Princeton Battlefield State Park

About Princeton Battlefield State Park

On January 3, 1777, a peaceful winter field in the woods of Princeton Battlefield was transformed into one of the most famous battles in US military history. American troops under General George Washington surprised and defeated troops of British tribesmen in a desperate battle. The Battle of Princeton gave Washington victory in its "Ten Crucial Days," which included its victory over the British in Trenton, New Jersey, and the capture of New York.

The battle stretched for miles, and the famous Mercer Oak was once the site where General Hugh Mercer fell during the Battle of Princeton. The Clarke House, built in 1772 by Thomas Clarke, witnessed the fierce fighting and served as the resting place of General Mercer, who died there nine days later. Today, the house houses antique furniture and exhibits from the Revolutionary War, as well as a replica of Mercer oak.

In addition to the park, the Institute's woodland includes the Mercer Oak Trail, a 1.5 km hiking trail from Clarke House. Most trails are flat or slightly graded, but there are some steep climbs and descents as well as a few short, steep descents.

Located on Mercer Road near Princeton Pike, the Ionic Colonnade was designed by the famous sculptor and architect William H. Dyer of New York City. A stone courtyard marks the graves of 21 British and 15 American soldiers who died in battle. The monument, designed by sculptor Frederick MacMonnies and dedicated by President Harding, is also located at the entrance of the Princeton Hotel, just south of the park entrance. Alfred Noyes, poet laureate of England, wrote a poem on these pages about the battle of Princeton and his experiences in Princeton.