Upcoming events.
NJSSAR Board of Managers Meeting and Luncheon
NJSSAR Luncheon at Princeton Marriott Hotel and Conference Center at Forrestal, 100 College Road East Princeton, NJ 08540 There will be a meeting of the Board of Managers at 9:00 AM. The BOM is reserved for the voting members, or guests of the NJSSAR Board of Managers including NJSSAR Chapter Presidents, Officers, or Committee Chairs.
The Reception and Luncheon are open to all members of any Lineage Organization, their families, and guests. The Reception will begin at 12:00 PM, and the meeting/luncheon will begin at 12:15 PM. For costs and meal choice, contact NJSSAR Secretary Paul Ossou 973-650-1985
East Jersey Olde Towne
Muster and History Day at East Jersey Old Town
Join us for an exhilarating all-day event where history comes alive! Marvel at the impressive encampment of the Color Guard of the New Jersey Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, showcasing their stunning marching and shooting skills. Experience the thrill as you meet fascinating Revolutionary and Civil War reenactors, cheer on vintage baseball players, and enjoy the lively tunes of our live music. Immerse yourself in the past with captivating demonstrations of historic gardening, stone carving, and a 19th-century print shop. Take a ride in a horse-drawn wagon, savor delicious offerings from food trucks, and let your creativity flow with fun children's crafts. Don't miss the excitement—arrive by 9 a.m. to ensure you're first in line for the 10 a.m. opening of the gates!
For more information, Click Here for the Middlesex County Culture website
East Jersey Olde Towne History Day
Muster and History Day at East Jersey Old Town
Join us for an exhilarating all-day event where history comes alive! Marvel at the impressive encampment of the Color Guard of the New Jersey Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, showcasing their stunning marching and shooting skills. Experience the thrill as you meet fascinating Revolutionary and Civil War reenactors, cheer on vintage baseball players, and enjoy the lively tunes of our live music. Immerse yourself in the past with captivating demonstrations of historic gardening, stone carving, and a 19th-century print shop. Take a ride in a horse-drawn wagon, savor delicious offerings from food trucks, and let your creativity flow with fun children's crafts. Don't miss the excitement—arrive by 9 a.m. to ensure you're first in line for the 10 a.m. opening of the gates!
For more information, Click Here for the Middlesex County Culture website
Princeton Memorial Day Parade by the Spirit of Princeton
Bringing your family to the Princeton, New Jersey Spirit of Princeton Memorial Day Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony is absolutely worth the time—it's a meaningful, low-key, and memorable way to connect with history, community, and gratitude in a beautiful, walkable setting. This annual event (usually held on the Saturday morning before Memorial Day is organized by the Spirit of Princeton, a local nonprofit dedicated to civic unity through events like this, Flag Day, and Veterans Day ceremonies.
A Short, Festive Parade with Heart
The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. (rain or shine) from the corner of Princeton Avenue and Nassau Street. It’s a relaxed one-mile march down historic Nassau Street to Monument Plaza (also called Princeton Monument Hall or near the Princeton Battle Monument). Expect a vibrant mix of participants:
- Local veterans and active military members marching proudly.
- Community groups like the Princeton Police, Fire Department, First Aid & Rescue Squad, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Little League, historical reenactment units (e.g., Revolutionary War regiments), marching bands, drum & bugle corps, and more.
Kids get free miniature American flags from organizers so the whole family can wave them and cheer as the procession passes. It’s energetic and colorful but not overwhelming—think small-town charm in one of America’s most historic towns.
The Solemn Wreath-Laying Ceremony
At about 11 a.m., everyone gathers at Monument Plaza for a brief, respectful closing ceremony (the whole event wraps by noon). This includes wreath-laying by the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution to honor fallen service members, moments of silence, and traditional tributes such as Taps. The Princeton Battle Monument itself ties directly to the Revolutionary War’s Battle of Princeton (1777)—a pivotal American victory—so the setting adds real historical weight. It’s a tangible way to show kids what “service and sacrifice” actually mean, beyond textbooks or screens.
Why It’s Especially Worth It for Families
Educational without being preachy: Children see real veterans up close, learn local and national history, and absorb lessons in patriotism, respect, and gratitude. Many families in the area (including those near Princeton) call it a perfect “teachable moment” tradition.
