⭐️ First Event: “Conference on Horseback” Reenactment

Our commemorations will kick off with a historical reenactment of the Conference on Horseback, held in January 1777 in Kingston, followed by a tribute to the retreat to Jockey Hollow and the Battle of Van Nest's Mill. These events capture the unique contributions of both the Continental Army and local militia in the fight for independence.

📍Franklin Township: A National “Victory Town”

Franklin is proud to be recognized as one of fewer than 200 Victory Towns in the nation — communities that witnessed the historic 700-mile march of American and French troops to Yorktown, Virginia, in 1781. This trail, known as the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route, surrounds Franklin’s borders and is a powerful reminder of the town’s place in securing America’s freedom.

In 2026, Franklin and other Victory Towns will "party like it's 1781" — marking their unique roles in the story of America's founding through public events, educational experiences, and historic preservation.

 (L-R) Richard Onderko of Manville, Charlie Carley of South Brunswick, Patricia Farmer of Lawrence, Robert Uhrik of Rocky Hill, Phil Kramer of Franklin, and Ray Heck of Millstone Borough.
(Courtesy of The National Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route Association)