🌤 Weather at Clarke House by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31–73 °F | 59–86 °F | 34–78 °F | 23–44 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Trenton State College, 7 mi away, elevation 100 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
New Jersey’s Battle of Princeton Hospital — 1772 Farmhouse at Princeton Battlefield State Park, Field Hospital for American and British Wounded January 1777, Washington’s Decisive Victory, 500 Mercer Road, Princeton Mercer County New Jersey
Clarke House is a historic farmhouse at 500 Mercer Road, within Princeton Battlefield State Park, Princeton, Mercer County, New Jersey. Built in 1772, the house witnessed heavy fighting during the Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777, and served as a field hospital for wounded soldiers from both the American and British armies. The house is part of the New Jersey State Park System and features interpretation of the Battle of Princeton and its aftermath, restored period rooms depicting colonial-era farm life, exhibits on the house’s role as a field hospital for both sides, connections to George Washington’s decisive New Jersey campaign, and the broader Princeton Battlefield State Park grounds.
The Battle of Princeton
The Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777, was one of George Washington’s most important victories. Just days after the famous crossing of the Delaware and victory at Trenton, Washington’s forces marched overnight and surprised British troops at Princeton. The fighting swept through the fields around Clarke House, and the farmhouse was quickly pressed into service as a field hospital treating wounded from both armies. The victory at Princeton — combined with Trenton — revived American morale and changed the course of the Revolution.
The Farmhouse
Built just five years before the battle, Clarke House is a well-preserved example of 18th-century New Jersey farmhouse architecture. Visitors can explore the house and learn about both colonial-era agricultural life and the dramatic events of January 1777. The surrounding Princeton Battlefield State Park preserves the grounds where the battle took place, including monuments and interpretive markers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this house historically significant?
It served as a field hospital for both American and British wounded after the Battle of Princeton in January 1777.
Can I visit the battlefield?
Yes, Clarke House is within Princeton Battlefield State Park, which preserves the battlefield grounds with trails and monuments.
Wildlife & Nature
Clarke House — a colonial-era farmhouse with connections to Revolutionary War history. The surrounding New Jersey landscape supports songbirds, red-tailed hawks, and white-tailed deer.
Nearby Attractions
Local New Jersey communities — surrounding.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Princeton Battlefield State Park (a short drive away) and Drumthwacket (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Clarke House
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash 6 feet or less, with the pet under physical control at all times.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from swimming beaches and swimming waters statewide.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited from cabins/lodging; the Pet Friendly Camping Program designates campsites at 13 areas (e.g. Round Valley all sites, Allaire 1-8, Bass River 1-85, Stokes 101-137) for up to two dogs or cats per permit.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $5.00 per night additional charge for a pet-friendly campsite; no day-use pet fee.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pet Friendly Camping requires current rabies vaccination with written proof at check-in; caged birds/reptiles only allowed inside RVs.
Are dogs allowed at Clarke House?
Pets are allowed in NJ state parks and forests on leash but are prohibited from buildings, swimming beaches and non-designated campsites. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dep.nj.gov. More: New Jersey state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
