At the Princeton Battle Monument, learn about the Battle of Princeton and how the colonists’ victory helped them go on to win the American Revolutionary War. The monument, located in the heart of Princeton, is a great place to learn about this historic early American town.
The Battle of Princeton was fought on January 3, 1777. Following his iconic crossing of the Delaware River, General George Washington led a successful surprise attack on Trenton. To build off this success, Washington advanced with his troops to Princeton, where they went on to achieve another victory against the British.
Find the limestone monument adjacent to Morven Museum and Garden and Princeton’s Monument Hall. Standing 50 feet (15 meters) high, it is impossible to miss. Renowned Beaux Arts sculptor Frederick MacMonnies designed the monument, with input from architect Thomas Hastings. When the Princeton Battle Monument was unveiled on June 9, 1922, President Warren G. Harding attended and gave a speech.
Note the front of the monument, which features a large bas-relief sculpture of General George Washington astride his horse, leading his soldiers to victory. Lady Liberty stands beneath Washington, urging the troops onward. Look to the bottom left, where General Mercer lies mortally wounded. Find the seal of the United States and the 13 original colonies along the sides of the monument.
Check out the four smaller monuments located on the walkway leading to the Princeton Battle Monument. The first is a memorial to the commander of Delaware's first Continental Regiment, Colonel John Haslet, who perished in the Battle of Princeton. The next is in honor of the "Continental Marines who fought with General Washington's troops at the Battle of Princeton." Check out the third, a map showing the route taken by American and French troops to the Battle of Yorktown, the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Finally, see a memorial to Captain Daniel Neil, who perished in the Battle of Princeton while leading the East Jersey Artillery.
The Princeton Battle Monument is conveniently located in downtown Princeton. From there, access many other points of interest in town, including Morven Palmer Square and Princeton University, on foot.
