Trenton

Trenton is the capital city of the U.S. state of New Jersey and the county seat of Mercer County. It lies along the Delaware River across from Morrisville, Pennsylvania, and is one of the state’s oldest communities. The city was settled in the 17th century and named after William Trent, a colonial-era merchant and landowner.

Trenton played a pivotal role in the American Revolution; the Continental Army achieved a crucial victory after crossing the Delaware River and winning the Battle of Trenton on December 26, 1776. In later years the city became the seat of New Jersey’s state government, and the New Jersey State House remains the center of state political life.

Geographically, Trenton sits in central New Jersey in the Delaware Valley and is part of the broader Northeast corridor. The Trenton Transit Center is a major rail hub serving Amtrak and New Jersey Transit, providing direct connections to New York City and Philadelphia. The riverfront area has been a focus of redevelopment and urban renewal.

Local government operates as a city with a mayor and council. The city is served by Trenton Public Schools, and nearby higher education institutions include The College of New Jersey in Ewing and Rider University in Lawrenceville. The New Jersey State Library and the New Jersey State Museum are located in Trenton, reflecting its role as a state capital.

Notable cultural institutions include the New Jersey State Museum and the Old Barracks, with the Trenton Battle Monument commemorating the Revolutionary War victory and the city’s long-standing historical significance.