Volunteers as a Private from August 25, 1862 to June 30, 1863.  He was the son of Enoch Giberson, Sr., and Phebe Anderson. His grandfather, James Giberson, served in the militia during the Revolutionary War.  He never married and lived in Millstone near the burial ground.

 Samuel Rose, born on June 20, 1838 to Witron and Rebecca Rose, served in Company E, 11th Regiment New Jersey Volunteers from September 27, 1864 to June 28, 1865.  He also lived in the vicinity of the Robbins Burial Ground at the time of his death on December 22, 1912. He married Elizabeth Estel whose brother Mathias Barcalow Estel served in the Civil War.

Mathias Estel lived near Red Valley and was married to Jane Smires in 1851 who died in 1895. He served in the 10th Regiment of the New Jersey Volunteers from September 19, 1864 to June 22, 1865.  

Four Civil War veterans lie peacefully on top of Covell Hill marking time till judgement day.


However, a fifth veteran, a Revolutionary War one interred here, is Randal Robbins who was born May 27, 1739 and died April 19, 1798.  He served in Captain Robert Rhea’s Monmouth County Militia.

Randal lived on the farm of his grandfather, Aaron Robins, south of the I-195 and York Road interchange where the Reed Sod Farm is located. Randal had nine children with his first wife Abigail Rogers and five children with second wife Rebecca Rogers, Abigail’s sister, who married Randal after Abigail’s death in 1785. His descendants became trustees to the Ye Olde Robbins Burial Place handing down the deed of trust to the West, Flock, Rue and Field descendants. In 2020, Mr. Thomas Robbins, a descendant of Randal, discovered that the New Jersey Department of Environment Green Acres program did not acquire the burial ground when they formed the Assunpink Wildlife Management Area.
The burial ground, overgrown with weeds, needs a long overdue cleanup. The Allentown Village Initiative (TAVI) is interested in organizing a cleanup next spring and volunteers are welcome to participate. Details will be forthcoming early next year.

Story excerpted from Mr. Robbins’ book “A Mystery in the Woods – Ye Olde Robbins Burial Place.  To purchase a copy, contact him at tomrobbins@comcast.net.


Location of cemetery on Google Maps


No Serious Injuries Reported In Two Separate Accidents On Old York Road

December 8, 2022

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–There were no reported serious injuries in two separate accidents hours apart in the same location on Old York Road yesterday Wednesday, December 7, 2022.

The first accident was reported in the 1300 Block of Old York Road about 1/8 mile south of Herbert Road when a vehicle left the roadway and ended up in a field of sod. The Robbinsville Township Fire Department and EMS were dispatched at 3:05 p.m. Upon arrival none of the occupants of the vehicle wanted transport to the hospital.

The second accident was reported at 8:00 p.m. when a sport utility vehicle overturned onto its roof in the area as the earlier accident. The Hope Fire Company of Allentown and Allentown-Capital Health EMS were detailed to the scene. Upon arrival the occupants were out of the vehicle and did not wish transport to the hospital. Hope firefighters remained on location until the vehicle was upright and fire police assisted with traffic control.

New Jersey State Police are investigating both crashes. No additional details are available.


The first accident was reported in the 1300 Block of Old York Road about 1/8 mile south of Herbert Road when a vehicle left the roadway and ended up in a field of sod. The Robbinsville Township Fire Department and EMS was dispatched at 3:05 p.m. Upon arrival none of the occupants of the vehicle wanted transport to the hospital.


The second accident was reported at 8:00 p.m. when a vehicle overturned onto its roof in the same area as the earlier accident. The Hope Fire Company of Allentown and Allentown-Capital Health EMS was detailed to the scene. Upon arrival the occupants were out of the vehicle and did not wish transport to the hospital.


Tractor Trailer Hauling Municipal Waste Catches Fire On I-195 In Upper Freehold Township

November 25, 2022

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Firefighters from Hope Fire Company of Allentown were dispatched to I-195 west bound near mile post 9.6 for a tractor trailer smoking at 3:57 p.m. Upon arrival firefighters found a trailer on fire that was disconnected from the tractor and the vehicle was full of municipal waste. Firefighters initially started working on the fire using a 1 3/4 hand line then once the cover over the burning materials was removed switched to deck gun operations. Millstone Township Fire Department brought an engine and a tanker to the scene for additional water and manpower.






Visit Keris Tree Farm & Christmas Shop In Allentown, NJ

November 24, 2022

UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Keris Tree Farm and Christmas Shop is celebrating over 33 years growing, cutting, and selling trees on a 24-acre farm just outside Allentown at 848 Route 524 also known as New Canton Stone Tavern Road. Keris Tree Farm is family owned and operated since 1977 and the first trees were harvested in 1990. The farm has choose-and-cut trees by the foot, balled trees, fresh pre-cut Canadian Balsam and Fraser Fir, wreaths, roping and seasonal greenery.

The Christmas shop is where the magic happens, a winter wonderland of artisan made crafts, decorations and holiday gifts. Maggie has hand curated merchandise from artisans to antiques for over thirty years… her eye for design and vintage holiday decor makes it such a special holiday shopping experience.

2022 Event List:

The Allentown High School Choir will be singing Christmas carols! December 4th 12:30

Backyard Brews will be set up with hot beverages and snacks for sale on 11/26-11/27, 12/3-12/4, and 12/10-12/11. @backyard_brews_

Hours:

Tuesday-Friday 10-5, Saturday and Sunday 9-5, CLOSED MONDAYS

​Closed Thanksgiving Day

Facebook: Keris Tree Farm & Christmas Shop


On the porch you’ll find bundles of greenery for sale, including winterberry, holly, magnolia, branches and many types of evergreen cuttings stocked fresh.




The Christmas shop is where the magic happens! Maggie has hand curated merchandise from artisans to antiques for over thirty years… her eye for design and vintage holiday decor makes it such a special holiday shopping experience. If you’ve never entered the shop you don’t know what you’re missing! The exterior is unassuming but the inside is glowing with many treasures to find.