Fun and engaging for all ages: Parades are inherently exciting for kids—bands, flags, uniforms, and community pride make it feel celebratory rather than somber. It’s often paired with Princeton University’s afternoon P-rade (alumni parade), turning it into a full day of hometown energy if you want.
Easy and free: No tickets, no hassle, short commitment (under 2 hours total). Central location means easy parking nearby or arriving by bike/walk. It’s genuinely family-friendly—encouraged for “young and old and in between.”
Community connection: In a fast-paced world, this brings neighbors together on Nassau Street’s tree-lined beauty. You’ll feel part of something bigger—honoring Princeton’s own heroes while supporting a local nonprofit that keeps these traditions alive.
It’s not just another parade; it’s a heartfelt reminder of why Memorial Day exists, wrapped in a positive, accessible experience your family will remember (and likely want to repeat). If you’re in the Central NJ area, it’s an easy, rewarding outing that turns a regular weekend into something meaningful. Pack some water, sunscreen, and maybe a blanket for the ceremony—your kids will thank you later!
Battle of Springfield Commemorative Wreath Laying
Battle of Springfield by John Ward Dunsmore (1908)
Battle of Monmouth Reenactment and SAR Commemorative Wreath Laying
Monmouth Battlefield will commemorate the Battle of Monmouth. This event features reenactments, soldier camps, talks, and historical presentations in the camps and the Visitor Center. There will also be children’s infantry and cannon drills.
The NJSSAR Color Guard will have a Commemorative Wreath Laying Ceremony. For more information, visit the Friends of Monmouth Battlefield at this link. Contact: Ed Glidden 917-658-9938 eglidden@yahoo.com
AmericaSAR 250 National Event
Bringing your whole family to Philadelphia for the Philadelphia Continental Chapter of the Pennsylvania Society, Sons of the American Revolution (PCCSAR) events is one of the most meaningful, exciting, and educational ways to commemorate our nation’s founding—especially right now in 2026, during the once-in-a-lifetime 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence!
Philadelphia isn’t just any city for this—it’s literally America’s Birthplace. This is where the Continental Congress met, where the Declaration was signed on July 4, 1776, and where the ideals of liberty took root at Independence Hall. The PCCSAR, as the local chapter right in the heart of it all, is proud to host and participate in major national Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) celebrations that bring history to life in a way textbooks never can.
The Big 250th Anniversary Celebration (July 2–6, 2026)
PCCSAR is at the center of the SAR’s signature national event: the SAR Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Expect a packed schedule of patriotic activities that are perfect for families:
- Public readings of the Declaration of Independence.
- The Salute to Independence Parade and other SAR public events.
- Wreath-layings, grave markings for signers of the Declaration, and historical ceremonies.
- Special tours, bench dedications, and evening gatherings that tie directly back to the Revolutionary era.
Many of these are open to the public (not just SAR members), so you and your kids can join in waving flags, cheering parades, and standing in the very places where the Founding Fathers shaped our country. It’s solemn enough to feel important, but festive enough to keep everyone engaged—think marching bands, color guards, and living history that makes the Revolution feel real and relevant.
Why This Is Worth the Trip for the Whole Family
- Hands-on history that sticks with kids: Your children will walk the same streets as Washington, Jefferson, and Franklin. They’ll see reenactments, hear the words of the Declaration read aloud, and participate in ceremonies that teach patriotism, courage, and civic pride without feeling like a lecture. It’s the kind of experience families remember and talk about for years.
- Perfect mix of education and fun: Pair the SAR events with Philadelphia’s massive Wawa Welcome America festival (running late June through July 4), which includes free concerts, fireworks, block parties, games, and extended hours at attractions like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the National Constitution Center. The whole Historic District turns into a red-white-and-blue playground.
- Easy and family-friendly logistics: From Ewing, NJ, it’s a quick 45–60 minute drive or train ride. Stay downtown near the Marriott (official SAR hotel) or make it a day trip. Events are centered around walkable, historic areas with plenty of kid-friendly spots—food trucks, parks, and interactive museums nearby.
