America's Largest WWI Embarkation Camp Was In New Jersey And It Has A Fascinating, Deadly History
Kristen
Author
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New Jersey has a rich wartime history, from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Though we’re not currently at war, the Picatinny Arsenal continues important research and manufacturing efforts, should the time ever come. You’re probably already familiar with the Picatinny Arsenal, though you may not know about Camp Merritt, an integral part of WWI operations.
Opened for about 27 months, the 770-acre camp had nearly 1,200 buildings. There were four YMCAs, four firehouses, seven tailor shops, 15 post offices, 165 mess halls, 93 hospital buildings, and plenty more. There was one of the finest officers clubs in the United States and the camp even had its own theater. Before shipping out or heading home, soldiers would spend 1-2 weeks at this lively place, playing billiards and enjoying shows.
Unfortunately, it wasn't all fun and games. Soldiers left the grounds and committed crimes, including murder. A 23-year-old soldier killed a cab driver over a $10 fare. Then, there was the influenza outbreak in 1918. 15 officers, 558 enlistees, four nurses and one civilian died at the camp, most from the flu.
By 1920, the camp was closed and remaining soldiers were sent to Fort Dix. It was dismantled, though many buildings were moved around Bergen County to provide housing. You can still see remnants today - the Demarest Library was once one of the camp's YMCA buildings. You'll also find a monument to the soldiers who spent time at Camp Merritt on the border of Dumont and Cresskill. The obelisk is quite imposing!
Did you know about this little piece of New Jersey military history? There’s plenty more. Let me know if you’d be interested in future articles on the subject.
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