Benevento's History Blog

A Tour of Harpers Ferry, WV

August 30th, 2026

My family and I went on a trip to Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland and Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, two significant Civil War sites that I’ve wanted to see for a long time. For the kids, we stopped at Adventure Park USA in Monrovia, MD, on the first day before heading to our hotel at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Charles Town, West Virginia. We went to Antietam on Day 2 for a four-hour tour of the battlefield. On Day 3, we did a 2.5-hour tour of Harpers Ferry, followed by lunch and some time wandering around to see different sites and shops. Then, on Day 4, we packed our belongings and went to Crystal Grottoes Caverns in Boonsboro, MD, where we toured the amazing caves. We then headed back to New Jersey.

My previous blog post focused on our day touring Antietam National Battlefield, which you can read HERE. This blog post will focus on our day at Harpers Ferry.

If you read my previous blog post, you read about my advice to book your tours through the battlefield or historic site and have a licensed guide give your tour, as opposed to going through a site like Viator. So, like we did for our Antietam tour, we booked our tour at Harpers Ferry through Harpers Ferry Park Association (https://www.harpersferryhistory.org/certified-guide-tours).

We got a great tour guide named Andy Jackson, and he did a fantastic job throughout our 2.5-hour tour. The tour started at 9 a.m., and he first took us up to Bolivar Heights, high ground overlooking the Lower Town of Harpers Ferry with great views of the surrounding heights.

History of Harpers Ferry

Atop Bolivar Heights, Andy provided us with the historical background of Harpers Ferry, why it was settled, and why its strategic location at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers led President George Washington to select it as the site of a federal armory in the 1790s. By the start of the Civil War in 1861, Harpers Ferry was one of only two federal armories where weapons were produced, making it a significant location for many historic events that were discussed during the tour.

The Battle of Harpers Ferry (1862)

Standing atop Bolivar Heights, Andy explained the Battle of Harpers Ferry, which took place from September 12–15, 1862, ending just two days before the Battle of Antietam during the American Civil War. During the Maryland Campaign, Robert E. Lee and the Confederate army, following a string of victories in Virginia, decided to invade the Union state of Maryland. Capturing Harpers Ferry became an important strategic objective as the Confederates moved into Union territory.

Lee divided his army and sent forces to surround the Union garrison at Harpers Ferry. General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson was given overall command of the operation. Confederate forces occupied the surrounding heights, including Maryland Heights and Loudoun Heights, while Jackson’s men approached from the west. With Confederate artillery positioned on the high ground surrounding the town, the Union position became increasingly difficult to defend.

The federal troops were attempting to hold the very heights we were standing on. On September 15th, the Union garrison surrendered to Jackson’s forces. More than 12,000 Union soldiers were captured, making it the largest surrender of U.S. forces until the fall of Bataan in the Philippines during World War II.

What makes the Battle of Harpers Ferry even more interesting is its direct connection to the Battle of Antietam, which we had toured the previous day. After the Union surrender, Jackson quickly moved most of his forces toward Sharpsburg to rejoin Lee’s army. A.P. Hill’s division remained behind temporarily to handle the surrender and prisoners before marching approximately 17 miles to Antietam. Hill’s men arrived on the battlefield late in the afternoon on September 17 and played a critical role in stopping the final Union advance. Visiting Harpers Ferry immediately after Antietam helped put into perspective just how closely connected these two battles were.

Andy brought props with him that allowed my kids to learn how to load and fire a Civil War cannon, and he also discussed the use and importance of battle flags.

Lower Town, Harpers Ferry

After Bolivar Heights, we got back in the car and headed down to the Lower Town of Harpers Ferry. My kids were able to hold a Civil War rifle. We then made our way over to the ruins of a former cotton mill that stood along the Shenandoah River.

From there, we walked over to “The Point,” the location where the Shenandoah River flows into the Potomac. It was quite a sight to see and demonstrated the strategic importance of Harpers Ferry’s location, as well as its surrounding terrain.

The final half hour of the tour focused on what Harpers Ferry is most famous for: John Brown’s Raid, which began on October 16, 1859, a little less than a year and a half before the Civil War officially started.

Who Was John Brown?

John Brown was a radical abolitionist who believed that slavery was a great moral evil and that violent action was justified to bring about its destruction. Born in Connecticut in 1800, Brown became increasingly involved in the abolitionist movement during the decades leading up to the Civil War. Unlike many abolitionists who sought to end slavery through speeches, publications, and political action, Brown believed that armed resistance was necessary. During the violent conflict known as “Bleeding Kansas” in the mid-1850s, Brown and his followers fought against pro-slavery forces. In 1856, Brown and several of his supporters violently massacred five pro-slavery settlers near Pottawatomie Creek, making him one of the most controversial figures in the growing conflict over slavery.

After Andy gave us some background on John Brown, we walked over to the engine house called “John Brown’s Fort,” where Andy gave us an overview of what took place throughout the raid, as well as its aftermath, which I’ll provide below.

John Brown’s Raid on Harpers Ferry

John Brown eventually developed a much larger plan to strike directly at slavery in the South. He hoped to seize the federal weapons stored at Harpers Ferry and use them to arm enslaved people, triggering an uprising that could spread throughout the region. Brown chose Harpers Ferry in part because of its large federal arsenal and its location near the Blue Ridge Mountains, where he envisioned establishing a base for an extended guerrilla campaign against slavery.

On the night of October 16, 1859, Brown and his small force of 21 men entered Harpers Ferry and seized the United States Armory and Arsenal, along with several other important locations. Brown’s men also took hostages and attempted to encourage enslaved people in the surrounding area to join them. However, the large uprising Brown hoped for never materialized, while local militia and armed townspeople quickly began surrounding his position.

Brown and his remaining men eventually barricaded themselves inside the Armory’s fire engine house, the small brick building that later became known as John Brown’s Fort. On October 18, U.S. Marines under the command of Colonel Robert E. Lee stormed the building and captured Brown. Ten of Brown’s men were killed, including two of his sons, while Brown himself was wounded and taken prisoner. He was transported to nearby Charles Town, Virginia, where he was tried and convicted of treason against Virginia, murder, and conspiring with enslaved people to rebel. Brown was hanged on December 2, 1859.

