Major Hoops
Major Robert Hoops was one of
the first non-Indian settlers in this area, arriving
just prior to the Revolutionary War in 1769. He purchased
land on both sides of the Pequest river, having realized
its potential value as a source of water power. He
damned the river, set up several mills and other water
powered plants along it. Major Hoops was an active
businessman, operating a sawmill and gristmill. Additionally
he sold grain, flour, and produce as far as Philadelphia.
He also operated a major slaughterhouse that is known
to have supplied Washington’s army, especially when
it was stationed in Morris County.
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