The Great Falls of Paterson rise 77 feet on the Passaic River. One of the United States' largest waterfalls, it played a significant role in the industrial development of New Jersey starting in the earliest days of the nation. It was formed at the end of the last ice age approximately 13,000 years ago when the river found a new route around the north end of the Watchung Mountains, carving spectacular falls through the underlying basalt. In 1778, Alexander Hamilton visited the falls and was impressed by its potential for industry; later as Secretary of Treasury, he selected the site as the nation's first planned industrial city. In 1792, Paterson was established centered around the Great Falls. From humble mills rose industries that changed the face of the United States.
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