Although his raid failed to spark the uprising he envisioned, its impact was enormous. Many white Southerners viewed the raid as evidence that abolitionists intended to encourage violent slave rebellions, while many Northerners came to regard Brown as a martyr who had sacrificed his life in the fight against slavery. The controversy surrounding Brown and his execution further deepened the divide between North and South less than two years before the outbreak of the Civil War.

It was fascinating to sit in the very engine house where these dramatic developments took place in October 1859.

After providing the powerful details of the event, as well as its aftermath, Andy finished the private tour a little after 11:30. I highly recommend doing this tour if you want to become fully immersed in the site you are visiting. Doing a private tour gives you the opportunity to have conversations with your tour guide and ask questions of an expert in their field.

Exploring Harpers Ferry

After the tour ended, my family and I explored Harpers Ferry further. We ate lunch at The Rabbit Hole, which was great.

We stopped in a few shops and picked up some souvenirs at the General Store. We got the kids ice cream, and we stopped at the monument marking the site where “John Brown’s Fort” was originally located. The building has been moved several times over the years, including to Chicago for the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893. It was eventually moved back to Harpers Ferry and is currently located not far from its original location.

My family and I then walked across a pedestrian bridge that stretches across the Potomac River between West Virginia and Maryland, which offered stunning views of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.

After traversing the river, we headed to the John Brown Museum, which offered more information about Brown and his raid, including videos about the events. We also checked out the Industry Museum and the Harpers Ferry Bookshop, where we picked up more souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

By that point, it was about 3:30, and we decided to head back to our hotel in Charles Town, WV. We had a great time exploring Harpers Ferry. It was fascinating to step foot in a place where such monumental events took place that helped shape the trajectory of our country. As this was my first time there, it was also fascinating to see the local terrain and realize how Harpers Ferry’s strategic location in a mountainous area at the confluence of two major rivers made it such an important place in American history.

It was also fascinating to visit both Antietam and Harpers Ferry one after another because of their close connection and their proximity to one another. Both sites played significant roles in the Civil War, and visiting them together gave me a greater appreciation for the events that unfolded in this region. I would highly recommend touring these two sites!

Make sure that you stay tuned to my Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube accounts, as I will be posting reels of our time at both sites.
A Tour of Antietam National Battlefield

August 23rd, 2026

My family and I went on a trip to Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland, and Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, two significant Civil War sites that I’ve wanted to see for a long time. For the kids, we stopped at Adventure Park USA in Monrovia, MD, on the first day before heading to our hotel at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Charles Town, West Virginia. We went to Antietam on Day 2 for a four-hour tour of the battlefield. On Day 3, we did a 2.5-hour tour in Harpers Ferry, followed by lunch and some time wandering around to see different sites and shops. Then on Day 4, we packed our belongings and went to Crystal Grottoes Caverns in Boonsboro, MD, where we toured the amazing caves there. We then headed back to New Jersey.

This blog post will focus entirely on our time at Antietam Battlefield. The Civil War is one of my favorite topics to teach because I find the causes of the war and the battles themselves so fascinating. It’s hard to fathom the sheer devastation of the war and the permanent impact that the conflict had on our country. The first time I visited a Civil War battlefield was in 2023 at Gettysburg, which you can read about in two parts here (Part 1) and here (Part 2).

Antietam was another site that I had wanted to visit. Living in New Jersey, Gettysburg and Antietam are two of the major Civil War battlefields closest to me. The ride out from New Jersey was about four hours. Antietam was one of the most significant battles of the Civil War and had an enormous impact on the trajectory of the war, the goals of the Union, and the direction of the country.

Significance of the Battle

In September 1862, Confederate General Robert E. Lee led his Army of Northern Virginia across the Potomac River into Maryland, launching the Confederacy’s first major invasion of the North. Lee hoped that a successful campaign on Northern soil could weaken Northern support for the war and potentially encourage European powers such as Great Britain and France to recognize the Confederacy. Union forces under General George B. McClellan pursued Lee into Maryland, and the two armies met near Sharpsburg along Antietam Creek on September 17, 1862. The resulting Battle of Antietam became the bloodiest single day in American history, with approximately 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing in just twelve hours of fighting.

Although neither army won a decisive tactical victory on the battlefield, Antietam was an important strategic victory for the Union. Lee was forced to abandon his invasion and retreat across the Potomac River into Virginia. More importantly, the Confederate withdrawal gave President Abraham Lincoln the military success he had been waiting for to announce the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. Five days after the battle, on September 22, Lincoln declared that enslaved people in states still in rebellion on January 1, 1863, would be declared free. Until this point, Lincoln had publicly emphasized preserving the Union as the primary purpose of the war. The Emancipation Proclamation fundamentally changed the conflict by making the destruction of slavery an official Union war aim as well.

This change also had major international consequences. Great Britain and France had considered recognizing or assisting the Confederacy, but Antietam and the Emancipation Proclamation made that possibility far less likely. European governments would now have to openly support a slaveholding Confederacy against a Union fighting not only to preserve the nation, but also against slavery. Neither Britain nor France ultimately recognized the Confederacy. For this reason, Antietam was far more than an incredibly bloody battle—it helped stop Lee’s first invasion of the North, discouraged foreign recognition of the Confederacy, and transformed the Civil War into a struggle that would ultimately determine the fate of slavery in the United States.

The Battle of Antietam was also significant because it brought the brutal reality of the Civil War directly to the American public. In the days following the battle, photographer Alexander Gardner and his assistant James Gibson, working for the studio of famed photographer Mathew Brady, traveled to Antietam and photographed the battlefield, including shocking images of dead soldiers lying where they had fallen. Brady later displayed the photographs at his New York City gallery in an exhibition titled The Dead of Antietam. Although Americans had read newspaper accounts describing the enormous casualties of the war, these photographs allowed civilians to actually see its destruction and human cost. For many Americans far from the battlefields, the images provided an unprecedented and disturbing view of the realities of war and helped transform how the public experienced the Civil War.