- A shared family tradition: In a world full of screens and distractions, this is a chance to stand together as a family, honor the sacrifices that gave us our freedoms, and create lasting memories during a milestone anniversary that won’t happen again in our lifetimes.
The PCCSAR’s mission is to preserve and celebrate this exact heritage, and they do it with heart in the city where it all began. Whether you catch the SAR parade, a Declaration reading, or just soak in the atmosphere at Independence Hall, you’ll leave feeling more connected to America’s story—and proud to pass that connection on to your kids.
For full details, schedules, and how to get involved, check out the official site: https://www.pccsar.org/. Plan ahead—the 250th is already generating huge excitement across Philly, and these events will sell out or get crowded fast. It’s more than a trip; it’s a meaningful way to celebrate the birth of our nation together as a family. You won’t regret it!
“Let Freedom Ring” Independence Day in Perth Amboy
Join the Color Guard of the New Jersey Society, Sons of the American Revolution at City Hall Circle for the Annual Liberty Bell Ringing and Wreath Laying Commemorations at City Hall Circle. Speeches and colonial music from New Jersey Fife & Drum Corps.
Color Guard Muster: 11:30 at Liberty Bell Park, Market Square, City Hall, 260 High St.,
Reading of the Declaration
On July 8, 1776, in the heart of Trenton, New Jersey, one of the very first public readings of the Declaration of Independence echoed through the streets—marking a thrilling, history-shaping moment just four days after its adoption in Philadelphia. A dusty post rider had raced from the Continental Congress carrying freshly printed copies of this revolutionary document. That warm summer afternoon, townspeople, soldiers, members of the Provincial Congress, and local leaders gathered on the steps of the Hunterdon County Courthouse on Warren Street (today’s 23 South Warren Street). As the words were read aloud—“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal…”—the crowd fell silent, then erupted in cheers. Church bells may have rung out in celebration. It was one of only three simultaneous first public readings outside the halls of Congress (alongside Philadelphia and Easton, Pennsylvania), and Trenton’s reading helped ignite the fire of independence right here in New Jersey, the “Crossroads of the American Revolution.”
This wasn’t some distant Philadelphia event—it was local history happening in real time. Ordinary citizens heard for the first time that the colonies were no longer subjects of the British crown but a free and independent nation. The reading galvanized support for the fight ahead, setting the stage for the pivotal Battles of Trenton and Princeton later that year. Standing on those same steps today, you can almost feel the electric charge of that day—the birth of American ideals of liberty, equality, and self-government unfolding right where you stand.
Bringing your whole family to Trenton’s annual commemoration of this event—especially the landmark 250th anniversary on July 8, 2026, as part of Trenton Heritage Week—is one of the most entertaining, educational, and meaningful ways to connect with America’s founding right in your own backyard. Organized by the City of Trenton and the Trenton Kiwanis Club (with support from RevolutionNJ and America250), this free, family-friendly gathering happens at the exact historic site: noon on July 8 at 23 South Warren Street. You’ll join fellow citizens for a powerful public reenactment and reading of the Declaration, where community members take turns delivering sections aloud—just like in 1776—followed by History Fest250 on Warren Street (with patriotic displays, activities, and exhibits), a guided walking tour of historic downtown Trenton at 3 p.m., and an evening international proclamation at 6 p.m.
Why It’s Pure Family Fun and Real Learning Rolled Into One
Entertaining for every age: The whole week (July 4–8) turns Trenton into a patriotic playground with a Cultural Heritage Parade, multicultural festival at Mill Hill Park, concerts (including the Blawenburg Band’s colonial performance), fireworks, living-history elements, and interactive History Fest activities. Kids can wave flags, cheer during the reading, explore the “Winds of Change” mural that vividly depicts the 1776 crowd, and soak in the energy of a real community celebration—far more exciting than any textbook or screen.
Deeply educational and inspiring: Your children will stand on the very ground where one of America’s first public proclamations of freedom took place. They’ll hear the actual words of the Declaration, learn how New Jersey played a starring role in the Revolution, and see history come alive through reenactment and tours. It’s a hands-on lesson in courage, civic pride, and the values that built our nation—perfect for sparking family conversations about liberty, equality, and why those ideas still matter today.
