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149-572: Much of the land is flat and coastal, maintaining a height of less than 250 feet (76 meters) across the entire stretch of both counties. There are, however, a few exceptions, including Mount Mitchill in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey . Mount Mitchill reaches a height of 266 feet (81 meters), making it the highest headland on the eastern U.S. coast, south of Maine. It has a panoramic view of the Raritan Bay, New York City and Sandy Hook. It

298-470: A choice: remain and command the rearguard, or fall back to and organize the main body. Lee opted for the former and, as Washington departed to take care of the latter, promised he would "be the last one to leave the field." Lee positioned himself with four guns supported by two infantry battalions on the crest of a hill to the right of Wayne. As the British advanced – Guards on the right, Grenadiers on

447-590: A countywide basis are Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon (R, 2025; Ocean Township ), Sheriff Shaun Golden (R, 2025; Howell Township ) and Surrogate Rosemarie D. Peters (R, 2026; Middletown Township ). As of March 2011, there were a total of 3,238 registered voters in Atlantic Highlands, of which 842 (26.0%) were registered as Democrats , 800 (24.7%) were registered as Republicans and 1,589 (49.1%) were registered as Unaffiliated . There were seven voters registered as Libertarians or Greens . In

596-467: A defensive line to which Clinton could fall back if things went badly. In total, his force comprised some 10,000 troops. Lee ordered a general retreat to a line about one mile (two kilometers) to the west of Monmouth Court House that ran from Craig's House, north of Spotswood Middle Brook, to Ker's House, south of the brook. He had significant difficulties communicating with his subordinates and exhausted his aides attempting to do so. Although he arrived in

745-507: A detailed plan. After a two-mile (three-kilometer) march, he emerged from some woods at around 10:30, in time to witness Wayne's troops in action to his left. When it became evident the British were present in considerably larger numbers than he had anticipated, Lee operated with Lafayette to secure what he considered to be a vulnerable right flank. On the left flank, the appearance of another British force 2,000–3,000 strong prompted Jackson to pull his regiment back from its isolated position on

894-444: A failed attempt to silence some British artillery, it appeared to Lee that the right flank too was pulling back without orders. It had become clear that he was losing control of the vanguard, and with his immediate command now only 2,500 strong, he realized his plan to envelop the British rearguard was finished. His priority now was the safety of his command in the face of superior numbers. As soon as he received news that his rearguard

1043-411: A four-year term of office. The borough council includes six members elected to serve three-year terms on a staggered basis, with two seats coming up for election each year in a three-year cycle. The borough form of government used by Atlantic Highlands is a " weak mayor / strong council" government in which council members act as the legislative body with the mayor presiding at meetings and voting only in

1192-461: A haven for bootleggers during the Prohibition era . Steamer service was the most important transport during the formation of the borough, and continued through the 1940s. In the 1890s, rail service came to Atlantic Highlands. This opened up Highlands and points south to vacationers. The 1920s saw 26 passenger trains daily passing through the borough. The Central Railroad of New Jersey built

1341-474: A heavy blow on the British, one that would surpass his success at the Battle of Trenton in 1776. Washington offered Lee command of the vanguard, but Lee declined, stating the force was too small for a man of his rank and position. Washington appointed Lafayette instead, with orders to attack "with the whole force of your command" if the opportunity presented itself. Lafayette failed to establish full control of

1490-423: A limited attack did lead to a major battle, he thought their chances of success were good. It was all Washington, keen to erase the defeats of the previous year and prove his critics wrong, needed to hear. By the early hours of June 25 he had ordered Wayne to follow Scott with another 1,000 picked men. He wanted to do more than simply harass Clinton and, while still avoiding the risk of a major battle, hoped to inflict

1639-514: A major pier at the end of First Avenue. Several trains at a time could continue to the end of the pier to offload steamboat passengers. From the 1910s through the 1940s, the steamers Sandy Hook and the Monmouth navigated the waters bringing businessmen and vacationers to Atlantic Highlands. The Manhattan skyline can be seen from the borough's ridges and its shoreline. Pleasure, fishing and commuter boats sail from its harbor. The municipal harbor

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1788-477: A militia rider erroneously reported the British were not withdrawing but preparing to attack, Lee learned that the British had begun moving at 02:00 and only a small party of infantry and cavalry remained in the area. Clinton's first move had been to deploy the Queen's Rangers northwest of Monmouth Court House to cover the departure of the second division, scheduled for an hour later but delayed until 04:00. By 05:00,

