Message from Councilmember Ellen Zimmerman | July 11, 2025
As we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026, Scotch Plains is eager to celebrate this extraordinary landmark that began with the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
This milestone, known as America250, is not only a celebration of our country’s founding ideals, but also an opportunity to honor the unique role that towns like Scotch Plains played in shaping our nation’s history.
Scotch Plains holds a special place in the story of the American Revolution. Our town was the site of the pivotal Battle of the Short Hills near “Ash Swamp” on June 26, 1777, when Continental forces under Lord Stirling faced a much larger British force.
Although outnumbered, the courage and resilience of the American troops in Scotch Plains helped delay the British advance, giving Gen. George Washington the critical time needed to secure his army in the Watchung Mountains. This brave stand contributed to the British decision to ultimately withdraw from New Jersey, marking a turning point that brought hope to the Patriot cause.
Our community’s legacy is also preserved in the stories of everyday heroes. Residents like Mary Darby Osborn demonstrated remarkable patriotism by providing food and supplies to weary soldiers passing through our village, while local leaders such as Colonel Recompense Stanbery rallied troops right here in town.
The Stage House Inn and the Osborn Cannonball House (named after a Colonial artilleryman fired his cannon in the direction of the oncoming British who were marching down Park Avenue and hit the house)still stand as living reminders of the historic events and the sacrifices made on our soil.
In the coming year, Scotch Plains and local historic sites will be hosting programs and events to honor our Revolutionary War heritage as part of RevolutionNJ, an initiative launched by Gov. Phil Murphy and the New Jersey State Legislature.
RevolutionNJ will help plan, encourage and coordinate the statewide commemoration of this historic anniversary through events such as guided historical tours, educational workshops for students and community gatherings at historic sites.
Scotch Plains is still in the early stages of planning for the 2026 celebrations, but we do have some exciting events scheduled that I am pleased to share, so please mark your calendars now.
On the weekend of June 26 and 27 next year, Scotch Plains will host celebrations honoring the 250thanniversary. Friday, June 26 will feature downtown festivities, including food, family fun and the unveiling of the time capsule that was placed in front of Town Hall on October 14, 1984, the 300th anniversary of Scotch Plains. The commemoration will tie in with the annual fireworks display at Shady Rest Country Club on June 27.
We invite you to join in these celebrations to remember the past and strengthen the bonds that unite us as neighbors and citizens. Further details about RevolutionNJ events will be heavily publicized on our township website and in future editions of the Scotch Plains Messenger.
As we prepare for next year’s celebrations, now is the perfect time to explore some of our cherished historical sites, each with its own fascinating story to tell:
- The Frazee House, 1451 Raritan Rd.
- Shady Rest Country Club, 820 Jerusalem Rd.
- Osborn Cannonball House, 1840 Front St.
- Battle of Short Hills Monument, 1210 Raritan Rd. (At the Ash Brook Golf Course)
- Scotch Plains Baptist Church, 333 Park Ave.
- Stage House Tavern, 366 Park Ave.
As we prepare to commemorate America250, I encourage every resident to participate in upcoming events and share these stories with the next generation. Our town’s Revolutionary War sites and rich history connect us directly to the founding ideals of liberty and resilience that continue to define us today.
It’s all another reason why Scotch Plains is such a special place to live.
