FREE presentation: December 1776 in Burlington County
Schedule
Wed, 15 Apr, 2026 at 06:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
Red Dragon Canoe Club | Edgewater Park, NJ
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Join us for a free lecture "December 1776 in Burlington County" at the Historic Shipman Mansion at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, April 15. Guests who would like a docent‑guided tour of the mansion should arrive by 6:00 PM. The evening’s presentation, “December 1776 in Burlington County,” explores the tense and uncertain days captured so memorably by Thomas Paine when he wrote, “These are the times that try men’s souls.” Burlington County felt the full weight of that moment in history as thousands of Hessian soldiers occupied its villages and farms, opposed only by a small militia force of 600 men led by a Virginia colonel.
Historian Eric Orange will guide attendees through this dramatic chapter of the American Revolution, examining the Hessian occupation and the key events that unfolded during that month, including the Battle of Petticoat Bridge, the Woodlane Engagement, and the experiences of notable figures such as Margaret Morris of Burlington and the famous Widow of Mount Holly.
Eric Orange has spent the past thirteen years with the Burlington County Division of Parks, where he has developed exhibits, delivered lectures, and conducted extensive research on local history. With fifty years of study devoted to the American Revolution and a decade of public lectures across the county, he brings deep knowledge and insight to his work. In 2017, he identified and interpreted the ruins of Rogers Mill, a Westampton plantation destroyed during the British evacuation from Philadelphia in 1778 and played a key role in securing its designation as a State and Federal Historic Site. He also volunteers with Main Street Mount Holly, contributing to the creation of historic interpretive signage throughout the town.
Light refreshments will be available during the event. Admission is free, though donations are gratefully accepted and directly support the ongoing restoration of the Historic Shipman Mansion. Recent restoration efforts have included a full exterior repainting and significant wood‑repair work, and community contributions help sustain these improvements. The Shipman Mansion is a 501(c)(3) charity. For updates and photos, please visit the Red Dragon Canoe Club’s Facebook page. For questions, call 856‑986‑7969.
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Where is it happening?
Red Dragon Canoe Club, 221 Edgewater Ave,Edgewater Park, New Jersey, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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