The Trenton Battle Monument. Photo courtesy N.J. Department of Environmental Protection, Div. Of Parks & Forestry
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Battle of Trenton Monument:
Site of the American Artillery Emplacement
The
Battle of Trenton monument was erected in 1893 to mark the site of
where American artillery was placed in the surprise attack on
Trenton, December 26, 1776. The Continental Army, led by General
George Washington, crossed the Delaware in December 1776, and
headed for the enemy's barracks in Trenton, where they defeated
Hessian mercenaries. On January 2, a second battle was fought that
held back the British, while the main Continental forces marched to
Princeton. The battle of Trenton marks a turning point in the war
in America's favor.
A movement to erect a monument commemorating the
success at Trenton began in 1843. About forty years later in 1886,
the property for the monument was acquired by the Trenton Monument
Association. To build the monument, the New Jersey legislature
appropriated $15,000, Congress $30,000, and citizens contributed
$15,000. On December 26, 1891-the 115th anniversary of the Battle
of Trenton, the cornerstone was laid. Two years later on October
19, 1893-the 112th anniversary of the surrender at Yorktown, a
dedication was held, attended by eight governors of the original
thirteen states. Designed by John H. Duncan, the architect of
Grant's Tomb, the memorial is an early example of the Beaux Arts
style in America. Its doric column is 150 feet high and made of
granite. Near the top of the column is a small round pavilion that
provides access to the platform. The pavilion is surmounted by an
acanthus leaf pedestal, upon which a statue of George Washington,
right arm outstretched, tops the impressive monument to the pivotal
battle.
Documentation comprises a brochure from the New
Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry.
Originally submitted by: Christopher H. Smith, Representative (4th District).
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