🌤 Weather at Monmouth Battle Monument by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31–72 °F | 60–86 °F | 36–78 °F | 23–47 °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 Freehold-Marlboro, 4 mi away, elevation 194 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
New Jersey’s Revolutionary War Monument — 94-Foot Monument Commemorating the Battle of Monmouth June 28, 1778, Bronze Relief Tablets, Washington Rallying the Troops, Molly Pitcher, Dedicated 1884, Freehold Monmouth County New Jersey
Monmouth Battle Monument is a state historic site in downtown Freehold, Monmouth County, New Jersey, located in front of the Monmouth County Courthouse. This imposing 94-foot-tall monument commemorates the Battle of Monmouth, one of the largest and longest engagements of the American Revolutionary War, fought on June 28, 1778. Dedicated in 1884, the monument features bronze relief tablets depicting pivotal scenes from the battle including “Washington Rallying the Troops” and the legendary “Molly Pitcher” at her cannon, five relief panels illustrating key battle moments, a commanding columnar design visible from throughout downtown Freehold, and free public access year-round.
The Battle of Monmouth
The Battle of Monmouth was a turning point in the Revolutionary War. On June 28, 1778, General George Washington’s Continental Army engaged British General Sir Henry Clinton’s forces as they marched from Philadelphia to New York. In the brutal summer heat — temperatures exceeded 100°F — Washington personally rallied his retreating troops after General Charles Lee ordered an unauthorized retreat. The battle ended in a tactical draw but proved the Continental Army could stand toe-to-toe with the British regulars, validating the training received at Valley Forge.
Molly Pitcher
The battle is also famous for the legend of Molly Pitcher — believed to be Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley — who carried water to exhausted soldiers and, when her husband collapsed at his cannon, took his place loading and firing the artillery. Her heroism is memorialized in one of the monument’s bronze relief panels and has become one of the most enduring stories of the Revolution.
The Monument
Designed by Douglas Smyth and dedicated on November 13, 1884, the monument stands in a prominent location in front of the Monmouth County Courthouse. Its five bronze relief panels tell the story of the battle, from the initial engagement to Washington’s leadership. The monument is freely accessible to visitors and serves as a focal point for commemorative events and historical tours of Freehold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Molly Pitcher real?
The legend is believed to be based on Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley, who carried water and took over her husband’s cannon during the battle.
Is there a fee to visit?
No, the monument is in a public downtown location and freely accessible at all times.
Wildlife & Nature
Monmouth Battle Monument — a 94-foot column (1884) commemorating the Battle of Monmouth (June 28, 1778), one of the largest battles of the American Revolution. Molly Pitcher legendarily manned a cannon here. Urban songbirds and hawks circle the monument.
Nearby Attractions
Freehold — adjacent. Monmouth Battlefield SP — 3 miles west. Allaire SP — 15 miles east.
More parks nearby: Monmouth Battlefield State Park is a short drive away, while Craig House lies a short drive away.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Monmouth Battle Monument
- 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 Monmouth Battle Monument?
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
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