1937-698: A more professional force that might compete on equal terms with the British Army. On May 21, Major General Charles Lee rejoined the Continental Army. Lee was a former British Army officer who had retired to Virginia before the revolution and had been touted as a potential commander of the army alongside Washington when war broke out. He had been captured in December 1776 following Washington's defeat at New York , and had been released in April in

2086-579: A number of cottages and inns, such as the Blue Bay Inn. Entertainment venues include the First Avenue Playhouse, which offers dessert-and-dinner theater and puppet shows. Maritime attractions include a yacht club, marina and charter boats for fishing and touring. Other places of interest include a number of gift shops, galleries, and dining establishments. Atlantic Highlands is also home to two annual film festivals. According to

2235-470: A population density of 406.5/km. The Shore Region is 88.72% White, 5.25% African American, 2.63% Asian, .02% Pacific Islander, 1.48% Other; 5.61% of the peoples where Hispanic/Latino regardless of descent. 39°56′42″N 74°04′41″W  /  39.945°N 74.078°W  / 39.945; -74.078 Atlantic Highlands Atlantic Highlands is a borough in Monmouth County in

2384-435: A prisoner exchange. He had been critical of Washington's indecisiveness at New York and insubordinate during the retreat from the city. But Washington had regarded him as his most trusted adviser and the best officer in the Continental Army, and he eagerly welcomed Lee back as his second-in-command. Sixteen months in captivity had not mellowed Lee. He remained respectful to Washington's face but continued to be critical about

2533-466: A professional standing army rather than a militia had been another source of criticism. He had seen his army dissolve in the fall of 1775 as short-term enlistments expired, and blamed his defeat in the Battle of Long Island in August 1776 in part on a poorly performing militia. At his urging, Congress passed legislation between September and December 1776 to create an army in which troops would enlist for

2682-540: A rearguard in the Point of Woods, south of the Spotswood Middle Brook, that could delay the British. He issued orders for the 2nd New Jersey Regiment and two smaller Pennsylvanian regiments to deploy on the slopes of Perrine's Hill, north of the brook overlooking the bridge; they would be the rallying point for the rest of the vanguard and the position on which the main body would form. Washington offered Lee

2831-467: A serious blow to the rebellion. Wherever possible, the two divisions followed parallel routes that allowed them to be mutually supporting. Light troops and pioneers screened the route ahead of the main force and cleared obstacles, combat units were embedded with the baggage train and battalion -sized units provided flank guards. The frequent sniping and skirmishing of Maxwell's Continentals and Dickinson's militia, and their attempts to obstruct and hinder

2980-461: A short distance southwest across the Spotswood Middle Brook to a more defensible position while Maxwell pulled back with the intention of circling round and coming up on Scott's right flank. Lee was dumbfounded when the two staff officers he had sent with orders for Scott returned with the news that he was nowhere to be found and disconcerted by their reports of the British returning in force. When he observed part of Lafayette's force retreating after

3129-495: A stronger vanguard action supported by the main body, while still avoiding a major battle. Lafayette assured Washington that Steuben and Brigadier General Louis Duportail agreed, and told Washington it "would be disgraceful for the leaders and humiliating for the troops to allow the enemy to cross the Jerseys with impunity." Greene emphasized the political aspect, advising Washington the public expected him to attack and that even if

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3278-405: A turnout of 46.1%. In the 2009 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 56.9% of the vote (1,020 ballots cast), ahead of Democrat Jon Corzine with 33.7% (604 votes), Independent Chris Daggett with 6.9% (124 votes) and other candidates with 1.8% (32 votes), among the 1,794 ballots cast by the borough's 3,309 registered voters, yielding a 54.2% turnout. As of May 2010 ,

3427-414: A war council, at which all but two of seventeen generals believed the Continental Army still could not win a pitched battle against the British, Lee arguing it would be criminal to attempt one. Unsure of Clinton's exact intentions and with his officers urging caution, Washington determined to pursue the British and move to within striking distance. Lee's brigades led the Continental Army out of Valley Forge on

3576-596: Is 7a or 7b depending upon elevation. The 2010 United States census counted 4,385 people, 1,870 households, and 1,186 families in the borough. The population density was 3,401.2 per square mile (1,313.2/km ). There were 2,002 housing units at an average density of 1,552.9 per square mile (599.6/km ). The racial makeup was 93.18% (4,086) White , 1.44% (63) Black or African American , 0.25% (11) Native American , 2.17% (95) Asian , 0.00% (0) Pacific Islander , 1.25% (55) from other races , and 1.71% (75) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.13% (225) of

