The Last Invasion Historic Trail intersects the Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail in Springfield. Created by an act of Congress in 2009, the Trail marks the contribution made by the French that enabled the American army to finally defeat the British, winning independence for the America. The Trail runs from Rhode Island to Virginia, passing through Union County from Summit to Scotch Plains.
When Rochambeau arrived in America, the Continental Army was running on faith, hope, and promises — short of men, weapons, food, clothing, and money. The combination of Rochambeau’s and Washington’s forces culminated 15 months later in victory at Yorktown.
This historic trail marks the 680-mile route taken by Washington and Rochambeau to and from the siege of Yorktown. In New Jersey, this historic route follows roads that have existed since the 1700s. In Union County, the first New Jersey county to mark this trail, the route includes: Raritan Rd. and Lamberts Mill Rd. in Scotch Plains; W. Broad St. in Westfield; Mountain Ave. in Westfield, Mountainside and Springfield; Morris Ave. in Springfield; and Morris Turnpike in Summit. Learn more at http://www.nps.gov/waro/index.htm.
Historic Sites Along The Last Invasion Historic Trail
The Last Invasion Historic Trail begins at the Elizabeth waterfront, where British and Hessian troops crossed over from their base on Staten Island. The sites that follow are in the order they are passed along this historic trail, which stretches 9.2 miles from the Arthur Kill to Springfield.
There are three major historic sites of interest related to the events of June, 1780, which while not on the trail route, are worth visiting: Liberty Hall in Union, along with Washington’s Headquarters and Jockey Hollow, both in Morristown.
For even more details on many of these sites, go to: https://www.revolutionarywarnewjersey.com/new_jersey_revolutionary_war_sites/towns/elizabeth_nj_revolutionary_war_sites.htm