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The Opportunity

Right now, there is an opportunity to complete the preservation and restoration of one of the most important Revolutionary War battlefields in America — Princeton.

This is the very ground where American forces defeated British regulars for the first time — a turning point that helped save the American Revolution itself. Thanks to dedicated supporters, this sacred land has already been saved from development. But the work is not yet finished.

Without action, the full story of this battlefield — its terrain, its movements, its meaning — will remain incomplete, limiting how future generations understand this defining moment in our nation’s founding.

Just $250,000 remains to fully restore Princeton Battlefield to its 1777 appearance — in time for the 250th anniversary of American independence and the battle itself.

Thanks to steadfast supporters, 89% of the funding has already been secured toward a $2.2 million effort to transform this land into a fully realized historic park.

Restoration at Princeton will reestablish historic features — orchards, fence lines, roads and fields — allowing visitors to experience the battlefield as it was on that pivotal winter morning in 1777. 

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The History

These fields are the setting of a moment when the fate of a young nation hung in the balance.

Princeton — January 3, 1777

Just months after the Declaration of Independence, General George Washington led a weary and outnumbered Continental Army against British forces near Princeton, New Jersey.

Following his daring victory at Trenton, Washington executed a bold night march to outmaneuver British General Lord Cornwallis and strike the enemy’s rear guard.

As the battle began, American forces clashed with British troops at close range — exchanging volleys just yards apart. A fierce bayonet charge broke the American line, and General Hugh Mercer was mortally wounded.

The Continental Army teetered on the brink of collapse.

Then Washington rode forward. Amid the chaos, he personally rallied his troops and advanced to within yards of the British line under heavy fire. His presence steadied the army, and his command to fire turned the tide.

The British line broke. The Americans prevailed.

This victory — the culmination of the “Ten Crucial Days” — revitalized the revolutionary cause and proved that independence was possible.

The impact of that moment can still be felt on the land today. Maxwell’s Field, where Washington led the charge, remains. The terrain tells the story. Once fully restored, it will speak even more clearly. 

Make History at Princeton Today

Support is urgently needed to raise the final $250,000 and complete the restoration of Princeton Battlefield.

Every gift — large or small — brings this project closer to completion and ensures that this pivotal chapter of American history is preserved and fully realized.

BONUS: Those who make a gift of $77 or more will receive an updated edition of Battle Maps of the American Revolution, filled with detailed maps, troop movements and new historical insights created for America’s 250th anniversary. 

And for those who contribute $250 or more, a truly special honor awaits — your name will be included on a permanent recognition marker at Princeton Battlefield, commemorating your role in restoring this historic ground.

When America’s story hangs in the balance, preservation depends on those willing to act. Completing this restoration in time for the nation’s 250th anniversary will be a powerful tribute to those who fought for independence.

Please make your gift today and help bring Princeton Battlefield — and the story it tells — fully back to life.

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