3725-729: Is accessible via Route 36. Atlantic Highlands is a stop for the SeaStreak Ferry, which travels from the East 34th Street Ferry Landing and Pier 11/Wall Street (with shuttle bus service to the World Financial Center ) in Manhattan daily. NJ Transit provides local bus transportation on the 834 route. The Atlantic Highlands School District serves students in public school for kindergarten through sixth grade at Atlantic Highlands Elementary School. As of

3874-525: Is governed under the borough form of New Jersey municipal government, which is used in 218 municipalities (of the 564) statewide, making it the most common form of government in New Jersey. The governing body is comprised of the mayor and the borough council, with all positions elected at-large on a partisan basis as part of the November general election. The mayor is elected directly by the voters to

4023-646: Is located about 266 feet (81 m) above sea level, at the highest natural elevation from Maine to the Yucatán, providing views of Sandy Hook , Sandy Hook Bay , Raritan Bay and the New York skyline. This 12-acre (49,000 m ) site is also home to Monmouth County's 9/11 Memorial. The town's history can be learned at both the Queen Anne-style Strauss Mansion Museum, and the local maritime museum. Lodgings can be found at

4172-738: Is near the Twin Lights Lighthouse in Highlands, NJ, and is the location of the Monmouth County 9-11 Memorial. It was named after Samuel Latham Mitchill, who determined the height of the hill, near Locust . At the northeastern tip, a sand spit called Sandy Hook is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. Continuing south on this stretch of shore, there are famous beaches such as Deal , Long Branch , and Sea Bright . The northern edge of

4321-680: Is represented by Frank Pallone ( D , Long Branch ). New Jersey is represented in the United States Senate by Democrats Cory Booker ( Newark , term ends 2027) and George Helmy ( Mountain Lakes , term ends 2024). For the 2024-2025 session , the 13th legislative district of the New Jersey Legislature is represented in the New Jersey Senate by Declan O'Scanlon ( R , Little Silver ) and in

4470-571: Is the reason – whence arises this disorder and confusion?" When he regained his composure, Lee attempted to explain his actions. He blamed faulty intelligence and his officers, especially Scott, for pulling back without orders, leaving him no choice but to retreat in the face of a superior force, and reminded Washington that he had opposed the attack in the first place. Washington was not convinced; "All this may be very true, sir," he replied, "but you ought not to have undertaken it unless you intended to go through with it." Washington made it clear he

4619-518: The 2000 United States census there were 4,705 people, 1,969 households, and 1,258 families residing in the borough. The population density was 3,805.4 inhabitants per square mile (1,469.3/km ). There were 2,056 housing units at an average density of 1,662.9 per square mile (642.0/km ). The racial makeup of the borough was 94.37% White , 2.30% African American , 0.06% Native American , 1.23% Asian , 1.02% from other races , and 1.02% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.51% of

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4768-406: The 2012 presidential election , Democrat Barack Obama received 50.2% of the vote (1,167 cast), ahead of Republican Mitt Romney with 48.3% (1,124 votes), and other candidates with 1.5% (35 votes), among the 2,342 ballots cast by the borough's 3,329 registered voters (16 ballots were spoiled ), for a turnout of 70.4%. In the 2008 presidential election , Republican John McCain received 49.3% of

4917-727: The American Revolutionary War . It pitted the Continental Army , commanded by General George Washington , against the British Army in North America, commanded by General Sir Henry Clinton . It was the last battle of the Philadelphia campaign , begun the previous year, during which the British had inflicted two major defeats on Washington and occupied Philadelphia . Washington had spent

5066-583: The Atlantic Ocean . Atlantic Highlands was incorporated as a borough by an act of the New Jersey Legislature on February 28, 1887, from portions of Middletown Township , based on the results of a referendum held that day. The borough was reincorporated on September 1, 1891. Atlantic Highlands was part of the Bayshore Regional Strategic Plan , an effort by nine municipalities in northern Monmouth County to reinvigorate

5215-609: The Battle of Barren Hill , and only the discipline of his men prevented his entrapment by the British. On June 15, the British began to withdraw from Philadelphia, crossing the River Delaware into New Jersey. The last troops crossed three days later, and the army consolidated around Haddonfield . Clinton, who had not yet decided on the exact route to New York approximately ninety miles (one hundred forty-five kilometers) away, divided his army into two divisions and set out for Allentown , some forty miles (sixty-four kilometers) to

