Every year, the Friends of Monmouth Battlefield, in collaboration with the DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) of the State of New Jersey, co-sponsors an annual reenactment of the battle. This event typically takes place on a weekend towards the end of June, coinciding with the anniversary of the battle fought on June 28, 1778. The park comes alive as hundreds of troops set up camp and recreate various battle scenarios throughout the weekend. In addition, there are informative presentations, lectures, tours of the camps, and a sutler area open to the public.
Join us on Saturday or Sunday, June 17-18, 2023, for a memorable experience at the Battlefield. Take your family back in time to the 1770s as two armies prepare for battle. The Continental Army soldiers, who have been retrained at Valley Forge, are eager to showcase their newly acquired skills. Meanwhile, a British-German-Loyalist Army seeks to crush the rebels and restore order. Arrive early to enjoy a full day of living history. Starting at 9 AM, visitors are welcomed into the army encampments, where they can observe soldiers cleaning their muskets while their women prepare meals that may be their men’s last. Some officers may be seen drilling their troops, others planning battle strategies, and some even engaging in card games. If someone is accused of cheating, a duel may ensue. It’s important to keep an eye on your children, as they may be recruited into one of the armies.
This weekend event is made possible through the support of the reenactment community, the Friends of Monmouth Battlefield, and the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry. The Friends of Monmouth Battlefield kindly request a donation of $10 per vehicle to help cover the expenses of the weekend.
Annual Reenactment of the Battle of Monmouth
June 17-18, 2023
Schedule of Events for the Commemoration of the 245th Anniversary of the Battle of Monmouth, June 17-18, 2023 (reenactment schedule) and June 24-25, 2023 (additional programs)
Note: schedule subject to change.
SATURDAY, JUNE 17
9:00 AM Camps open to the public
10:30 AM Continentals parade and drill (on hillside below Visitor Center)
11:00 AM British parade and drill (on hillside below Visitor Center)
11:00 AM Tour of Continental Camp (meet at von Steuben Statue)
12:00 PM Mounted (horse) demonstration (on hillside below Visitor Center)
12:30 PM Children’s musket drill (at flagpole near Visitor Center)
1:30 PM Children’s cannon drill (plaza outside Visitor Center)
2:30 PM Battle reenactment (battle area on hillside below Visitor Center)
5:00 PM Camps close to public, Sutlers remain open
SUNDAY, JUNE 18
9:00 AM Camps open to the public
10:00 AM Court Martial of Continental Officer in Continental Camp
11:00 AM Artillery drill (on hillside below Visitor Center)
11:00 AM Tour of Continental Camp (meet at von Steuben Statue)
12:00 PM TBA
1:00 PM Children’s cannon drill (plaza outside Visitor Center)
1:30 PM Battle reenactment (battle area on hillside below Visitor Center)
2:45 PM Children’s musket drill (plaza outside Visitor Center)
3:00 PM Camps close to public, Sutlers remain open
SATURDAY, JUNE 24
OPEN 1 PM -4 PM
12:15 PM Children’s cannon drill
1:00 PM “Over Here Molly Pitcher!” presentation by living history historian Stacy Roth
(Auditorium in Visitor Center)
2:00 PM Walking tour of the battlefield, visiting the Hedgerow and the Parsonage.
Meet at Visitor Center
2:15 PM Children’s cannon drill
2:45 PM Fife and drum program (outside Visitor Center)
SUNDAY, JUNE 25
CRAIG HOUSE OPEN 1 PM -4 PM
12:15 PM Children’s cannon drill
1:00 PM “Over Here Molly Pitcher!” presentation by living history historian Stacy Roth
(Auditorium in Visitor Center)
2:00 PM Tour to the north side of the battlefield, to visit the new Molly Pitcher overlook
(starts at Visitor Center)
2:15 PM Children’s cannon drill
2:45 PM Fife and drum program (outside Visitor Center)
Battle of Monmouth Information
The Battle of Monmouth, which took place on June 28, 1778, was a significant engagement during the American Revolutionary War. It occurred near Monmouth Court House, located in present-day Freehold Borough, New Jersey. The battle was fought between the Continental Army, led by General George Washington, and the British Army in North America, commanded by General Sir Henry Clinton.
The battle unfolded as the British Army began its withdrawal from Monmouth Court House, and the Continental Army seized the opportunity to launch an attack on their rear. The goal for the Americans was to disrupt the British retreat and inflict heavy casualties. The battle marked a crucial moment for the Continental Army, demonstrating their capability to engage a full British army in a pitched battle.
Despite facing challenging circumstances, including intense heat and communication issues, the Continental Army fought valiantly. The battle witnessed the bravery of notable individuals such as General Charles Lee, who played a key role in coordinating the American forces. The performance of the troops, including the American artillery, showcased their discipline and determination.
Although the battle did not result in a decisive victory for either side, the American army successfully held their ground and prevented the British from achieving their objectives. This battle was the last major engagement between the two main armies during the Revolutionary War.
The Battle of Monmouth had broader implications for the American cause. It demonstrated the strength and resilience of the Continental Army, boosting morale among the American troops and inspiring confidence in their ability to confront the British forces head-on. The battle also highlighted the growing professionalism and effectiveness of the Continental Army under the leadership of General Washington.
The significance of the Battle of Monmouth was further emphasized by the surrender of the British at Saratoga earlier in 1778. This event led to France officially joining the war as an ally of the United States, providing crucial support to the American cause.
Today, the 1,818-acre Monmouth Battlefield State Park preserves the memory of this historic battle. The park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the battlefield, learn about the events that unfolded, and appreciate the sacrifices made by both American and British forces during this pivotal moment in the American Revolutionary War.