Summit was a cozy farming community populated by about 300 people until 1837.  After the Civil War, Summit became a summer resort area because of its crisp, clean mountain air and convenient proximity to New York City.  Summit attracted extremely wealthy people who built extensive summer estates.  The landscape has had a definite influence in the development of Summit.  This tree-dense suburban community is nestled in the hills of the Watchung Reservation with six square miles of broken hills at a 450 foot elevation.  Summit is a family oriented residential community with light industry.  Residents enjoy Summit's Mid-Town Direct train -a less than 30 minute ride - from Summit to Penn Station as well as its Downtown shopping which offers an abundance of specialty and gift shops, clothing stores, home furnishings, and restaurants.