5364-506: The General Assembly by Vicky Flynn (R, Holmdel Township ) and Gerard Scharfenberger (R, Middletown Township ). Monmouth County is governed by a Board of County Commissioners composed of five members who are elected at-large to serve three-year terms of office on a staggered basis, with either one or two seats up for election each year as part of the November general election. At an annual reorganization meeting held in

5513-651: The Intolerable Acts that had precipitated the rebellion and, in April 1778, sent the Carlisle Peace Commission in an attempt to reach a negotiated settlement. In Philadelphia, the newly installed commander-in-chief General Sir Henry Clinton was ordered to redeploy 8,000 troops, a third of his army, to the West Indies and Florida, consolidate the rest of his army in New York and adopt a defensive posture. Washington's preference for

5662-584: The Monmouth County Master Plan , Atlantic Highlands has been designated as an Arts, Cultural, and Entertainment (ACE) Hub, which is defined as municipalities that have a high concentration of arts and cultural activities to serve as a destination for both visitors and locals, usually including an active nightlife scene in proximity to said cultural activities. Only eight towns in Monmouth County share this designation, with two additional towns designated as upcoming ACE hubs. Atlantic Highlands

5811-579: The Queen's American Rangers , which fought alongside the British Army. The two sides also fought each other in the civil arena, and it is estimated that fifty per cent of Monmouth County families suffered significant harm to person or property during the war. By spring 1778, the formerly loyalist Monmouth Court House had come under patriot control. When the British arrived, they found themselves in an enemy settlement that had been largely deserted by its inhabitants. Clinton's orders against pillaging were ignored by

5960-558: The U.S. state of New Jersey , in the Bayshore Region . As of the 2020 United States census , the borough's population was 4,414, an increase of 29 (+0.7%) from the 2010 census count of 4,385, which in turn reflected a decline of 320 (−6.8%) from the 4,705 in the 2000 census . Atlantic Highlands contains Mount Mitchill, the highest point on the eastern seaboard south of Maine, rising 266 feet (81 m) above sea level. The borough's name comes from its location overlooking

6109-483: The 1920s were summer bungalows, are now occupied year-round. Portland Pointe, a five-story senior citizens building, provides housing for the elderly. According to the United States Census Bureau , the borough had a total area of 4.56 square miles (11.82 km ), including 1.26 square miles (3.27 km ) of land and 3.30 square miles (8.54 km ) of water (72.35%). The township borders

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6258-408: The 2,663 ballots cast by the borough's 3,464 registered voters, for a turnout percentage of 76.9. In the 2013 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 64.5% of the vote (989 cast), ahead of Democrat Barbara Buono with 33.2% (509 votes), and other candidates with 2.3% (36 votes), among the 1,547 ballots cast by the borough's 3,357 registered voters (13 ballots were spoiled), for

6407-403: The 2022–23 school year, the district, comprised of one school, had an enrollment of 256 students and 27.0 classroom teachers (on an FTE basis), for a student–teacher ratio of 9.5:1. Battle of Monmouth The Battle of Monmouth , also known as the Battle of Monmouth Court House , was fought near Monmouth Court House in modern-day Freehold Borough, New Jersey , on June 28, 1778, during

6556-482: The 275–325 troops of the 42nd Regiment in the orchard. The Highlanders found themselves in a disadvantageous position and, with the rest of British right flank already departed, they had no reason to stay. They conducted a fighting retreat in good order with minimal casualties. To the British, the rebels were "unsuccessful in endeavouring to annoy." To the Americans, it was a significant psychological victory over one of

6705-457: The American left flank when its artillery started to engage troops of the British 3rd Brigade. Clinton had earlier ordered the brigade to move right, cross the brook and cut the vanguard's line of retreat at the bridge. After the infantry of the 42nd (Royal Highland) Regiment of Foot crossed the brook, they ran into three battalions of Scott's detachment retreating westwards. Under pressure from

6854-499: The Americans, forcing the British to abandon hopes of a military victory and adopt a defensive strategy. Clinton was ordered to evacuate Philadelphia and consolidate his army. The Continental Army shadowed the British as they marched across New Jersey to Sandy Hook, from where the Royal Navy would ferry them to New York. Washington's senior officers urged varying degrees of caution, but it was politically important for him not to allow

7003-481: The Borough Council are Council President Brian Dougherty (D, 2024), Vito Colasurdo (D, 2025), Jon Crowley (D, 2024), Eileen Cusack (D, 2025), Alyson Forbes (D, 2026) and James Murphy ( R , 2024). Atlantic Highlands is located in the 6th Congressional district and is part of New Jersey's 13th state legislative district. For the 118th United States Congress , New Jersey's 6th congressional district