Easy, local, and unforgettable: No tickets, no hassle—just show up and be part of something bigger. In this milestone 250th year, the energy will be electric, creating memories your family will cherish and repeat for years.
Join your fellow citizens to commemorate this momentous event of world history! Whether you’re there for the noon reading, the full day’s festivities, or the entire Heritage Week, you’ll leave prouder than ever to be American—and even prouder to call this area home. Mark your calendar for July 8, 2026 (and the lead-up days), and make it a family tradition that honors the past while celebrating the future. Trenton’s story is our story—let’s celebrate it together!
National Society, Sons of the American Revolution 136th Congress
136th Congress for the National Society, Sons of the American Revolution. Greensboro, NC
Members only.
March to Yorktown Day
This event celebrates the anniversary of the day Continental and French troops marched through Westfield, NJ, on Aug. 29, 1781, on their way to Yorktown, Va., where they would fight, lay siege to and force the surrender of Cornwallis. Thousands of troops led by Gens. Washington and Rochambeau crossed New Jersey on their way to Yorktown that August, and several columns passed through Westfield including the 1st Rhode Island, with many African American soldiers.
This event’s chief sponsor is Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route-NJ, but the NJSSAR and West Fields Chapter and Westfield DAR all play important supporting roles. In some years there has been a parade at midday, in others an all day encampment in Mindowaskin Park.
For more information, contact: Jay Hershey
The Battle of Brooklyn Commemoration
Join the Sons of the American Revolution for the commemorative events on the Battle of Brooklyn.
The Battle of Long Island, also known as the Battle of Brooklyn and the Battle of Brooklyn Heights, was an action of the American Revolutionary War fought on August 26, 1776, at the western edge of Long Island in present-day Brooklyn, New York. The British defeated the Americans and gained access to the strategically important Port of New York, which they held for the rest of the war. It was the first major battle to take place after the United States declared its independence on July 4, and in troop deployment and combat, it was the largest battle of the war.
After defeating the British in the siege of Boston on March 17, commander-in-chief George Washington relocated the Continental Army to defend the port city of New York, located at the southern end of Manhattan Island. Washington understood that the city's harbor would provide an excellent base for the Royal Navy, so he established defenses there and waited for the British to attack. In July, the British, under the command of General William Howe, landed a few miles across the harbor on the sparsely populated Staten Island, where they were reinforced by a fleet of ships in Lower New York Bay over the next month and a half, bringing their total force to 32,000 troops. Washington knew the difficulty in holding the city with the British fleet in control of the entrance to the harbor at the Narrows and accordingly moved the bulk of his forces to Manhattan, believing that it would be the first target.
On August 21, the British landed on the shores of Gravesend Bay in southwest Kings County, across the Narrows from Staten Island and more than a dozen miles south of the established East River crossings to Manhattan. After five days of waiting, the British attacked the American defenses on the Guan Heights. Unknown to the Americans, however, Howe had brought his main army around their rear and attacked their flank soon after. The Americans panicked, resulting in twenty percent losses through casualties and capture, although a stand by 400 Maryland and Delaware troops prevented greater losses. The remainder of the army retreated to the main defenses on Brooklyn Heights. The British dug in for a siege, but on the night of August 29–30, Washington evacuated the entire army to Manhattan without the loss of supplies or a single life. The Continental Army was driven out of Manhattan entirely after several more defeats and was forced to retreat through New Jersey to Pennsylvania.
Battle of Navesink Commemoration
In December 1776, Monmouth County’s militia largely laid down their arms during Loyalist insurrections, with hundreds signing British loyalty oaths. When Pennsylvania troops crushed the uprising in January 1777, most Monmouth militiamen stayed home.
Late that month, Dr. Nathaniel Scudder reassembled the 1st Regiment. The Pennsylvania Post reported that many who had received British protections were now determined to return them “in [gun] cartridges.”
In early February, roughly 140 militiamen marched to the Navesink Highlands and camped near the Hartshorne family homes. They built a beacon to warn the Shrewsbury militia of any British approach.
