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 and Facebook in the coming days for videos of the event.

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