7152-417: The British Army's most feared regiments. As his right flank pulled back, Clinton issued orders for what he intended to be a phased general withdrawal back towards Monmouth Court House. His subordinates misunderstood. Instead of waiting until the 3rd Brigade had rejoined before pulling back, all but the 1st Grenadier Battalion withdrew immediately, leaving it and the 3rd Brigade dangerously exposed. Washington

7301-490: The British by blocking roads, destroying bridges and spoiling wells, did not materially impede progress. On June 24, the first division arrived at Allentown while the second reached Imlaystown , four miles (six kilometers) to the east. Clinton decided to head for Sandy Hook , from where the Royal Navy could ferry his army to New York. When the march resumed at 04:00 the next day, the road network made it impossible for

7450-545: The British commander-in-chief General Sir William Howe launched the Philadelphia campaign to capture the rebels' capital and persuade them to sue for peace. In the fall of that year, Howe inflicted two significant defeats on General George Washington and his Continental Army , at Brandywine and Germantown , and occupied Philadelphia, forcing the Second Continental Congress to hurriedly decamp to York, Pennsylvania . Washington avoided battle for

7599-600: The British down in a long war of attrition instead of defeating it decisively in a pitched battle. In November, Washington was hearing rumors of a "Strong Faction" within Congress that favored replacing him with Gates as commander-in-chief. The congressional appointments of the known critic General Thomas Conway as Inspector General of the Army and of Gates to the Board of War and Ordnance in December convinced Washington there

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7748-419: The British during the second. An attempt by Washington to probe the British flanks was halted by sunset, and the two armies settled down within one mile (two kilometers) of each other. The British slipped away unnoticed during the night to link up with the baggage train. The rest of the march to Sandy Hook was completed without further incident, and Clinton's army was ferried to New York in early July. The battle

7897-507: The British grand army." His position as commander-in-chief became unassailable. He was lauded for the first time as the father of his country, and his detractors were silenced. Lee was vilified for his failure to press home the attack on the British rearguard. Because of his tactless efforts to argue his case in the days after the battle, Washington had him arrested and court-martialed on charges of disobeying orders, conducting an "unnecessary, disorderly, and shameful retreat" and disrespect towards

8046-460: The British to withdraw unscathed. Washington detached around a third of his army and sent it ahead under the command of Major General Charles Lee , hoping to land a heavy blow on the British without becoming embroiled in a major engagement. The battle began badly for the Americans when Lee botched an attack on the British rearguard at Monmouth Court House. A counter-attack by the main British column forced Lee to retreat until Washington arrived with

8195-413: The British, too far away from the main army for it to support him, and his men were exhausted and hungry. He remained eager to fight and discussed with his officers a night march with the intention of striking Clinton the next morning. That evening, Washington ordered Lafayette to leave Morgan and the militia behind as a screen and move to Englishtown , where he would be back in range of both supplies and

8344-510: The Continental artillery back to a hedgerow to which the two infantry battalions had already withdrawn. Another short, sharp fight ensued until Lee, seeing both flanks being turned, ordered his men to follow Wayne back across the bridge. As Lee and Wayne fought south of the Spotswood Middle Brook, Washington was deploying the main body on Perrine's Hill, northwest of the bridge across the brook. Stirling's wing had just taken up positions on

8493-583: The Dutch allied with France, leading to the Fourth Anglo-Dutch War . Faced with military escalation, increasing diplomatic isolation and limited resources, the British were forced to prioritize the defense of the homeland and more valuable colonial possessions in the Caribbean and India above their North American colonies. They abandoned their efforts to win a decisive military victory, repealed

8642-493: The Englishtown–Monmouth Court House road. In the space of some ten minutes, Washington's confidence gave way to alarm as he encountered a straggler bearing the first news of Lee's retreat and then whole units in retreat. None of the officers Washington met could tell him where they were supposed to be going or what they were supposed to be doing. As the commander-in-chief rode on ahead, over the bridge and towards

8791-607: The Highlanders, the Continentals continued through an orchard to the safety of Stirling's line while Stirling's artillery forced the Highlanders back to the orchard. A second battalion of Highlanders and the 44th Regiment of Foot that had swung right and crossed the Spotswood North Brook were also persuaded by the artillery to retreat. Even farther to the right, an attempt to outflank Stirling's position by

