In June 1781, the Continental Army under General Washington and the allied French Army under General Rochambeau began their march south from New York and Rhode Island. In late August 1781, the armies converged in Princeton before continuing south to the banks of the Delaware River. Thousands of French and American soldiers and accompanying civilians with horses and oxen pulling wagons and artillery carriages camped in and around Trenton, then a small town of about 500 residents. The Trenton encampment lasted several days as cannon were ferried across the river and people on foot and wagons forded at the Falls of the Delaware.
Imagine the impact of the army's presence on Trenton and how members of the army might have interacted with townspeople. On Saturday, August 23rd, visit the 5th annual re-enactment of the encampment at the Trent House. Bring your children, nieces and nephews, grandchildren, and young neighbors. This family-friendly event includes activities for school-age children including a "scavenger hunt" with prizes, as well as talks by historians.
Hear drumbeats and trills of fifes that guided the troops. Practice drilling with African American infantry soldiers of the 1st Rhode Island Regiment and learn about their forebearers’ critical role throughout the Revolution.
Meet Comte de Rochambeau, the French General commanding troops from France who helped win the Revolution. Listen as he and one of his officers discuss the challenges facing them as they continue their march to Virginia and eventual victory at Yorktown.
Enjoy tea and shortbread while hearing why patriotic women served herb tea instead of imported black tea at their tea tables. Make your own “Berry Fool,” while listening to the story of how this "fine dessert" has been enjoyed by generations of American families. Learn about the craft and art of blacksmithing from the local blacksmith and watch seamstresses at work.
Delve deeper into the critical contributions of the French to winning the war for America’s independence with Norman Demarais, author and professor emeritus at Providence College. Using maps drawn by the French, Paul Larson will guide visitors over the route through New Jersey in the summer of 1781 and trace that route on highways and roads of today.
Also check out other Arts events in Trenton, Literary Art events in Trenton.
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