On February 13, 1777, a British force of 170–200 men from the 26th Regiment under Major Gordon launched a surprise attack after landing from Sandy Hook. British officer Thomas Sullivan described how they overran the picket and routed the militia. The British captured 72–74 men (including officers), seized powder, cartridges, and provisions, and suffered only one killed. Many prisoners carried recent certificates of allegiance to the Crown.
American accounts survive mainly in postwar pension applications. Henry Vunck recalled being drafted, surprised at the Highlands, captured, and enduring a year of harsh imprisonment on ships and in New York’s Sugar House. Others told of narrow escapes and comrades killed beside them.
The Battle of the Navesink was the worst defeat of the war for the Monmouth militia and temporarily set back efforts to restore local defense and civil government. (198 words)
Battle of Couch's Bridge Commemoration
On September 3, 1777, at Cooch's Bridge, the first battle of the Philadelphia Campaign and the only battle fought on Delaware soil during the Revolutionary War. At least two-dozen Continental soldiers were killed during that battle and are believed to be buried in forgotten, unmarked graves somewhere on the battlefield.
The Delaware Societies of the Sons and the Daughters of the American Revolution requests your presence to honor and remember the soldiers who fell at the Battle of Cooch’s Bridge. Also participating will be the Pencader Heritage Area Association, Friends of Cooch's Bridge Historic Site, Delaware Division of Historic and Cultural Affairs, 1st Delaware Regiment, and member of the Friends of the Washington Rochambeau Trail.
Color Guard Muster: Compatriots wearing continental uniforms would be greatly appreciated. Please register at the following link: Battle of Cooch's Bridge Memorial Service. Memorial service honoring the fallen Continental & militia soldiers who bravely fought in the only American Revolutionary War battle in Delaware. Contact: Peter Moller, Cooch’s Bridge Battlefield DESSAR Coordinator and NJSSAR Trustee, hobokenpete@gmail.com
Young Patriot' Day at Princeton Battlefield
A Family Day of Fun and American History!
2024 Young Patriot’s Day Featured…
Free Gifts for all Registered Families
Demonstrations & Drilling with the New Jersey Grays
Talk with George Washington and Ben Franklin
Artillery and Musket firing
Information by Area Historical Organizations and Sites
Living Historian Demonstrations
Tours of the Thomas Clarke House & Museum
Updates at PBS1777.org
Registration for Young Patriots Day, TK
In 2024, PBS Young Patriot’s Day was partly sponsored by NJM Insurance Group and with funds from the Mercer County Division of Culture, Tourism, and Heritage, a New Jersey Historical Commission partner.
Battle of Chestnut Neck Memorial Service
Commemoration and memorial service for the 1778 Battle of Chestnut Neck. For more information about the battle, click here. This annual National SAR Color Guard event is hosted by the Somers Chapter. All are welcome.
Battle of Red Bank Commemoration
Join in the commemoration of the 1777 assault on Fort Mercer of the grounds surrounding the original fort in Red Bank Battle Field Park, National Park, NJ. The anniversary of this important Philadelphia Campaign attack should be an especially interesting and action-filled event. At this event, guests can tour the Whitall House. Constructed in 1748 for James and Ann Whitall, this house was designed in the Georgian style and became the centerpiece of their 400-acre plantation on the banks of the Delaware River. During the American Revolution, the house was adjacent to Fort Mercer, the site of a colonists’ victory over the Hessians. Following the battle, the house was used as a hospital. Acquired by the county in 1904, the house and grounds are interpreted as Red Bank Battlefield Park and are open to the public on a daily basis for recreation.
Click here for more information about the Battle of Red Bank and the Whitall House.
NATIONAL COLOR GUARD EVENT:
The Memorial service for the 14 Continental Soldiers killed as a result of the Battle of Red bank will start at 1 PM and include the following highlights:
Special Memorial Service for the 14 Rhode Island soldiers for the 1st and 2nd Rhode Island Regiment. We hope to include a representative from the 1st or 2nd RI Regiment and the Hessian Unit.
Jen Janofsky, Curator/Director of Red Bank Battlefield, is scheduled to speak
Honored during the ceremony will be recognition of the Hessian Soldiers who gave their lives that day. A speaker will overview the recent archaeological dig at the North end of the park, unveiling bone fragments from over 17 Hessians. Specific identification of the fragments is still being conducted. This is the largest find of Hessian soldier remains from the Revolutionary War.
