Middlebrook Encampment

90. Middlebrook Encampment · HS

Middlebrook Road
Bridgewater Township, NJ · Map C

Two major encampments of Washington's Continental Army were located at Middlebrook, the first in 1777, and the second during the winter of 1778-1779. The 1777 encampment was of strategic importance because it made British General Howe alter his planned march on Philadelphia in 1777. Congress officially adopted the 13-star flag in 1777, and tradition holds the first place it was flown over Continental troops was at Middlebrook. First Middlebrook encampment was on the back mountain along the stream near Martinsville. See remaining earthworks at the foot of Spring Run Lane. Washington Campground Association operates the site.

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91. Washington Camp Ground · HS

Middlebrook Road (between Vosseller & Mountain Avenue)
Bridgewater, NJ · Map C

Hours: Dawn to dusk
Parking: On grounds

A 20-acre preserve representing a portion of the ground occupied by the Maryland Brigade of the Continental Army on the south face of the Watchung Mountain above Bound Brook during the Winter of 1778-79, while Washington was headquartered at the Wallace House and other units of the army encamped in the vicinity.

The land was given to Washington Campground Association in 1889 by George La Mont, their first president. In accordance with his wishes, patriotic exercises are held here annually on July 4th with a raising of the 13-star flag to commemorate Washington's prior encampment on the Middlebrook at which time the Continental Congress adopted our National colors, June 14th, 1777, making this location the first opportunity to fly the Stars and Stripes over his headquarters.

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Chimney Rock Quarry

92. Chimney Rock Quarry · HS

Chimney Rock Road
Thompson Avenue
Bridgewater, NJ · Map C

Hours: Dawn to dusk
Parking: On road

In 1886, William Haelig leased the land from copper miners to establish his Chimney Rock Quarry. Before 1900, stone was carried out of the quarry to the railroad in Bound Brook by horse-drawn wagons. Haelig persuaded the Central Railroad to lay a spur to the stone pit. Trap rock quarrying was more profitable than mining, and the quarry is still active.

Sponsored by Marjorie and Bruce Freeman.

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93. The Heritage Trail Association · The Van Horne House · HS

Van Horne House
941 East Main Street
Bridgewater, NJ · Map C

Tel: (732) 356-8856
Hours: Call for information
Tours: Adult/Children/Groups
HCA: 1st floor
Parking: Limited

The Heritage Trail Association (HTA) is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization whose mission is to creatively celebrate and preserve our community's history.

HTA offers guided educational, cultural and historical programs for the general public, including special programs for elementary school children. In addition to annually scheduled activities, the Heritage Trail Association provides customized guided tours, special events, and speakers for organizations and corporations.

HTA plans to maximize the Van Horne House's potential for historical and community benefit by creating a Heritage Discover Center offering public programs and interactive exhibits. These programs and exhibits will provide creative educational opportunities to learn about Somerset County's history.

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The Van Horne House

Van Veghten House

94. Van Veghten House · Somerset County Historical Society · HS/L

Van Veghten Drive
Bridgewater, NJ · Map C

Tel: (908) 218-1281
Hours: Dec-March closed; April-Nov: Tues 12-3pm; monthly second Sat 12-4pm; other days by appointment
Admission: None
Tours: No
HCA: Call for information
Parking: Lot

Built before 1720, this house served as a headquarters for Quartermaster General Nathaniel Green during the American Revolution in the winter of 1778-1779.

In 1971 the house was deeded to the Somerset County Historical Society. The Society maintains a library and archives and provides assistance to researchers. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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