News
The Old Barracks Announces "The Semiquincentennial Celebration"
Trenton, NJ (February 1, 2008) — The Old Barracks, a State and National Landmark and a witness to the critical Battle of Trenton, has announced the creation of "The Semiquincentennial Celebration" in honor of the 250th anniversary of the building's construction.
In honor of this important anniversary, the Old Barracks annual "Capital Ball" has been rechristened "The Semiquincentennial Ball." This black-tie fundraiser will be held on April 26, 2008, and will include cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at the Old Barracks, a procession to the Trenton War Memorial led by the Old Barracks Fife & Drum Corps, and an evening of dining, dancing and celebration.
Also in honor of the 250th anniversary, the Old Barracks has recently re-launched its informational website, www.barracks.org, to keep the public apprised of the many events to be included on the calendar throughout 2008.
"This is truly a momentous year for the Old Barracks," stated Richard Patterson, Director of the Old Barracks. "Two hundred and fifty years is a long time for any building, let alone one in an urban setting that has seen the history that the Old Barracks has. Little did anyone know in 1758 that the course of history would change right at this building's door. Or that the building would go on to become an educational center that would teach hundreds of thousands of Americans the importance of our history. We are honored and delighted by the support we have received over the years to keep this building going, and we're excited to invite all our friends to come celebrate this important anniversary with us.
About the Semiquincentennial Ball
To be held on April 26, 2008, at the Old Barracks Museum and the Trenton War Memorial. For tickets, advertising and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Carolyn Cudnik at 609.396.1776.
About the Old Barracks
In 1758, during the French and Indian War, the Old Barracks was constructed by the Colony of New Jersey. British soldiers were housed here until 1776. In December, 1776, American forces, retreating from a year-long series of defeats in New Jersey, crossed the Delaware southward into Pennsylvania to escape the British army. Then, on Christmas night, American troops under General Washington re-crossed the river north into New Jersey, winning a stunning victory the next morning over British and Hessian troops housed in the Old Barracks. This success, together with victories at a second Battle of Trenton and at Princeton in the subsequent ten days, marked the turning point of the American Revolution. Independence would be gained in 1781.
At the conclusion of the Revolution, the Barracks housed American troops and also served as a military hospital. The building later fell into disrepair, until in 1902 it was purchased by local preservationists, and then by the State of New Jersey in 1914. It was fully restored in 1915-1916 and again in 1995-1998.
Today, the Old Barracks retains its original 1758 structure. Open daily, 10 AM Ôtil 5 PM, the award-winning Old Barracks staff provides daily tours and interpretations of American colonial life. The building also offers a museum of artifacts and weapons, as well a marvelous gift shop.
Contact
Richard Patterson
Director, Old Barracks
609.396.1776
barracks@voicenet.com