Our Day

I booked a private tour through Antietam Battlefield Guides (https://antietamguides.com/) for just my family and me. As I have gone on many tours over the last few years, I have some words of wisdom: book tours through the battlefield organization so that you get an expert guide who knows the battlefield. Do not book tours through a site like Viator for something like this. The tour guide you get through the battlefield organization will likely be much more knowledgeable, which will provide you with a much more immersive experience. The tour guide has a huge impact on your experience. I’ve learned this lesson.

Our tour guide at Antietam was John Michael Priest, a retired history teacher who has written numerous books about Civil War battles, including Antietam. He was incredibly knowledgeable and loved talking about the battle so much that he did a great job explaining it over the course of four hours.

We booked a tour from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and before our tour began, we watched an introductory film that started at 9:30 and focused on the Battle of Antietam and its significance.

For me, the four-hour tour flew by because John was so knowledgeable about every detail of the battlefield. We generally toured the battlefield by moving from sites on the northern end and working our way south. Historians often explain the battle in three phases—morning, midday, and afternoon—but as John explained, this is really an oversimplification. Fighting in different areas of the battlefield overlapped.

What I personally enjoyed about a four-hour tour is that it allowed John to really show off his knowledge about the details of the battle. We started off the tour by walking over to a row of four cannons—two smoothbore cannons and two rifled cannons. John did an excellent job providing details about each of them.

Miller’s Cornfield

We then headed over to where Miller’s Cornfield was located during the morning phase of the battle. The Cornfield changed hands numerous times, and the fighting was incredibly fierce and bloody. It’s hard to fathom what the troops must have experienced with such low visibility and the violent chaos that ensued there.

The Sunken Road

We made our way over to the Sunken Road, or “Bloody Lane”. The Sunken Road was the site of some of the fiercest fighting at Antietam, where Confederate soldiers used the naturally sunken farm road as a defensive position. After hours of combat, Union troops broke through the Confederate line, leaving the road filled with dead and wounded soldiers and giving it its infamous nickname.

We climbed the observation tower, which gives you a 360-degree view of the battlefield. John used this aerial view to provide details about the middle phase of the battle, including specific troop movements and the size of both armies at different points. John could point to a single area of the battlefield and explain exactly what was happening there at different times during the battle.

Burnside’s Bridge

We eventually made our way over to Burnside’s Bridge, which is on the southern end of the battlefield. It’s fascinating as a teacher to have taught about the Civil War and the Battle of Antietam for 12 years and finally see these sites in person. It gives me a completely different perspective on the battle when I’ve seen the landscape firsthand. Burnside’s Bridge is a landmark on the battlefield that I’ve have seen in old photographs, but to finally see it and walk across the bridge was fascinating. Standing there also gives you a much better sense of the difficult position that Union troops faced as they attempted to cross the bridge under Confederate fire.

We made a couple of other stops on the battlefield where John explained the later phases of the battle. We also circled back closer to the visitor center, where he showed us the West Woods, the site of heavy fighting during the battle.

The Dunker Church

We also made a stop at the Dunker Church, which was a key landmark on the battlefield and is visible in famous photographs taken in the aftermath of the battle. The original church was damaged by rifle and artillery fire during the battle and was later repaired. In 1921, a violent storm destroyed the building. The Dunker Church that stands today was reconstructed on the original foundation in 1962, using as much of the original material as possible.

After the Dunker Church, our private tour concluded and we headed back into the visitor center. We bought a few souvenirs, and then we headed into the museum gallery, which has exhibits, signs, and artifacts that tell the story of Antietam.

After our time in the gallery, my family and I had to take some photos in front of the Antietam sign. We then drove the 30 minutes back to our hotel in Charles Town, WV.

Final Thoughts

As mentioned above, I highly recommend doing a tour through Antietam Battlefield Guides. We did a four-hour tour, which gave our tour guide a chance to provide extensive details of the different phases of the battle. If a four-hour tour seems long, there are also options for two-or three-hour tours. Personally, I felt that since I had never been to Antietam before and don’t know when I’ll be back, I really wanted to do a deep dive into the battle. My wife and kids did a great job considering the length of the tour. We were also lucky with good weather, and it wasn’t too hot despite it being August in Maryland.

I highly recommend this tour if you are interested in the Civil War and want to learn more about one of the most significant battles in American history.

Stay tuned because my next blog post will discuss our private tour the next day at Harpers Ferry, WV.

Make sure to check out my Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube accounts as I will be posting reels in the coming days!
March To Yorktown Day, Westfield, NJ- 2026

August 17th, 2026

On August 16th, my family and I made it out to the 7th Annual March to Yorktown Day in Westfield, NJ. This was our third time attending the event in the past four years. Once again, it was a great event with a wonderful turnout, and the crowd has grown year after year.

This year was particularly special. A local park in Westfield traditionally known as Triangle Park was officially dedicated as Washington-Rochambeau Trail Park to commemorate the historic 1781 march of American and French forces to Yorktown, VA. The event was well planned and organized by Julie Diddel, chair of the Washington-Rochambeau Trail Alliance of New Jersey.

The commemoration marks August 29, 1781, when General Benjamin Lincoln’s division of the Continental Army passed through Westfield on its march to Yorktown, Virginia. At the same time, the French Army under the Comte de Rochambeau took a route slightly west of the Continentals before both forces continued south toward Yorktown. Among the troops who passed through Westfield was the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, a notable integrated unit that included Black and Native American soldiers.

The Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route traces the paths taken by the American and French armies during the Yorktown campaign, where their combined efforts, along with the French Navy, led to the British surrender at the Siege of Yorktown in October 1781. Today, the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail is preserved by the National Park Service. You can read more about this historic trail HERE.

Opening Ceremony

The program began at noon with an opening ceremony. The first remarks by Julie Diddel, chair of WRTA-NJ, highlighted the significance of the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Trail and Westfield’s role in the Revolution. She also gave thanks to the many sponsors that made the event possible.

