These names were given due to the turbulent channel of the inlet, which is characterized by strong currents and choppy waters.

[22][23][24][25][26] An alternative theory suggests that "Barndegat" is a Dutch term meaning "a pool created from a dike breach"[27][28] Long before European settlers arrived, the Lenape Native Americans inhabited the region, including the area now known as Barnegat.

The Lenape would spend their summers along the shore, collecting and roasting clams for sustenance during the winter months.

European settlers, primarily Dutch, English, and Swedes, began to arrive in the Barnegat area around 1720.

These settlers were attracted to the region's fertile land, abundant natural resources, and proximity to the coastline.

The first permanent homes in Barnegat were constructed around 1750, as the settlers established farms, fisheries, and other small businesses.

[22] Barnegat played a role in the American Revolutionary War, as one of the last skirmishes of the conflict took place near the site of the Cedar Bridge Tavern in 1782.

Known as the "Battle of Cedar Bridge," this encounter involved Patriot forces clashing with Loyalist troops and local Pine Robbers, who took advantage of the war's chaos to engage in banditry.

The Patriots eventually emerged victorious, marking a symbolic end to the Revolutionary War in New Jersey.

[61] In December 2015, the Township Committee selected former mayor Alfonso Cirulli from a list of three candidates nominated by the Republican municipal committee to fill Lisella's vacant seat expiring in December 2017; Cirulli will serve on an interim basis until the November 2016 general election, when voters will select a candidate to serve the balance of the term of office.

[64][65][66] For the 119th United States Congress, New Jersey's 2nd congressional district is represented by Jeff Van Drew (R, Dennis Township).

[75][76][77] Constitutional officers elected on a countywide basis are: Clerk Scott M. Colabella (R, 2025, Barnegat Light),[78][79] Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy (R, 2025; Toms River)[80][81] and Surrogate Jeffrey Moran (R, 2028, Beachwood).

[85] Among the township's 2010 Census population, 69.8% (vs. 63.2% in Ocean County) were registered to vote, including 88.2% of those ages 18 and over (vs. 82.6% countywide).

In 2019 St. Mary took entire control of the school, which remained on the same Manahawkin campus, and changed its name.

County Route 554 traverses most of the township from west-to-east and connects with the other major roads except CR 539.

[115] The Asbury Park Press provides daily news coverage of the town as does WOBM-FM radio.

The government of the town provides columns and commentary to The Southern Ocean Times, which is one of seven weekly papers from Micromedia Publications.

[116] Phoenix, the first steamboat to sail the open ocean, traveling from New York to Philadelphia in June 1809, made harbor at Barnegat to wait out a storm that occurred during its voyage.

[citation needed] People who were born in, residents of, or otherwise closely associated with Barnegat Township include: