Millville Water Department

Millville Water Department Municipal Water Report Info

The City of Millville originated at what is now Union Lake. In 1776, Joseph Smith and associates formed the Union Estates Company, purchasing 24,000 acres and establishing a mill at the Maurice River headwaters. To power this mill, they constructed a dam along the northern section of the Maurice River, creating the first significant development along the waterway. A second dam was built in the 1860s at its current location, replacing the original upstream structure.

Captain Joseph Buck, a Revolutionary War veteran who served under George Washington, was the first to recognize the potential of this forested riverside land. In 1795, he developed plans for the town, with lots quickly selling before the township's official organization in 1801. By his death in 1803, fewer than 20 houses existed in the area.

The name "Millville" emerged in the 1790s, reflecting the numerous mills and factories planned for the site. South Jersey's abundant silica sand (fine white sand similar to coastal beaches) made the area ideal for the glass industry that remains a source of local pride today.

Millville was incorporated as a city by state legislature in 1866, initially operating under a mayor-council government until 1913. That year, the Walsh Act established the current commission form of government with five elected commissioners, one serving as mayor.

Key Facts
Millville is situated in Cumberland County in southern New Jersey, approximately 45 miles from Philadelphia, 120 miles from New York City, and 140 miles from Washington, D.C. It's positioned between the southern terminals of the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, State Highway 55 (running through the northeastern city section), and the Atlantic City Expressway.

Neighboring areas include Deerfield Township, Lawrence Township, Downe Township, Commercial Township, Maurice River Township, and Vineland City. Natural attractions include Union Lake, over 4,000 acres of upland, the Maurice River, and two Wildlife Management Areas.

Covering about 44.3 square miles, the land use breakdown is: 8% agriculture; 8% commercial and industrial; 10% residential; 13% municipal facilities, schools, recreation, water, sewer, streets, and airport; with the remaining 61% vacant land and forests.

Transportation options include bus service to Philadelphia, New York City, and Wilmington, Delaware, plus several motor freight carriers connecting Millville with major cities. The Millville Municipal Airport serves as an air freight terminal and maintenance field. Water transportation is available via the Maurice River, navigable to the city center.