Stories of New Jersey

"Stories of New Jersey" by Frank R. Stockton is a compilation of historical accounts from the late 1800s, recounting significant moments and early history of New Jersey by telling tales of the native people, European explorers, and settlers that shaped the area. These stories, arranged in chronological order, offer a window into the state's native culture and the important encounters with European powers. The book starts with the Lenni-Lenape Indians, explores their origins, depicts their early migrations and illustrates the discovery of New Jersey, named Scheyichbi. Included in the narrative is how they interacted with other tribes, like the Iroquois, reflects on their society, customs, and governance. Rich storytelling explains the Lenape's interactions with European explorers Sebastian Cabot and Henry Hudson, thus setting the stage for a deep dive into the historical and cultural importance of New Jersey as it moved from a native territory to a point of contention for European powers.