It was 247 years ago this week, today, in fact, that General George Washington led his troops to successfully prevent the British marching from Philadelphia to Sandy Hook. It was the Battle of Monmouth and marks the longest one day battle in the Revolutionary War.
It took place in what is now Manalapan and Freehold, and marked the first time the Continental Army fought after intensive training at Valley Forge. In actuality, the battle ended in a draw, but it let the British know they were up against a formidable military force, making it a true turning point in the war for Independence.
All these facts, along with the story about how British General Clinton and his men commandeered the Covenhoven House in Freehold after learning Washington was on his way, taking possession of the house for the 36 hours before the battle started, are included in the terrific Monmouth County Revolutionary War History book put out by the Monmouth 250 Committee and available at no cost to anybody who requests it.
The Board of Commissioners formed the Monmouth NJ 250 Committee with an eye towards celebrating what was really Monmouth County’s significant role in the War. The book, 40 pages long, is specific to Monmouth County’s role and is divided into the people, places, events and a great timeline that shows the entire period from when the Stamp Act was enacted in March, 1765 until the Treaty of Paris was signed by the new nation and Great Britain on September 3, 1783.
Included are some great stories on Joshua Huddy, Moly Pitcher, of course, Philip Freneau, the poet of the Revolution raised and now buried in Matawan, Nathaniel Scudder, a Freehold native buried in Old Tennent Cemetery and so many more.
At the end of the book, probably meant for children but a great test for everyone, are a group of activities that ask questions, invite a poem, have word games and a crossword puzzle.
For all those who want a copy, check out the Monmouth 250 page, or contact Director Ted Maturo at Ted.Maturo@co.monmouth.nj.us
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