Governor Phil Murphy, Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, and Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman launched New Jersey’s commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary at Monmouth Battlefield State Park, setting in motion a multi-year celebration of the state’s Revolutionary War legacy. The initiative will extend from 2026 through 2033, marking New Jersey’s contributions to American independence with educational programming, historical site revitalizations, and events across the state.
The anniversary initiative, led by RevolutionNJ in partnership with the New Jersey Historical Commission and the Crossroads of the American Revolution Association, aims to showcase New Jersey’s critical role as the “Crossroads of the American Revolution.” Governor Murphy highlighted the state’s forward-thinking spirit, saying, “New Jersey is not just home to revolutionary history—we are, to this day, the birthplace for revolutionary possibilities. From our culinary landscape to our leadership in clean energy and AI, New Jersey is where the future is being built.”
Lieutenant Governor Way celebrated New Jersey’s cultural resilience: “This shared legacy reflects our resilience and strength as united Americans, standing together through generations.” Congresswoman Watson Coleman, a member of the Semiquincentennial Commission, emphasized the state’s pivotal role in the war, particularly at Monmouth Battlefield: “So much of the story of our nation’s founding took place right here in New Jersey.”
The launch event featured a stirring array of patriotic elements, including musical performances by the Washington Crossing Fifes and Drums and an essay presentation by Malay Gupta, an Edison middle school student and contest winner. “Today’s launch of America250 in New Jersey honors our state’s rich history and its pivotal role in America’s fight for independence,” said Senator Cory Booker, underscoring the significance of preserving these historic sites to inspire future generations.
Among the commemorative events planned is a marquee July 4, 2026 celebration with performances and reenactments, along with interactive programming across the state:
– **Tavern Talks**: A dialogue-driven series at historic taverns and microbreweries, inviting attendees to explore Revolutionary-era issues that resonate today.
– **Revolutionary Lives Traveling Exhibition**: A free exhibit starting in 2025, showcasing the stories of diverse individuals in the Revolution.
– **The RevolutionNJ Race Series**: Launched in August 2024, this series of 5k races around key Revolutionary sites will continue through 2026.
– **Educational Programs**: Programs for middle and high school students focusing on themes of freedom and democracy, including resources for educators.
Funding for these initiatives includes a $25 million investment for restoration of Revolutionary War sites such as Monmouth Battlefield, Trenton’s Old Barracks, and the Wallace House in Somerville. “In 2026, we will have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate New Jersey’s role in the founding of our country,” said State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio.
Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette detailed the improvements underway, including a new visitor center at Washington Crossing State Park. “The Department of Environmental Protection is making capital investments in New Jersey’s Revolutionary War historic sites…to ensure they’re ready for the Semiquincentennial,” LaTourette said.
Executive Director Sara Cureton of the New Jersey Historical Commission shared the broader vision: “In a time when the nation is divided on many issues, this anniversary provides an invaluable opportunity to re-engage…with the ideals of the Revolution—liberty, equality, justice.”
New Jersey anticipates an influx of visitors to its historic sites, boosting local tourism. RevolutionNJ and the New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism are preparing for this increased interest, building on a record 120.5 million visitors in 2023, a 5% increase from the previous year.
As preparations continue, officials urge residents to engage with New Jersey’s rich heritage. Carrie Fellows, of Crossroads of the American Revolution, said, “Connecting people with our state’s historic sites will strengthen our communities, our economy, and our understanding of democracy for generations to come.” For more information, visit [RevNJ.org](https://revnj.org).
