Who doesn’t root for the underdog? Well, certainly not the Hessians. Much to their surprise, the ragtag American army soundly beat them back during the battle of Red Bank. Actually, they practically annihilated them and the British, who helped, improved the colonists’ odds during the Revolutionary War.
During the 18th Century Field Day, costumed re-enactors play out the events of that battle which took place on the Whittall family’s farm, right on the banks of the Delaware River and the now-defunct Fort Mercer. During the event, you can tour the Whittall House – pretty posh by 18th century standards – which was used as a field hospital during the battle, explore the gardens and get caught up in the drama of the war-changing battle.
Throughout the day, you can talk to colonial crafters, who still weave, spin, make candles and other crafts the old-fashioned way – very old-fashioned, as a matter of fact. The crafters have been selected so that the merchandise is high-quality and diverse and pretty much all of it is for sale.
Kids can join in the kinds of games young ones might have played back then and talk to the soldiers – after the battle is over, of course.
Another highlight of the day is the end of the Jonas Cattall 10K run which begins in Haddonfield and ends at the spot where Fort Mercer used to stand.