Who will write the history of the revolution?
-John Adams Long before New Jersey was the Garden State, the colony of New Jersey was known as the "Cockpit of the Revolution" and the "Crossroads of the Revolution." New Jersey witnessed many events - both high points and low points - that were to prove critical to the cause of American independence. One of the low points in the history of the Continental Army was its long retreat across New Jersey following the loss of Manhattan. The future of the Revolution seemed much in doubt. Success at the Battles of Trenton and Princeton was critical to keep the flame of liberty alive. The Battle of Monmouth saw the end of significant British presence in New Jersey and was the final large battle in the Northern Colonies. Please consider joining us as we discuss the ideas, men and events which led to the founding of the American republic, the oldest constitutional democracy in the world.

George Washington, Commander in Chief of the Continental Army.


This painting depicts Washington as a colonel in the Virginia militia in 1772.


There is no shortage of “Washington slept here” houses in New Jersey.


Washington spent a great deal of time in New Jersey, using the Watching Mountains as shelter while observing British activities in Manhattan.