The Battle of Trenton

The day was cold and the rain froze us to the bone. On December 29, 2012, a couple hundred of reenactors and spectators gathered to remember and celebrate the Continental Army's victory over the Hessians and to mourn the passing of a long time Brigade of the American Revolution officer, Wayne Daniels. Regiments gathered from New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania to march through the modern day streets of Trenton. In one of the most interesting and integrating reenactments this blogger has seen, the troops in their 18th century clothing marched next to eager, modern-day spectators. The camp followers were impromptu security, walking the anachronistic line marked by the sidewalk and keeping the modern folk safe from musket fire.

The 5th New York was fortuinate enough to fall in with the kind gents of the 14th Mass Continentals, or more commonly called, the Marbleheaders. The troops marched forward to teach the Tories and Hessians a lesson!

The battle culminated on the park green where the 5th NY and 14th MA took the high grounds over the bridge. The troops successfully won the first battle, but the celebration was short lived. Once reformed in three blocks, the announcer said his condolences for the loss of the BAR founder, Wayne Daniels. Heartfelt and hurting, the troops fired off three volleys in respect. The troops marched back to the barracks for a break and lunch.

Credit: The History Girl

The second battle was just as successful as the first, if not a bit more soggy. The snow had turned to rain, and the perma-cloud above provided a perfect backdrop for the battle. The Continentals successfully defended the field and bridge against the oppressors. These two battles were a huge morale booster for the rebel cause and gave reason for majority of Washington's troops to reenlist.

It was a memorable time for all civilians and troops and continues to be a wonderful tradition.  We thank the tireless work of the BAR association and the memory of Wayne Daniels for giving us this amazing opportunity to relive such a poignant piece of history.

NEW BOOK from New Jersey's very own Todd Braisted!

Todd Braisted of the 4th Battalion New Jersey Volunteers has just launched his new book! This looks great! I will be ordering my copy shortly.  Also was a pleasuring blasting away at his troops at Fort Lee on Nov. 17th!  HUZZAH!

Bergen County saw much of the American Revolution from its own doorstep. Close to British-occupied New York City, this corner of New Jersey was divided by the Revolution. Some people were staunch Loyalists or Patriots, in disagreement with their families and neighbors; others wavered or remained neutral; while still others changed their minds as was expedient. In the end, the years of hostilities led to massive damage and upheaval within the community as men either left home or stayed nearby to fight for or against secession from Great Britain. After the war, their pension applications allow glimpses into their experiences. Compiled and edited by local historian and Revolutionary War expert Todd W. Braisted, these are the stories of the Revolutionary soldiers of Bergen County.


http://www.amazon.com/Bergen-County-Voices-American-Revolution/dp/1609498364/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353345303&sr=8-1&keywords=todd+w+braisted

Sleepy Hollow, NY

Around this time of year, when Jack-o-lanterns glow, candy flows freely and costumes are of the most atrocious, a strange attitude towards superstition arises. Even the staunchest of skeptics look over their shoulders in the dark, and watch for witches across the full moon. Autumn, and October in particular, sends chills up all mortals’ spines. Maybe it’s the brisk air, maybe it’s the crunchy leaves, or possibly, it’s the ghouls of yesteryear.

            One such destination familiar to the occupants of the Hudson Valley is the village of Sleepy Hollow. Founded in 1645, the village of Sleepy Hollow (in Terrytown) has been immortalized in the short story by Washington Irving. It tells of a finicky schoolteacher, Ichabod Crane, on his ill-fated attempts to win the love of Katrina Van Tassel. The town, as peaceful as it is, comes a sneaking sense of the supernatural. After a series of events, Ichabod wonders through the dark past a haunted tree, and stumbles upon a headless specter. The rest is history, so they say, and every Halloween the village puts on a myriad of shows, stories and events in honor of old Ichabod.

            A trip to the Old Dutch Church will open your eyes to centuries of history. The church and surrounding cemetery were formally opened in 1849 and continue to house worshipers and the deceased. The cemetery is 85 acres and has over 40,000 in-ground graves. Irving is one of those laid eternally to rest here, as well as Andrew Carnegie, Walter Chrysler and Vincent Astor amongst others.

            Photos are to follow soon, but for now, dear followers, if you hear a sound behind you or feel a stare from beyond, walk quickly towards friends and family; you never know what could be sneaking up to scare you!

~Reinette

Events for Halloween and before detailed here!

Read the whole original story by Washington Irving here!

"The Fort" Book Review

Good day!  

Aside from the usual 18^th century news we would like to expand the blog to cover a broad range of topics. One of those topics is a good old book review! Now do keep in mind I am average Joe history buff and not a scholarly critic…but I will do my best to explore this book and present my findings.

"The Fort" by Bernard Cornwell

Today’s blog entry is a book review of “The Fort,” (2010) a fascinating and forgotten subject brought back to life by renown historical fiction author Bernard Cornwell.   

This novel stood out for me for a multitude of reasons.   After having read the Richard Sharpe series I was expecting a hero, a villain, and a triumphant victory…not that there is anything wrong with that normal story plot!  This book took a road less traveled.  Never before had I even heard about the Penobscot expedition and I considered myself well versed in the Revolutionary war.  This little known invasion caused much stir in the relatively quiet northern theater in 1779 and caused a massive counter thrust by the Americans, the like of which had never been seen before.  Have you ever heard of New Ireland?

Bernard Cornwell’s excellent character development led to a whole new light being shed on some well know and lesser known figures.   What struck me as really fascinating was Sir John Moore…or should I say Lt. John Moore?  I knew of his fame at Corunna (1809) and had heard of his great leadership (and death!) but had no idea he fought in the American Revolution…let alone at this most interesting and forgotten battle. Cornwell’s description of Lt. Moore fits in with his style of the young officer he portrays so well in the Sharpe series.   When reading this I wasn’t sure what roll he would play and was very pleased with Moore’s outcome.

Paul Revere:  Everyone knows his name and knows his midnight ride, but how many know he was in charge of the Massachusetts State Artillery?   I sure didn’t.  This was a very shocking part of the book for me.  While yes this is historical fiction, you really get the feeling Cornwell has done this right. The facts point to it, and gosh does it change the way you think about Paul Revere.

I very much enjoyed this book. I was disappointed but not in the writing or quality of book, but rather with the history.  After every page I figured the next would bring great news after fierce battle…and while the battle was fierce, there wasn’t such great news. The fact most of the fighting was between Militia and Redcoat (with a handful of ever useful Marines,) made for an interesting story that DID add an extra element of surprise. 

Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Bernard Cornwell, and to any history buff trying to broaden their horizon with the tale of a lesser known event.  This book is a great way to introduce someone into American Revolutionary history as well.  Always enjoyable, always engaging, I cannot wait to see what Bernard Cornwell has in store for us next! 

-Private Christophani