History Comes Alive at the Winter Encampment in Morristown, NJ

Morristown holds a unique place in American history. During the Revolutionary War, it wasn’t just a backdrop to history—it was a training and proving ground for the Continental Army. Morristown National Historical Park preserves the site of the Continental Army’s second winter encampment, spanning December 1779 through June 1780. This period coincided with one of the coldest winters on record, creating conditions that pushed soldiers and leadership to their limits. This wasn’t Morristown’s first role in the fight for independence. Just a few years earlier, in the winter of 1776–1777, George Washington had already chosen the area following pivotal victories at Trenton and Princeton. By returning in 1779, Washington reaffirmed Morristown’s strategic importance—its rugged terrain, distance from British forces, and strong local support made it an ideal headquarters.

The Significance of the Winter Encampment

The winter encampment in Morristown was not simply about surviving the cold. It was about holding the army together during a critical turning point in the war. Soldiers faced severe shortages of food, clothing, and supplies. Snow blanketed the hills, transportation routes froze, and morale was constantly tested. Yet, this period proved essential to the Revolution’s success. While encamped in Morristown, the Continental Army regrouped, trained, and strengthened its command structure. Washington worked closely with his officers, managed alliances, and maintained discipline under extraordinary pressure. Enduring this winter helped transform the army into a more unified and resilient force—one capable of carrying the war forward.

Explore the Historic Sites Within the Park

Today, visitors can walk through the very landscapes where these events unfolded. The park includes several key sites, each offering a different perspective on life during the encampment:

• Jockey Hollow: Once home to thousands of soldiers, this area features reconstructed soldier huts and scenic trails that trace the footprint of the encampment.
• Ford Mansion: Washington’s headquarters during the harsh winter months, now preserved with period furnishings and exhibits.
• Fort Nonsense: A hilltop fortification believed to have served as a training and defensive position.
• New Jersey Brigade Encampment Site: Dedicated to the New Jersey soldiers whose contributions were vital to the war effort.

In addition, museum exhibits and archival collections provide deeper insight through artifacts, maps, letters, and interpretive displays connected to the encampment and the Revolutionary era.

A Living History Experience

What makes the winter encampment in Morristown especially compelling is how accessible the history feels. Ranger-led tours, educational programs, and occasional living history demonstrations allow visitors to engage with the past in meaningful ways. Walking the trails of Jockey Hollow or standing inside the Ford Mansion offers a powerful sense of scale, reminding visitors that independence was forged not just in battle, but through perseverance during hardship. These experiences make the park a favorite destination for families, students, and history enthusiasts looking to connect with America’s origins beyond textbooks.

Commemorating America’s 250th Anniversary

In 2026, the nation will mark 250 years of American Independence, a milestone recognized through the USA250 initiative. As the “Military Capital of the American Revolution,” Morristown will play a central role in these commemorations. Visiting the winter encampment during this anniversary year offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made on Morris County soil and to experience history where it truly happened. Special programs, events, and educational initiatives are expected throughout the year, making it an ideal time to plan a visit.

Plan Your Visit to Morristown

Whether you’re exploring Morris County for the first time or rediscovering a familiar destination, the winter encampment in Morristown, NJ, is a must-see. The park is open year-round, with each season offering a different perspective on the landscape that once sheltered the Continental Army. To plan your visit, be sure to check the official Morristown National Historical Park calendar on the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on events, tours, and USA 250–related programming. Additionally, check out the Morris County 250th event calendar for all local Revolutionary War happenings. A visit here isn’t just a walk through history—it’s a chance to better understand the endurance, leadership, and determination that shaped the United States.