She was followed by other outstanding and notable speakers, including Westfield Mayor Jeremy Berman; U.S. Representative for New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District Thomas Kean Jr.; New Jersey State Senator John Bramnick; historian and researcher Dr. Robert Selig; President of the American Society of Le Souvenir Français Thierry Chaunu; and Director of the Sand Hill Indian Historical Association Claire Garland, along with representatives from the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution.

General George Washington, portrayed by reenactor Sam Davis, offered an opening prayer, and the New Jersey Fifes and Drums led the crowd in the Star-Spangled Banner, while the New Jersey Regiment, Heard’s Brigade took part in the ceremony.

Symbolic March

After the opening ceremony, the crowd followed the reenactors, including the New Jersey Fifes and Drums and the New Jersey Regiment, Heard’s Brigade, as well as George Washington, the Comte de Rochambeau, and the Marquis de Lafayette—along with several Westfield officials—on a symbolic march to the Westfield Presbyterian Church Burial Grounds, where more than 70 Revolutionary War veterans, along with family members and other patriots, have been laid to rest.

Muskets were fired and church bells were rung in their honor. From there, the procession turned back toward Washington-Rochambeau Trail Park, where the event continued. Make sure to stay tuned to my Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube pages for videos of the opening ceremony and the march.

Washington-Rochambeau Trail Park

When we headed back to the park, we talked to many of the vendors and organizations that had set up there, including the Princeton Battlefield Society, the Miller-Cory House Museum, the Charles Addams Heritage Trail, the Washington Association of New Jersey, and the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution, among many others. There were also historical demonstrations, including the making of hardtack, as well as sewing and weaving.

We also sat down for a book talk by children’s author Robert J. Skead, who writes books about the American Revolution geared toward children ages 8 and up. My daughter was intrigued by the author’s stories, and we purchased two books.

There was a food truck on site from Uncle Eddie’s Touch of Sauce, so my family and I had hot dogs for lunch. We also bought coffees and chocolate milk from The Mindful Mug before heading home.

It was another great March to Yorktown Day in Westfield. What was particularly amazing this year was the dedication of the park. An event might last one day, but there are now permanent signs in the new Washington-Rochambeau Trail Park commemorating Westfield’s place along the trail.

That is quite an accomplishment and shows the years of hard work and dedication that Julie has put into the organization, which is now making a lasting impression. The markers highlight the importance of Westfield along the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route—the march that led to the culminating campaign at Yorktown in 1781 that helped secure American independence. The trail also highlights the importance of the American and French alliance in the war.

Make sure to find out more information about the Washington-Rochambeau Trail Alliance.

Stay tuned for the reels that I will be posting from this event on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
A Vist To Washington Crossing Historic Park- PA

July 20th, 2026

This past weekend, my family and I visited Washington Crossing Historic Park in Pennsylvania for the first time. About two years ago, we visited Washington Crossing State Park on the New Jersey side of the Delaware River, which you can read about HERE. However, I’d been wanting to visit the PA side to see where Washington and the brave Continental soldiers embarked on their daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware en route to attacking the Hessian garrison at Trenton on the morning of December 26, 1776.

I purchased tickets for the four of us to take part in a one-hour tour called “Crossing the Delaware: A Walking Tour”. Before I get into the details of our day at this historic park, let me first provide some historical context about the importance of this location.

History

The story of Washington Crossing Historic Park begins just months after the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Although the colonies had boldly declared themselves independent, the new nation soon faced a series of devastating setbacks. That summer and fall, British forces captured New York City and drove General George Washington’s Continental Army out of New York, across New Jersey, and eventually over the Delaware River into Pennsylvania. By December, the American cause appeared to be on the verge of collapse. Soldiers were exhausted, enlistments were about to expire, and many questioned whether the Revolution could survive another campaign.

Refusing to accept defeat, Washington devised one of the boldest military operations in American history. On the night of December 25–26, 1776, his army crossed the icy Delaware River at McConkey’s Ferry under the cover of darkness despite freezing temperatures, dangerous currents, and a fierce winter storm. The surprise attack on the Hessian garrison at Trenton resulted in a decisive American victory, restoring confidence in the Continental Army and inspiring thousands to continue the fight. Just days later, Washington followed with another victory at the Second Battle of Trenton before outmaneuvering British forces to capture Princeton on January 3, 1777. Washington and the Continental Army then took up winter quarters in Morristown.

These events, remembered today as the “Ten Crucial Days,” transformed the American Revolution. What had seemed like a failing rebellion suddenly became a cause with renewed hope and momentum. Historians often point to this remarkable string of victories as the turning point that saved the Revolution at one of its darkest moments. As my family and I walked the grounds of Washington Crossing Historic Park, we were standing where one of the most daring and consequential military operations in American history began. Looking across the Delaware River, it was humbling to imagine what it must have been like to witness this remarkable event on that cold Christmas night in 1776.

Our Day

Visitor Center

We arrived at the Visitor Center for our 10:30 a.m. tour, which began with an introductory film that takes visitors from the Stamp Act to the Declaration of Independence to the events of December 1776. The video highlighted Washington’s bold decision to cross the Delaware and explained the significance of the Ten Crucial Days, which concluded with the American victory at Princeton.

Walking Tour

Our tour guide was excellent and extremely knowledgeable about Washington’s Crossing. He discussed the events leading up to the crossing, taking us from the excitement surrounding the Declaration of Independence to the challenges of the summer and fall of 1776, which ultimately forced Washington’s army into Pennsylvania.

One aspect of the tour that I found especially fascinating was learning about the Durham boats used during the crossing. These were not military boats but large cargo vessels originally designed to haul iron ore, timber, grain, flour, and other goods along the Delaware River. They measured approximately 60 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 3 feet deep.

Our guide also gave us a much greater appreciation for just how difficult the crossing truly was. In fact, a portion of the American force that was supposed to cross the Delaware south of Trenton never made it across. The crossing began on Christmas evening, and Washington’s army, horses, cannons, and supplies were not fully across the river until around 4:00 a.m. on December 26—several hours later than Washington had hoped.

