Other meanings of Teaneck, New Jersey
Geography
Teaneck is a township in Bergen County, New Jersey, United States, located approximately 12 miles northwest of Midtown Manhattan. Known for its diverse population and suburban character, it is often cited as one of the first communities in the nation to voluntarily integrate its public schools. The township is home to Fairleigh Dickinson University's Metropolitan Campus and a significant Jewish community, contributing to its cultural and religious diversity.
Teaneck was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans and was settled by Europeans in the 17th century. The township was incorporated in 1895, carved from portions of Hackensack and Ridgefield townships. Its name is derived from the Dutch or Lenape word meaning 'woods' or 'wilderness'. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred residential development, transforming it from farmland into a commuter suburb. The post-World War II era saw rapid suburbanization, with the construction of many single-family homes and the establishment of the Garden State Parkway, which runs through the township.
Teaneck is known for its ethnic and religious diversity. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the population is approximately 45,000, with a significant African American population (around 20%) and a large Jewish community (estimated at 25-30%). The township has several synagogues, including the Teaneck Jewish Center and Congregation Beth Abraham. The presence of Fairleigh Dickinson University adds a youthful and international element. The township also hosts an annual 'Teaneck International Film Festival' and a vibrant arts scene, with the Teaneck Creek Conservancy offering nature trails and educational programs.
The Teaneck Public Schools system serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, and is notable for its voluntary integration plan implemented in 1955, which was a model for other districts. The township is home to several landmarks, including the historic Puffin Cultural Forum, which promotes social justice through the arts, and the Teaneck Armory, built in 1936 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Richard Rodda Community Center and the Teaneck Public Library are central community hubs. Fairleigh Dickinson University's campus includes the Rothman Center, a venue for sports and events.
Teaneck has several lesser-known distinctions. It was the site of the first 'drive-through' bank in the United States, opened in 1946 by the Teaneck National Bank. The township also has a unique 'Teaneck Creek' restoration project, which transformed a former landfill into a 46-acre nature preserve. Teaneck's 'Cedar Lane' commercial district is known for its kosher restaurants and shops, reflecting the Jewish community's influence. The township was also a stop on the Underground Railroad, with several homes serving as safe houses. Additionally, Teaneck is home to the 'Teaneck Community Band', one of the oldest community bands in New Jersey, founded in 1925.
This article is based on publicly available data and historical records.
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