On June 7, 1780, after the Battle of Connecticut Farms, retreating British and Hessian Troops passed this parsonage. A shot was fired through a bedroom window, and Hannah Caldwell, the wife of Rev. James Caldwell, fell dead. Was it a mistake? Or, was it murder — an attempt to punish “the Fighting Parson” of the NJ militia and the Continental Army?

The British burned the parsonage, the Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church, and other buildings in the area. The parsonage was rebuilt two years later on its original foundation. An artist’s interpretation of Mrs. Caldwell’s death appears on the official Seal of Union County.

Today, the Parsonage displays furniture, clothing, personal belongings and other items relating to the families who established Connecticut Farms (incorporated as the Township of Union in 1808). Artifacts on display date from the 18th century to the early 20th century.

Listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places
Operated by the Union Township Historical Society

Featuring:
– Painting of the June 7, 1780 Battle of Connecticut Farms
“The American Revolution as a Presbyterian Revolution” Exhibit

For Hours: unionnjhistory.com or call (908) 687-7977

Photo By Daniel Case, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3660671