Park Ridge portrays the uncommon history of a North Jersey town that is known far beyond its borders for the part it played in early finances. One of the early settlers invented the wampum machine, a device that polished shells that were used as currency. Park Ridge was also known for its self-sufficient artesian well water system. And around 1870, it had the premier amusement center in Bergen County: Island Park. Over the years Park Ridge has had its share of well-known residents, including Pres. Richard M. Nixon.