If you’ve spent some time in Downtown Trenton, you’ve hopefully been able to stroll through the Mill Hill neighborhood. This charming corner of the Capital City is home to stunning homes, darling designs, and a tight-knit community devoted to preserving and uplifting this part of our community. Like other parts of Trenton, Mill Hill has a storied past and a rich history hidden in every corner. Today, let’s stroll through the ages and dive into the magic of the Mill Hill neighborhood.
Where did the name Mill Hill come from? As it turns out, we have to travel back almost 350 years to find the answer. In 1679, a grist mill was built in the community, marking the region’s first site of industrialization. Over the years, the district has been defined by its historical prevalence, including its role in the Revolutionary War. The name “Mill Hill” first came about around 1821 and has been the moniker for this marvelous community ever since.
The Mill Hill neighborhood is a quaint neighborhood spanning about ten blocks along the outskirts of Trenton’s bustling Downtown region. Although there’s much to be amazed by in Mill Hill, the area is best known for its assortment of 19th-century housing. The first home in Mill Hill was built in 1826, and the community has been pouring into its preservation ever since.
In the 1960s, Mill Hill was threatened by aggressive development, which could have destroyed the region’s historic nature. Thankfully, a devoted group of citizens stood up against these threats and preserved this critical piece of our community’s history. This devotion to civics has defined the Mill Hill neighborhood, still playing a significant role in how the society functions today.
Beyond the remarkable architecture, however, what truly makes Mill Hill stand out is the commitment of its residents to investing in the region. In an actual neighborhood, community members work together to enhance their daily lives and invite visitors to participate in the magic. Throughout the year, the Old Mill Hill Society will host house tours, including the upcoming Holiday tour, allowing guests to glimpse inside these iconic homes. A diverse community in every sense of the word. All are welcome to make their home in this part of Trenton.
There is plenty to do in the Mill Hill community, from a stroll along the canal in Mill Hill Park to a tour of the historic homes lining every street. There is also no shortage of entertainment in the area, as the neighborhood is home to the Mill Hill Playhouse. The Playhouse hosts unforgettable performances throughout the year courtesy of the Passage Theatre Company, another community staple in Trenton and beyond. Activities are abundant for young and old guests, making this the perfect spot for your next-day trip to the Capital City.
The Mill Hill neighborhood is undoubtedly something to marvel at and is best experienced by visiting for yourself. The next time you pass through Downtown Trenton, make a pit stop in the Mill Hill neighborhood because you’re sure to be impressed by what you find!
