Chatham, NJ

Chatham's Main Street rises westward from a shallow Passaic River crossing where the Lenape Minisink Trail passed through what is now the borough. That route later became part of Route 124, and the crossing helped determine where European settlement began in the early 18th century. In July 2025, Chatham had an estimated 10,027 residents in 2.35 square miles of Morris County, compared with 9,212 at the 2020 census. At Chatham station, NJ Transit's current Morris & Essex timetable includes both Hoboken service and Midtown Direct trains to and from New York Penn Station. Several public spaces fit substantial activity into the borough's compact area. Shepard Kollock Park has ballfields, a playground, walking trail, boat launch, picnic shelter, and fenced dog area beside the river.

Memorial Park combines fields, basketball, a playground, picnic tables, and a pool that operates from Memorial Day to Labor Day, while Garden Park has tennis and pickleball courts, basketball, a playground, and a walking path. Railroad Plaza South hosts the borough farmers' market; its 2026 season runs on Saturdays from May 16 through November 14, apart from July 4. The annual Fishawack Festival fills downtown spaces with local businesses, artisans, food vendors, community groups, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. The 2026 festival was scheduled for June 6.