Our guide explained that the river was running high and fast, while floating ice made every trip across the Delaware extremely dangerous. When you consider that the crossing involved not only nearly 2,400 soldiers but also horses, artillery, and supplies, it becomes easier to appreciate just how daring the operation really was.

After finally reaching the New Jersey side, the Continental Army still had to march approximately nine miles to Trenton through snow, sleet, and hail. Washington had hoped to launch his surprise attack before daylight, but because of the delays during the crossing, the Continental Army did not attack Trenton until around 8:00 a.m.

Our tour guide also emphasized the importance of the Ten Crucial Days, which marked a turning point in the American Revolution and revived the Patriot cause. Had this daring undertaking by Washington failed, the outcome of the Revolution may have been very different.

Exploring the Grounds

After our tour, my family and I explored the grounds and took several photos along the Delaware River. We also visited the buildings and gardens throughout the park. McConkey’s Ferry Inn is the only structure on the property that still dates back to 1776, although our tour guide explained that it has changed significantly over the years through additions, renovations, and the replacement of its original wooden exterior with stone.

We then returned to the Visitor Center to explore the exhibit gallery, which features artifacts, paintings, and exhibits related to the American Revolution and Washington’s Crossing. There is also an excellent gift shop where my family and I picked out a few souvenirs.

Bowman’s Tower

After leaving the park around 12:30 p.m., my family and I drove about five miles upriver to visit Bowman’s Tower. Before heading to the tower, we stopped for lunch at Bowman’s Tavern, which featured great food, a live jazz band, and a brunch menu. Since it is located just minutes from the tower, I highly recommend stopping there if you’re visiting the area.

Built atop Bowman’s Hill, Bowman’s Tower is a 125-foot stone observation tower overlooking the Delaware River Valley. Completed in 1931, the tower was built as a memorial to honor Washington’s Crossing. Although the tower itself is not from the Revolutionary War era, its location offers sweeping views of the landscape that played such a critical role during the campaign of 1776–1777. On a clear day, visitors can see up to 14 miles across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, gaining a unique perspective on the terrain that Washington and his army traversed during the Ten Crucial Days. Today, Bowman’s Tower serves as both a scenic overlook and a reminder of the courage, determination, and sacrifices that helped secure American independence. The views from the top of the tower are breathtaking.

After visiting Bowman’s Tower, my family and I headed home. There are several other historic sites in the surrounding area, including historic homes and farms, and I’m hoping we’ll have the opportunity to visit them in the future. Washington Crossing Historic Park also hosts numerous events throughout the year, so be sure to check out their website HERE for upcoming programs. The park’s most famous events take place each December with the annual reenactments of Washington’s crossing of the Delaware. I’m hoping to make it out to witness this event in the future.

Stay tuned to my Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube accounts for videos from our visit!
Independence Day Picnic at the Dey Mansion

July 12th, 2026

My family and I made it out to the historic Dey Mansion’s Independence Day Picnic on July 11th, celebrating America’s 250th birthday. The event was originally planned for the Fourth of July but was postponed to the following weekend because of the scorching heat. This was a wonderful event for the whole family, and if you’ve been following my blog, you’ve seen that my family and I have made it out to the Dey Mansion for other events over the past few years.

History

Located in Wayne, New Jersey, the Dey Mansion is a historic home with an important connection to the American Revolution. Built in 1770, the home belonged to Colonel Theunis Dey and his family. Today, the mansion is preserved as a historic site where visitors can learn more about life during the Revolutionary era and New Jersey’s role in the war.

The Dey Mansion is best known for serving as General George Washington’s headquarters during two separate periods in 1780. Washington stayed at the mansion during the summer and again in the fall while the Continental Army was stationed in northern New Jersey. From here, Washington conducted military business and helped direct the Continental Army. Today, visitors can tour the mansion and walk through the same rooms once used by Washington and members of his staff.

Our Day

The Independence Day Picnic kicked off at 11:00 AM, and my family arrived around 11:15. One great aspect of the event was that there were complimentary hot dogs, hamburgers, snacks, and beverages. Nobody can turn down a free lunch, and it was quite generous of the organizers to provide this to visitors. We ate shortly after we arrived.

There was also a great band called MPack playing live music. They performed many well-known cover songs, which created a nice atmosphere for the picnic. Check out their Facebook page here.

The Dey Mansion

My family and I walked inside the Dey Mansion and toured the different rooms throughout the home. It is quite remarkable to think that General George Washington himself stayed here during the Revolution. We were informed that many members of Washington’s entourage stayed at the Dey Mansion and that there were constantly people coming and going while he was headquartered here.

Walking the Grounds

My family and I then made our way back outside. We observed the cooking demonstrations taking place in the Summer Kitchen, checked out the blacksmith demonstrations in the Forge, and made our way through the Herb Garden. We also visited the encampment with Heard’s Brigade, where I was able to speak with a couple of reenactors who are becoming familiar faces at history events throughout New Jersey. My children also enjoyed playing colonial games.

The Declaration of Independence

At 12:30 PM, there was a public reading of the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration is always a powerful document to hear read aloud, especially when you consider its meaning and just how revolutionary and radical its ideas were in 1776. The crowd reacted with boos to the many abuses and usurpations committed by the king, and with shouts of “Huzza!” when hearing the rights and freedoms of the new nation declared. Check into my social media pages in the coming days for videos of the reading.

Following the reading of the Declaration, my children worked on a colonial craft while I made another round across the grounds. I was able to watch the 35th Regiment of Foot conduct military drills. A little while later, my family and I wrapped up our time at the Dey Mansion and headed home.

Final Thoughts

Events at the Dey Mansion never disappoint. Despite the heat on the Fourth of July, I’m happy that the Dey Mansion was able to reschedule the event. It was truly an immersive experience walking the grounds of the Dey Mansion and getting a glimpse of life in the 18th century. As our country celebrates its 250th birthday, events like this are a great way to connect with the history of the American Revolution and the people and places that helped shape our nation.

Make sure to check out my Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube pages for videos of the event!

