I took my eight-year-old son today to the Old Barracks and the re-enactment of the Battle of Trenton. My son was un enthused at the idea of going, but by the end of the battle, he had turned to me a few times and announced, "We need to do this every year! This is COOL!" If you go to the re-enactment, which starts at the Barracks and winds through the streets of Trenton, get there early so it's easier to find parking. The re-enactment happens during the week between Christmas and New Year's, and I highly recommend it, both for eight year old boys who love the idea of war and adult history geeks like myself.
This is where George Washington's troops marched to on Christmas day to turn the tide of the American Revolution. Unfortunately, it is not a National Treasure.
In the words of my 12 year old son, the entire day was "cool!!!" We saw both battles the 11am and 3pm. Awesome job on the part of the re-enactors!! The battle travels the streets of Trenton where the actual battles took place. I work in Trenton and found historic parts that I did not know existed. The staff of the barracks and the re-enactors were true to form and very informative and completely "in" to their roles. If you love history, this is a trip for you. Take full advantage of all the activities during "Patriot Week", from the Colonial Ball, to the pub crawl, to the battles, to the memorial service held at the grave yards of the soldiers who fought during the Battles of Trenton". The tour of the barracks was great as well and we thoroughly enjoyed meeting the soldiers from "both" sides and listening to theirs stories. We will be back next year and for years to come.
This is a unique site in our history, the only remaining British barracks from pre-1776 years. Beautifully restored, great exhibits. Lots of special events for adults & kids. Best source in the area for book lovers of the era. The staff make a visit a great experience.
I just moved to this area and the week after Christmas apparently is Patriot's week. Ended up here after watching the 2nd Battle of Trenton re-enactment. (Which was awesome by the way!! Great job volunteers!!) I love colonial history and I had no idea this was here. I followed the troops after the battle to this place with no intention of going in but I was captivated and thank goodness I had $5 on me b/c I was not disappointed. First the tour guide was wonderful, I do not remember his name but he was fantastic, not only with the information but also answering questions. You are able to tour the place on your own and there is also a gift shop. I love that the tide of the war and our history really was turned right here in my own backyard. Secondly the grounds and building are well maintained! I would say to block out an hour or two for this attraction and get the feel for it or just sit in the square of the barracks and take it all in....I could hang out there all day but Im a history nerd. I like to try to feel like I am back in time. At any rate, it is something to see! Places that are preserved so well like this one, that have been there for hundreds of years....are meant to be seen!
What a wonderful place to visit! If you love history then you really need to check this place out! We learned so much during our visit. The exhibit and building was amazing! The historical interpreters taught us alot of things that we did not know about the French & Indian and Revolutionary War. We will definitely be coming back here soon with friends and family. I love this place!
Highly informative and interesting tour with nice exhibits. The guides/staff are friendly, and the grounds are beautiful located next to the NJ capital building. Check it out!
If you like U.S. Historical Sites this is a very nice place to visit. I have not been here since I was in elementary school.You tour several rooms and are given of narrative by someone dressed in colonial era attire. It was informative and educational all at the same time. I am glad we made the visit and would recommend it to anyone with children.
You don't expect to find this historic gem in the middle of the city but glad we did. Nice short film to review the battle of Trenton in 1776 and its impact on our nation. Guided tour was informative about the history of the museum including when it was a barrack, a hospital, orphanage, Red Cross site, etc. The guides medical stories were interesting and entertaining. Learned a lot about the early pox vaccinations and where the term "blowing smoke up my butt" comes from. Thank you to the Daughters of the American Revolution who had this landmark preserved. Worth a visit. Unfortunately we couldn't enjoy the free sculpture exhibit outside as it was raining. Another plus was free parking.