Trail Sites

Liberty Trail Historic Sites

Discover the myriad of sites across The Liberty Trail where significant cultural and Revolutionary history unfolded. From military ruins to meticulously restored mansions, immerse yourself in the footsteps of our nation’s history-makers.

States of Interest:
New Jersey
Historic Site
South Bound Brook, NJ
New Jersey
Historic Site
Morristown, NJ

The Arnold Tavern, constructed in the mid-18th century, served as Washington's headquarters from January - May 1777

New Jersey
Historic Site | Historic House
Princeton, NJ

A hidden gem in the borough of Princeton, the Bainbridge House was constructed in the mid-1760s and stands as a hallmark of colonial architecture...

New Jersey
Historic Site
Elizabeth, NJ
New Jersey
Historic Site
New Brunswick, NJ
New Jersey
Historic Site
Union, NJ

The Caldwell Parsonage is a site of tragedy outside of the battlefield of Connecticut Farms & Springfield. The events that transpired that day still...

New Jersey
Historic Site
Elizabeth, NJ
New Jersey
Historic Site
Springfield, NJ
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States of Interest

Liberty Trail History Makers

The Revolutionary War was a war unlike any other — one of ideas and ideals, that shaped “the course of human events. Explore the history and personalities from this pivotal time in American history.
Biography

While serving as a drummer in the Revolutionary War, young Stephen Tainter witnessed Burgoyne’s surrender and the failed Newport siege.

Biography

More than a signer of the Declaration of Independence, the Reverend John Witherspoon helped shape the Revolution through his preaching, political philosophy, and mentorship of future leaders like James Madison.

Biography

A former Revolutionary War captain, he led Shays' Rebellion in protest of economic hardships and oppressive taxation, which ultimately exposed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and influenced the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

Biography

Carl von Donop, a Hessian colonel, sought glory in the American Revolution but blundered at Trenton—possibly distracted by a "beautiful widow." To redeem himself, he led a doomed assault on Fort Mercer in 1777, suffering fatal wounds. Arrogant and unpopular, his American dream ended in defeat by the Delaware River.

We invite you to visit the preserved locations along the Liberty Trail and to immerse yourself in the extraordinary events that determined the fate of a nation.
State/County Park | Historic House
Franklin Township, NJ

In the final days of the Revolutionary War, Rockingham became General George Washington’s last wartime headquarters, where he penned his Farewell Orders to the Armies of the United States. As he prepared to step away from military command, news arrived that the Treaty of Paris had been signed, securing America’s independence.

Historic Site |
Springfield, NJ
Marker located on the Rahway River Bridge in honor of Col. Israel Angell. Historical Marker Database At this location, the American army first encountered the British and Hessian army advancing from...
Historic Site |
Elizabeth, NJ
Boxwood Hall Wikimedia Commons/Dmadeo Boxwood Hall is a two-story, wood-frame building in the Georgian style. Built in the 1750’s, Boxwood Hall served as the residence of the Woodruff, Boudinot...
Historic Site | Historic House
Plainfield, NJ

Located in northern New Jersey, the Nathaniel Drake house offers a unique glimpse into life during the American Revolution. Once housing George Washington and his officers in 1777, it proves itself a vital landmark in the state.

Historic Site | Gardens & Grounds
Morristown, NJ

Now a quiet park in the center of urban Morristown, this green once served as the training and parade grounds of the Continental Army during its 1777 winter encampment.

Battlefield | State/County Park
Alpine, NJ

Along the banks of the Hudson, one can walk in the steps of Cornwallis' army, which landed at this spot to chase the Continental Army through New Jersey.

Historic Site |
Lebanon, NJ
Colonel John Taylor , an Englishman by birth, served in the Revolution with the 4th Hunterdon Militia and eventually rose to general. This mill played an important role in the Revolution as a grain...
Historic Site |
Scotch Plains, NJ
Site of the Battle of Short Hills, June 25, 1777. Historical Marker Database The Battle of Short Hills, fought on June 26, 1777, was a significant engagement in central New Jersey. In this battle...
Battlefield |
Freehold, NJ

A 94-foot monument now marks the spot that where the Battle of Monmouth commenced on June 28, 1778. A series of bronze plaques line the monument that depict famous scenes from the engagement.

Historic Site |
Elizabeth, NJ
First Presbyterian Church, Burial Grounds and Elizabethtown Academy Historical Marker Database The First Presbyterian Church, established on the site of the original meetinghouse around 1664, was one...
Historic Site | Fort/Outpost
Trenton, NJ

The Old Barracks Museum is located in Trenton, New Jersey and stands as one of the last military structures dating back the French & Indian War and the American Revolution.

Battlefield | State/County Park
Trenton, NJ

Also known as the Battle of Assunpink Creek, Washington thwarted Cornwallis yet again, just south of the town of Trenton where they had fought only days prior.