Check out my previous blog posts about the Dey Mansion: HERE

Visit the Dey Mansion’s website for upcoming events. Also, make sure to check out their Instagram and Facebook pages.

Visit the sites of the Heard’s Brigade and the 35th Regiment of Foot, who are dedicated to participating in local historical events and helping bring history to life.
Battle of Monmouth Reenactment- 2026

June 21st, 2026

On Sunday, June 21st, my family and I attended the Annual Battle of Monmouth Reenactment at Monmouth Battlefield State Park. It just so happened to fall on Father’s Day, and of course this was my choice for how to spend the day. The annual event takes place each year on both Saturday and Sunday. This was our third consecutive year attending.

The event commemorates the Battle of Monmouth, fought on June 28, 1778, between the Continental Army and the British Army. The reenactment did not disappoint and drew a tremendous crowd over both days. If you have any interest in the American Revolution, this is an event you should definitely add to your calendar.

History

While the Battle of Monmouth did not produce a major strategic victory for the Continental Army, it was one of the most significant engagements of the Revolutionary War in both scale and symbolism. As one of the largest battles of the war in terms of manpower, it demonstrated that the Patriot forces could stand toe-to-toe with the British Army in open combat. It also featured the largest artillery duel of the Revolution and marked a major turning point in the professionalism of the Continental Army.

After enduring the grueling winter at Valley Forge, where months of rigorous drilling under the Prussian officer Baron Friedrich von Steuben transformed Washington’s soldiers into a disciplined fighting force, the Continentals finally had the opportunity to prove themselves on the battlefield. At Monmouth, the results of that training were evident.

The battle is also remembered for its brutal heat, with temperatures reportedly climbing to nearly 100 degrees. Despite the intensity of the fighting, the British resumed their planned march toward New York during the night, allowing General George Washington to claim the battle as a moral victory for the American cause. Monmouth is also famous for the legendary story of Molly Pitcher, who is honored throughout the battlefield for her courage during the fighting.

Event

My family and I arrived at the park just before 11:30 a.m., just in time for the cannon firing demonstration. The reenactor explaining the operation of the cannon and its role on an eighteenth-century battlefield was both entertaining and informative. If you’d like to see the demonstration in action—and especially the battle itself—be sure to check out the reels on my social media pages.

After the cannon demonstration, I made a round to the vendors stationed on site. I was able to speak to a rep. from Revolution NJ whom I am a proud partner with. There were also tables from the Monmouth County Historical Society, Friends of Monmouth Battlefield, and Friends of Old Tennant Cemetery, among others.

My family and I headed over to the food trucks for lunch. The event offers a nice variety of food options, along with plenty of shaded picnic tables where families can relax and enjoy a meal.

After lunch, we made our way through the military encampments. The reenactors do an outstanding job recreating life in a Revolutionary War camp. Soldiers could be seen preparing equipment, cooking meals, tending campfires, and carrying out the many everyday tasks that kept an eighteenth-century army functioning. One of the best parts of visiting the camps is talking with the reenactors themselves. They are incredibly knowledgeable and always eager to answer questions about life during the Revolution.

During one conversation, my family and I learned about the role of the riflemen. Unlike the regular infantry, riflemen were often deployed ahead of the main army, using the cover of the woods to harass British troops and target officers from long distances.

My family went off for some ice cream while I spent a little time exploring the museum inside the visitor center. Around 1:30 p.m., I returned to the encampments to watch the soldiers prepare to march onto the battlefield.

The reenactment began promptly at 2:00 p.m. Once again, I was struck by the sheer size of the crowd that had gathered to watch. It was wonderful to see so many people come out to learn about and celebrate an important chapter of American history.

I managed to find a great viewing spot near the battlefield. As I mentioned earlier, be sure to check out my social media pages for video clips of the action, as I was able to get quality footage of the battle. I continue to be impressed by the dedication of the reenactors. Despite the heat, they put on an outstanding performance each year and provide visitors with a vivid glimpse of what combat may have looked and sounded like on a battlefield in 1778. The reenactment concluded at 2:30, with the Continental Army driving the British from the field.

Before heading home, my family and I stopped by the vendor tents near the parking area. I picked up a pocket-sized Declaration of Independence for display in my new classroom from Liberty & Co. Revolutionary Gifts. They have tons of great items associated with the revolution like signs, candles, hats, shirts and more!

If you’ve never attended the Battle of Monmouth Reenactment, I can’t recommend it highly enough. Whether you’re a lifelong history enthusiast or simply looking for a fun family outing, there is something here for everyone. Between the authentic military camps, educational demonstrations, knowledgeable reenactors, museum exhibits, food vendors, and the impressive battle reenactment itself, the event does a remarkable job bringing the American Revolution to life.

Reading about history in a book is one thing, but standing on the very ground where soldiers fought nearly 250 years ago offers a completely different perspective. Events like this help preserve our nation’s history while allowing a new generation to experience it firsthand. For more information check out Friends of Monmouth Battlefield.

Make sure to check out my Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube pages for videos of the event.
Causes Of The Civil War: Slavery and The Battle For The West

June 18th, 2026

I recently finished teaching the Civil War, and for much of the beginning of the unit, we focus on the main causes leading up to the war between 1850 and 1860. While slavery was unquestionably the central cause of the Civil War, there were numerous interconnected causes that all revolved around the slavery debate. There were the states’ rights and nullification debates, the cultural and economic differences between North and South, the moral contradictions of slavery, and the repeated failure of political compromises. However, the sub-cause that I want to focus on in this blog post is the power struggle between the North and South—particularly the fight over western lands.

Someone at a recent history event shared an analogy that I thought perfectly captured the causes of the Civil War. They described the causes as a bicycle wheel. Slavery is the hub in the center, while all of the other causes are like the spokes extending outward. While teaching this material this year, it struck me just how important the competition over western lands became in building the tensions between the North and South.

When discussing the road to the Civil War, one of the earliest major developments was the Missouri Compromise of 1820. Although it was passed forty years before the Civil War began, it planted the seeds for future conflict. At the time, there were an equal number of free and slave states, meaning each side had equal representation in the Senate. Maintaining that balance became critically important because Southern leaders feared being outvoted by Northern senators, while Northerners feared growing Southern political influence—particularly over the issue of slavery.

