Photo Credit: https://www.ahhistory.org/archive
Perched at the edge of Sandy Hook Bay and hugging the Atlantic coastline, Highlands, New Jersey, is a small town with a surprisingly rich history. Long before it became a beloved beach town or home to The Honorable Plant, Highlands was known for its strategic importance, artistic charm, and maritime grit.
Highlands played a vital role in the early defense of the coastline. The twin lighthouses at the top of the Navesink Highlands, known today as the Twin Lights, once helped guide ships into New York Harbor. These beacons weren’t just beautiful; they were revolutionary. In fact, the Twin Lights were the site of the first use of a Fresnel lens in the U.S. and one of the first places to test Marconi’s wireless telegraph.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Highlands began transforming into a summer escape for New Yorkers. Steamboats would arrive daily, dropping off city dwellers eager to trade the Manhattan bustle for sea breezes and fresh clams. Locals opened their homes, restaurants, and oyster bars, creating the foundation for the warm, neighborly culture that still defines Highlands today.
Photo Credit: https://www.highlandsnj.com/history/StoryOfHighlands.shtml
The fishing and clamming industries were the backbone of the local economy for generations. Stories of multi-generational clammers and boat captains still echo through the town’s marinas. Even today, the connection to the water runs deep, from waterfront dining to early morning fishing trips and weekend kayaking on the Shrewsbury River.
But Highlands hasn’t just been shaped by water and work, it’s always had a creative streak. In the 1960s and 70s, it attracted a tight-knit community of artists and writers, drawn to the town’s beauty, quirk, and sense of freedom. That spirit continues, with small businesses, makers, and independent thinkers giving the town its distinct personality.
At The Honorable Plant, we’re proud to be part of this legacy, rooted in community, shaped by nature, and always moving forward with purpose. Whether you’re a longtime local or just discovering Highlands for the first time, we invite you to experience all the charm and character this town has to offer. Order online and visit in store!