1706
January 17 marks the birth of Benjamin Franklin in Boston. Franklin became the Revolution's most essential diplomat, securing the alliance with France that provided the naval power and funding necessary for American victory.
1775
In a significant precursor to the war, a pivotal meeting took place at Josiah Halstead’s tavern (now known as the Allen House) in Shrewsbury, New Jersey. Local citizens gathered to establish a Committee of Observation. These committees were essential in monitoring Loyalist activities and enforcing the “Continental Association,” which called for a boycott of British goods. The Allen House stands today in Monmouth County and is operated as a museum by the Monmouth County Historical Association.
1776
In New York’s Mohawk Valley, General Philip Schuyler led a force of nearly 3,000 men to disarm a gathering of Loyalists at Johnson Hall. The raid successfully neutralized a local threat, leading to the arrest of several prominent Loyalists and the confiscation of their weapons.
1781
Fought in the backcountry of South Carolina, the Battle of Cowpens was a major turning point in the war's Southern Campaign. Brigadier General Daniel Morgan utilized a unique “defense-in-depth” strategy, placing his militia in the front lines with orders to fire two volleys and then retreat. When the British mistook the planned militia withdrawal for a rout, they charged into a devastating volley from Continental regulars and a surprise pincer attack from cavalry led by William Washington. Within an hour, Britain’s elite force was decimated. The British suffered over 800 casualties and prisoners, while the Americans lost only about 12 men. This defeat stripped Lord Cornwallis of his light infantry and set him on the path toward his eventual surrender at Yorktown.
2026 Commemorations in New Jersey
There are several ways to engage with Revolutionary history in the region:
- Cowpens 245th Anniversary: While the battle occurred in South Carolina, the 245th Anniversary of the Battle of Cowpens is being celebrated today with wreath-laying ceremonies and military demonstrations honoring New Jersey native Daniel Morgan, who led the American victory.
- Morristown National Historical Park (Morristown): Visitors can tour the Jockey Hollow soldier huts to experience the conditions the army faced during the "Hard Winter" of 1780.
- Allen House Tours (Shrewsbury): You can visit the Monmouth County Historical Association to see the site of the 1775 Shrewsbury meeting.