When Missouri sought admission to the Union as a slave state, many Northerners worried that the balance would be upset. The compromise allowed Missouri to enter as a slave state while Maine entered as a free state, preserving the balance in the Senate. Congress also drew a line across the Louisiana Purchase at 36°30′ north latitude, Missouri’s southern border. Slavery would be permitted in the Louisiana Purchase south of that line and prohibited north of it, with the exception of Missouri itself.

What made the Missouri Compromise especially significant was not simply the solution it provided, but the heated debates that surrounded it. For the first time, Northerners and Southerners openly discussed ideas such as “secession,” “disunion,” and even “civil war.” Once the compromise was reached, it appeared that the crisis had been resolved. However, one lasting consequence remained: a physical boundary had now been drawn separating free and slave territories.

Even Thomas Jefferson, at the age of seventy-seven, feared for the nation’s future when he wrote:

“This momentous question, like a fire bell in the night, awakened and filled me with terror. I considered it at once as the knell of the Union. It is hushed, indeed, for the moment. But this is a reprieve only, not a final sentence. A geographical line, coinciding with a marked principle, moral and political, once conceived and held up to the angry passions of men, will never be obliterated; and every new irritation will mark it deeper and deeper.”

Jefferson’s warning proved remarkably prophetic. He recognized that once Americans began dividing themselves along a geographical line tied to the issue of slavery, each new disagreement would only deepen the divide between North and South.

When we think about the causes of the Civil War during the Antebellum Period, it becomes clear that a political power struggle developed between the two regions. Increasingly, many Northerners and Southerners viewed one another through an “us versus them” mentality. Although tensions did not erupt again on a large scale until the 1850s, the identities of the North and South continued to grow further apart.

In the nineteenth century, land represented wealth, opportunity, political power, and economic influence. Following the Mexican-American War, the United States acquired approximately 530,000 square miles of new territory. One often-overlooked sub-cause of the Civil War was the fierce competition between Northerners and Southerners over who would control that land.

The essential questions became: Would these new territories permit slavery? Which side would gain greater influence in the Senate? Attempts to settle the issue went terribly wrong, particularly with the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854. Under the principle of popular sovereignty, settlers in the territories of Kansas and Nebraska would vote to decide whether slavery would be allowed. Pro-slavery and anti-slavery supporters flooded into Kansas in an effort to influence the outcome, and violence soon erupted. By 1856, the territory had earned the nickname “Bleeding Kansas.”

Northerners hoped that free laborers would settle these western lands, while many Southerners envisioned plantations worked by enslaved laborers. Each side understood that controlling the West meant expanding not only its economy but also its political power and influence over the future of the nation.

By the 1850s, the North and South had begun to see themselves almost as separate nations. It is therefore understandable why each region sought to expand its influence into the western territories. At precisely the same time Americans embraced the idea of Manifest Destiny, Northerners and Southerners found themselves competing over what kind of nation would emerge in those new lands. Controlling western territory would strengthen each region’s economy, reinforce its way of life, and shape the future balance of political power.

Many Northerners hoped slavery would gradually disappear by preventing its expansion into the western territories. Southerners argued that the Constitution protected slavery and that they had every right to bring enslaved people into the new territories. Land meant wealth. Land meant power. Neither side was willing to surrender either.

As the decade progressed, tensions between the North and South continued to escalate. Compromises increasingly failed because neither side was willing to sacrifice its political influence or its vision for the nation’s future. Eventually, both sides became willing to fight for what they believed.

The election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860 proved to be the final straw for many Southerners. Lincoln became the first president elected on a Republican platform opposing the expansion of slavery into the western territories. Many Southern leaders believed they would soon be permanently outnumbered politically and concluded that they would be better off forming their own nation to preserve slavery and their influence. Northerners, meanwhile, were determined to preserve the Union. They rejected both nullification and the right of states to secede from the United States.

When compromise finally collapsed, war broke out in 1861, leading to the deadliest conflict in American history. The struggle over western lands had never been simply about geography. It was ultimately a struggle over political power, economic systems, and the future of slavery itself. By the end of the war in 1865, the Union had been preserved, slavery had been abolished, and the western territories ultimately developed as free labor territories rather than slaveholding ones.
Mid-Atlantic Air Museum’s World War II Weekend- 2026

June 9th, 2026

Few events make it onto my calendar every year, but the Annual World War II Weekend at the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum in Reading, PA is one of them. On Saturday, June 6, my dad and I returned to Reading, Pennsylvania for the 35th annual event. This was my fourth consecutive year attending and my dad’s sixth. The event has become a great father-and-son tradition that never disappoints. The event ran from Friday, June 5th through Sunday, June 7th. We made the two-hour drive to Reading and, after parking, were able to get on a shuttle bus rather quickly.

It was a hot day, but it was well worth it. When we arrived, we made our way through the aircraft displays and, for the first time, were able to go inside a 1943 Douglas C-54D aircraft. The C-54 was the workhorse of the Berlin Airlift in 1948–1949. After World War II ended, the Soviet Union blockaded West Berlin in an effort to force the Western Allies out of the city, creating one of the first major crises of the Cold War. For nearly fifteen months, the United States and Great Britain airlifted food, fuel, and other supplies to the people of West Berlin. By May 1949, the Soviet Union lifted the blockade. Today, the aircraft has been transformed into a flying museum and, remarkably, still takes to the skies like many of the other planes on display.

After exiting the aircraft, my dad and I made our way through the various military camps. Every year, I am amazed by the amount of time and dedication required to set up the camps that stretch across the grounds. The reenactors are extremely knowledgeable and eager to share details about what was necessary to serve during the war. As you walk through the camps, you almost feel as though you are stepping back in time. Weapons, equipment, supplies, and everyday necessities are all on display, serving as reminders of what soldiers endured when they were not on the battlefield.

