Red Bank Battle Monument

US

Red Bank Battle Monument
Red Bank Battle Monument
Location
US
Category
iconic bucket list
Coordinates
39.871365, -75.189394
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The Red Bank Battle Monument stands as a solemn tribute to the pivotal events of the American Revolutionary War, specifically commemorating the Battle of Red Bank. Dedicated in 1906, this historic structure honors Colonel Christopher Greene and the Continental soldiers who defended Fort Mercer against a superior Hessian force on October 22, 1777. Located within the scenic confines of Red Bank Battlefield Park in National Park, New Jersey, the monument serves as a focal point for those interested in military history and the formative years of the United States. Visitors to the site can expect a well-preserved landscape that offers a profound sense of place, allowing them to walk the same grounds where a critical victory for the American cause was achieved. Beyond the monument itself, the park provides an excellent opportunity to explore local attractions that highlight the region's colonial heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for educational trip ideas, the site provides a quiet, contemplative atmosphere. The monument's presence ensures that the sacrifices made during the defense of the Delaware River remain visible to future generations. Visitors will find that the surrounding parkland is ideal for a peaceful walk, offering a blend of historical reflection and natural beauty that makes it a must-see destination for those traveling through the area.

General information

The Red Bank Battle Monument stands as a solemn tribute to the pivotal events of the American Revolutionary War, specifically commemorating the Battle of Red Bank. Dedicated in 1906, this historic structure honors Colonel Christopher Greene and the Continental soldiers who defended Fort Mercer against a superior Hessian force on October 22, 1777. Located within the scenic confines of Red Bank Battlefield Park in National Park, New Jersey, the monument serves as a focal point for those interested in military history and the formative years of the United States. Visitors to the site can expect a well-preserved landscape that offers a profound sense of place, allowing them to walk the same grounds where a critical victory for the American cause was achieved. Beyond the monument itself, the park provides an excellent opportunity to explore local attractions that highlight the region's colonial heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for educational trip ideas, the site provides a quiet, contemplative atmosphere. The monument's presence ensures that the sacrifices made during the defense of the Delaware River remain visible to future generations. Visitors will find that the surrounding parkland is ideal for a peaceful walk, offering a blend of historical reflection and natural beauty that makes it a must-see destination for those traveling through the area.

Did you know

  • The monument was dedicated on October 22, 1906, exactly 129 years after the battle took place.
  • Colonel Christopher Greene, honored by the monument, was killed in action later in the war in 1781.
  • The site of the monument, Fort Mercer, was part of a strategic defense system intended to prevent the British Navy from reaching Philadelphia.

History

The Battle of Red Bank occurred on October 22, 1777, during the Philadelphia campaign of the American Revolutionary War. A force of approximately 400 to 500 Continental soldiers, commanded by Colonel Christopher Greene, successfully repelled an assault by roughly 2,000 Hessian troops. The victory was a significant morale booster for the American forces. The monument, erected in 1906, serves as a permanent memorial to the bravery displayed during this defense. It marks the location of the former Fort Mercer, which was constructed to control access to the Delaware River. The monument stands as a tangible link to the strategic military efforts that defined the defense of the region during the colonial era.

Cultural significance

The Red Bank Battle Monument serves as a vital cultural touchstone, preserving the memory of the American Revolutionary War in New Jersey. It functions not only as a commemorative structure for Colonel Christopher Greene but also as an educational site that helps the public understand the local impact of the war for independence. By maintaining the integrity of the battlefield and the monument, the site fosters a connection between modern visitors and the historical figures who shaped the nation. It stands as a symbol of resilience and the strategic importance of the Delaware River valley in early American history.

Geography and landscape

The monument is situated within Red Bank Battlefield Park, which occupies a prominent position overlooking the Delaware River in National Park, New Jersey. The landscape consists of well-maintained green spaces, walking paths, and remnants of the original earthworks of Fort Mercer. The terrain is largely level, sloping gently toward the river, which provided a natural vantage point for the fort's defenders during the 18th century. The park's open layout allows for expansive views of the water, maintaining a sense of the historical geography that influenced the placement of the defensive fortifications during the Revolutionary War.

More facts

  • Imported from OSM batch

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