The Battle at Monmouth marked the emergence of the Continental Army as a professional force. On June 28, 1778, fresh from VonSteuben's training at Valley Forge, the Continental Army fought its largest, longest battle. After a confused morning, General George Washington steadied his troops and defeated the British Army. Three farmhouses survive that witnessed the battle. Of these, the Rhea-Applegate Farmhouse is the most significant. It was used as a landmark in setting up the American defensive positions.

The earliest portions of the building date to 1745. The farmhouse is also significant because it exemplifies a building type that developed in central New Jersey through the melding of British and Dutch building traditions. In particular, the framing system and interior finishes represent an amalgamation of these two cultures.

The grant funded the emergency stabilization of this historic farmhouse, which will be part of the new interpretative program at Monmouth Battlefield State Park.

Approximately 125 acres of vegetation encroaching on cultivated fields, meadows, lanes, and fence lines will be removed; worm-rail fences will be constructed along original fence lines; eighteenth-century lanes will be reestablished; and a walking trail with wayside exhibits will be laid out in order to provide visitors with enhanced understanding of this historic site.

For more information, visit: http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/monbat.html