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Monday, June 20, 2011

Battle of Monmouth

In 1778 the Continental Army battled troops battled the British-German-Loyalist Army on what is now known as the Monmouth Battlefield in Manalapan, NJ.


I'll be the first to admit that each of the battles look alike after a while. There are a bunch of men in fine looking uniforms battling a bunch of scruffy men wearing their every day clothes. Like the Battle of Trenton, this was a key battle in the Revolutionary War.

This battle's most famous fighter was a woman named Mary Ludwig Hays, better remembered as Molly Pitcher. Stacy Roth, of History on the Hoof, 
http://www.historyonthehoof.com/, gave a fabulous presentation about her life. If you ever get the chance to hear Stacy perform go. She is a natural story teller.

The highlight each day is the battle. This battlefield has a built in amphitheater, or hill, making for great viewing, some of which is in the shade.




There were also campsites -- both British and American. Sutlers were on hand to sell their wares. I was thrilled to find some strong ribbon with which I can fix my petticoat. Sometimes it truly is the small things in life.

It was a crazy weekend for us. We did not allow nearly enough time to enjoy the event. Each reenactor is passionate about their hobby. Each has done a lot of research into the time period and their character and are willing (sometimes too willing) to share their knowledge with you.



If you are interested in Revolutionary War history, this is a must see event.

http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/monbat.html
http://www.friendsofmonmouth.org/reenactment.html
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/monbat_re-enact-index.html

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