At about 11:30 a.m., we stopped at one of the food trucks for lunch before finding a spot near the airfield to watch the afternoon airshow. Around 12:30 p.m., paratroopers jumped from an aircraft, an event you can check out on my social media pages in the coming days. My video captures the first of two jumps. The paratroopers were especially brave considering the windy conditions on Saturday, yet they proceeded with the demonstration anyway.

The airshow was highly entertaining, and it is always a pleasure to watch The Jersey Jerks, an airshow team that consistently puts on an impressive performance. Other pilots also took to the skies to showcase many of the aircraft that had been on display throughout the grounds. You can also check out my social media pages for videos of the airshow.

My dad and I watched the flying demonstrations until nearly 4:00 p.m. Afterward, we took one final walk around the event before heading toward the shuttle buses. However, when we saw the long line waiting for transportation back to the parking area, we decided to get an Uber instead.

What’s great about World War II Weekend is that the event draws a huge crowd, yet the Reading airport grounds are so expansive—and there are so many camps, exhibits, and aircraft to explore—that it never feels overcrowded.

It was especially meaningful to attend the event on the 82nd anniversary of D-Day. It is encouraging to see so many people come together to learn about World War II and honor those who served during the conflict. If you have never made the trip to Reading for World War II Weekend, I highly recommend it.

For more information about the event, visit: https://maam.org/wwii/
The Abraham Staats House and the Battle of Boundbrook Reenactment

April 11th, 2026

My family and I made it out to the Annual Battle of Bound Brook Living History Weekend. It’s held each year in South Bound Brook to commemorate the Battle of Bound Brook, which took place on April 13, 1777, during the Revolutionary War. This was our first time attending the event—which lasts all weekend—and also our first visit to the Abraham Staats House. There were multiple events taking place throughout the area over the course of the weekend.

The Abraham Staats House

We arrived at the Abraham Staats House property at about 11 a.m., where several displays were set up across the grounds. We received a guided tour of the house, which was fascinating. The house was originally built in 1740 and sat on approximately 300 acres of land. It remained in the Staats family for almost 200 years. It began as a modest Dutch colonial farmhouse. Over the course of the 1800s, the house was expanded, with additional rooms reflecting the growing prosperity of the family and changing architectural styles. Today, the house preserves much of its original structure, including rooms with original floors dating back to 1740.

The house also played a significant role during the American Revolution, serving as the headquarters of Baron von Steuben, the Prussian drillmaster who helped shape the Continental Army into a more disciplined and effective fighting force, most famously during the winter at Valley Forge in early 1778. Von Steuben stayed at the Staats House during the Middlebrook encampment of 1778–1779 and continued to serve the Continental Army for the remainder of the war.

After our tour, we grabbed lunch from a food truck on the property and then walked down Main Street to where the battle reenactment was scheduled to take place at 1:30 p.m. Before getting into the reenactment, here is some historical context:

The Battle of Boundbrook Reenactment

The Battle of Bound Brook took place on April 13, 1777, and was a surprise British attack on an American outpost stationed along the Raritan River. British and Hessian forces, under the command of General William Howe, marched out of New Brunswick to launch an early morning assault intended to encircle and capture the American garrison. The Americans, led by Major General Benjamin Lincoln, were caught off guard and forced to retreat. Most of the Continental soldiers managed to escape across the river. The Battle of Bound Brook is remembered as part of the larger “Forage War,” a series of raids and skirmishes that defined the struggle for control in New Jersey.

My family and I arrived along Main Street for the reenactment, and it was fascinating to watch from the sidewalk as both sides fired in the middle of the street. You really felt like you were right in the action. The battle moved down Main Street, back in the direction of the Staats House, and continued for about 30 minutes. The crowd followed along the sidewalk as the action progressed. Eventually, the troops returned to the Staats House, where they formed lines and continued firing their muskets. The grounds of the Staats House became a revolutionary encampment. While the battle was taking place, I recorded several videos, so be sure to check out my reels of the reenactment on Instagram and Facebook.

My family and I had a great time. This was our first experience at a historical event in South Bound Brook, and there are many other historic homes in Somerset County that we need to visit—many of which served as headquarters for various generals during the Middlebrook encampment. We were lucky to have beautiful weather, and it made for a great day overall. Be sure to check out the site below for further information:

https://www.staatshouse.org/

For videos of the reenactment check out my Instagram and Facebook.
Ken Burns’ The American Revolution

December 30th, 2025

I just finished watching Ken Burns’ PBS documentary The American Revolution, released this past November—perfect timing as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Revolution and the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The documentary spans six episodes, each two hours long. I found it both highly informative and deeply engaging.

I appreciated how the series moves beyond the traditional Revolutionary War narrative we often encounter in textbooks. It devotes significant time to the perspectives of Native American tribes, African Americans, and women, offering a far more inclusive and nuanced story. The documentary incorporates an extraordinary number of primary sources, giving voice to a wide range of individuals who lived through the Revolution—from lesser-known figures to towering names such as George Washington and John Adams. The documentary also does an excellent job chronicling the military campaings of the war, highlighting the Revolution’s many ups and downs.

The Revolution is presented as both a global and deeply personal event. The series explores the international ramifications of the conflict while simultaneously zooming in on its impact on small towns and families. It powerfully highlights the reality that this was a civil war marked by acts of cruelty committed by both Patriots and Loyalists against one another.

The documentary truly offers something for everyone—those looking to learn the foundational storyline commonly taught in schools, as well as viewers seeking a more complex and inclusive interpretation that brings lesser-known stories to the forefront. The twelve-hour format allows the series to explore a wide range of topics and grapple with the many complexities of the conflict, all while maintaining a clear chronological structure that is easy to follow.

Finally, the documentary addresses the aftermath of the war and the writing of the Constitution, emphasizing that it took many years for the United States to begin living up to the Revolution’s ideals of liberty and equality. The developments that followed would not have been possible without those revolutionary principles. The American Revolution was one of the most significant events in human history, paving the way for later revolutions around the world and standing as the first successful example of a democratic government overthrowing a monarchy.

This documentary is a masterpiece and a must-watch. Check out this link for more info: https://www.pbs.org/kenburns/the-american-revolution