While out caching in Gloucester Township one day, I started to wonder how the town of Blackwood got it’s name. The first thing that came to mind was a blackwood tree. The only thing was, I’ve never seen or heard of a Blackwood tree in New Jersey. Even though I wasn’t really sure what I was looking for, I began searching the woods for one anyway.
I ended up in a patch of woods right down and across the street from a place I worked at over 20 years ago. I used to see the kids going back there, and often wondered what the woods were like. Back then, I was just too lazy to go find out. After not having much luck with my search, I decided to try a new one (Google).
As it turns out, Blackwood was originally called Blackwoodtown, settled around 1750, by John Blackwood. Then I found out blackwood is used to make clarinets, oboes, and other woodwind instruments. It seems it is much better known as the “African Blackwood.” The name seems to be a good indication of why my quest wasn’t going very well.
I’m sure there are plenty of people around here that would have loved to have played with a Blackwood: how disappointing this must be. However, right in front of me stands the mighty oak, and I have a cache in my pocket. I might as well just leave it here for you.
Do not attempt access to these woods via Little Gloucester rd. The east side of the woods is all private property. You must enter from the west or south west
Climbing can be dangerous. Never climb alone. Use extreme Caution while searching for this hide.