Legacy Marker/Heritage Flag Ceremony is planned to be conducted after the Memorial Service
NJSSAR Board Meeting and George Washington Luncheon
NJSSAR George Washington Luncheon at Princeton Marriott Hotel and Conference Center at Forrestal, 100 College Road East Princeton, NJ 08540
Fort Lee Monument Wreath Laying
Fort Lee, originally Fort Constitution, was an American Revolutionary War fort located on the crest of the Hudson Palisades in what was then Hackensack Township, New Jersey, opposite Fort Washington at the northern end of Manhattan Island.
Color Guard:This is a state-level event.
SAR250 Washington Crossing and the Ten Crucial Days
For every member of an American lineage organization—SAR, DAR, CAR, or any group dedicated to preserving our Revolutionary heritage—this is the ultimate bucket-list experience: the Washington Crossing at 250 Commemorations and Reenactment in the Ten Crucial Days Historic Area, December 11–13, 2026. Organized by the New Jersey and Pennsylvania Societies of the Sons of the American Revolution, it places you and your family right where George Washington’s daring Christmas-night crossing of the Delaware launched the victories that saved the Revolution and gave birth to our nation.
Imagine standing on the very riverbank where Washington led 2,400 troops through ice-choked waters on December 25, 1776, then marching with compatriots to the Trenton Battle Monument, Old Barracks Museum, Mill Hill Park, the site of the Battle of Assunpink Creek, Princeton Battlefield, and the graves of Declaration signers John Witherspoon and Richard Stockton. You’ll walk the same ground as your patriot ancestors, share their exploits with children, grandchildren, friends, and fellow members, and feel the electric pride of living history during America’s 250th anniversary buildup.
A Perfect Blend of Solemn Honor, Fellowship, and Holiday Joy
- Friday, Dec. 11: Start with an abridged “Ten Crucial Days 101” bus tour ($150, tax-deductible, benefits the historic sites). Enjoy free time for shopping or revisiting sites, then a welcome reception at Washington Landing Museum featuring Unionville Vineyards’ “Washington Series” wines—Revolutionary Red, Victory White, Battlefield Blush.
- Saturday, Dec. 12: Morning wreath-layings at Princeton Battlefield (8 a.m.), Richard Stockton’s grave (10 a.m.), and John Witherspoon’s (noon). Afternoon bus tours or a public reading of The American Crisis. Cap the day with a festive buffet banquet, guest speaker, and live music at Cooper’s Riverview in Trenton’s historic Ferry District.
- Sunday, Dec. 13: Choose the Washington Crossing Historic Park (PA) “First Crossing” reenactment with wreath-laying or the Washington Crossing State Park (NJ) “Washington’s Landing”—or walk the bridge and do both. It’s Christmastime magic: colonial charm at the Nassau Inn, great food, holiday shopping, and the spirit of victory that changed the world.
This isn’t just an event—it’s fellowship with compatriots, hands-on education for the whole family, fine food and toasts, and memories that will last generations. From Ewing, it’s an easy drive or train ride away. Mark your calendar now and register through your state SAR society or njssar.org. This is the one you’ll tell your descendants about—the moment you stood where Washington’s vision for victory made history. Join your fellow citizens and compatriots. You belong here!
“First Crossing” Reenactment of Washington Crossing the Delaware
Witness the Crossing That Saved the Revolution
Each December, thousands of people gather on the banks of the Delaware River to watch the reenactment of George Washington’s daring 1776 Christmas night river crossing. During the event, several hundred reenactors in Continental military dress listen to an inspiring speech by General Washington and then row across the river in replica Durham boats.
In addition to the crossing reenactment, special colonial-era activities and demonstrations in the Historic Village will offer a full day of family fun and learning.
TIME: 11 AM to 3 PM (actual crossing at 1 PM)
COST: $9 for adults, $5 for children ages 5-11, free for children younger than 5. Family rate (2 adults and 2 children) is $25.
Reserve your tickets https://www.washingtoncrossingpark.org/cross-with-us/