1777
Following the “Ten Crucial Days” campaign, General George Washington was establishing his first winter headquarters in Morristown, New Jersey. By January 11, the army was beginning to fortify this “military capital.” The location was ideal because it sat behind the protective barrier of the Watchung Mountains, allowing Washington to monitor British troops in New Brunswick and New York while protecting routes to Philadelphia.
1781
Following a trial on January 10, a tribunal presided over by General Wayne sentenced two British agents to death for espionage. At 9:00 AM on January 11, the men were marched from their holding cell to the Colvin ferry landing. They were hanged from a tree as a warning to the British that even mutinous American soldiers remained loyal to the Patriot cause. The mutineers had personally turned these spies over to American authorities, proving they were striking for fair pay and food, not to defect to the enemy.
2026 Commemorations in New Jersey
In honor of the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, several events are scheduled in New Jersey on Sunday, January 11, 2026:
- Tavern Talks (Sparta): A “New Year's Feast” program at Krogh’s Restaurant and Brew Pub allows attendees to experience a colonial tavern atmosphere and debate Revolutionary ideals.
- 250th Anniversary Lecture (Hoboken): Stevens Institute of Technology will host a lecture exploring the legacy of Colonel John Stevens and early Hoboken (1776–1825).
- Battle of Springfield Presentation (Toms River): A historical presentation at the Ocean County Historical Society portraying a Revolutionary soldier to discuss the 1780 battle.
- Princeton History Walking Tour (Princeton): A guided tour exploring the Princeton Battlefield and its role in Washington's “Ten Crucial Days.”