In May of 1776, anticipating independence, the Constitutional Convention sent out instructions that each state devise a new governmental structure. In response, New Jersey’s legislature broke new ground when it drafted a state constitution that not only gave the note to men who met certain property requirements, but also gave it to some women, African-American, and others. In 1807, however, the state’s legislature chose to restrict suffrage to white male citizens who paid taxes.

The Petticoat Politicians of 1776. NJ 350