8940-583: The Monmouth County communities of Highlands and Middletown Township . Unincorporated communities , localities and place names located partially or completely within the borough include Brevent Park, Hillside, Hilton , Hilton Park, Navesink and Stone Church . Atlantic Highlands has a humid subtropical climate ( Cfa ) and average monthly temperatures range from 32.6 °F (0.3 °C) in January to 75.9 °F (24.4 °C) in July. The hardiness zone

9089-478: The Queen's Rangers and the light infantry of the rearguard lacked the strength to carry it through, and they too fell back to join the 3rd Brigade. At 13:30, Lee was one of the last American officers to withdraw across Spotswood Middle Brook. The rearguard action had lasted no more than thirty minutes, enough time for Washington to complete the deployment of the main body. When a battalion of Grenadiers led by Lieutenant Colonel Henry Monckton chased Lee's troops over

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9238-411: The Spotswood Middle Brook and take up new positions near the hedgerow. An hour later, Washington ordered a reinforced brigade commanded by Brigadier General Enoch Poor to probe Clinton's right flank while Woodford's brigade was to drop down from Combs Hill and probe Clinton's left flank. Their cautious advance was halted by sunset before making contact with the British, and the two armies settled down for

9387-640: The Third Pennsylvania Brigade. The Pennsylvanians caught the 650–700 men of the lone Grenadier battalion in the process of withdrawing, giving the British scant time to form up and receive the attack. The Grenadiers were "losing men very fast", Clinton wrote later, before the 33rd Regiment of Foot arrived with 300–350 men to support them. The British pushed back, and the Pennsylvanian Brigade began to disintegrate as it retreated to Parsonage farm. The longest infantry battle of

9536-551: The Victorian core of the borough, attracting thousands of visitors and year-round residents. In 1879, a surveyor was engaged to lay roads and lots for a permanent community. The Atlantic Highlands Association was formed by prominent members of the Methodist Church . This organization developed the community of Atlantic Highlands. Individuals and groups came from New York City and the surrounding vicinity to camp along

9685-457: The afternoon of June 18, and four days later the last troops crossed the Delaware into New Jersey at Coryell's Ferry . Washington divided his army into two wings commanded by Lee and Major General Lord Stirling and a reserve commanded by Lafayette. Traveling light, Washington reached Hopewell on June 23, less than twenty-five miles (forty kilometers) north of the British at Allentown. While

9834-414: The area is higher than that in the rest of the state though housing development is considerably lower in the area though in the northern coastal region they rely mostly on industrial jobs this area accounts for about 57% of total state employment though their employment growth is lower than the state average. As of the census of 2000, there were 1,126,207 people, 424,638 households, 298, 194 families, with

9983-574: The area's economy by emphasizing the traditional downtowns, dense residential neighborhoods, maritime history, and the natural beauty of the Raritan Bayshore coastline. The plan has since been integrated into the county's 2016 Master Plan. The town overlooks where the Atlantic Ocean and Raritan Bay meet at Sandy Hook , and its hills mark the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the U.S. south of Maine. For hundreds of years,

10132-508: The army set up camp, Colonel Daniel Morgan was ordered south with 600 light infantry to reinforce Maxwell and Dickinson. On June 24, at the Joseph Stout House (Hunt House), Dickinson informed Washington that the efforts he and Maxwell were making to slow Clinton were having little impact, and that he believed Clinton was deliberately lingering in New Jersey to provoke a battle. Washington convened another war council in which

10281-425: The army to silence his critics. Nevertheless, the doubts about his leadership remained, and he needed success on the battlefield if he was to be sure of his position. The British, meanwhile, had failed to eliminate the Continental Army and force a decisive end to the American rebellion, despite investing significant resources in North America to the detriment of defenses elsewhere in the empire . In Europe, France

10430-539: The artillery engaged in any significant action. Lee believed he had conducted a model "retrograde manoeuver in the face and under fire of an enemy" and claimed his troops moved with "order and precision." He had remained calm during the retreat but began to unravel at Ker's house. When two of Washington's aides informed Lee that the main body was still some two miles (three kilometers) away and asked him what to report back, Lee replied "that he really did not know what to say." Crucially, he failed to keep Washington informed of

10579-409: The average family size was 3.00. In the borough the age distribution of the population shows 21.4% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 31.8% from 25 to 44, 26.5% from 45 to 64, and 14.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.3 males. The median income for a household in

10728-435: The banks of Spotswood North Brook. In the vanguard center, Scott and Maxwell, who was to Scott's left, were not in communication with Lee and not privy to his plan. They felt increasingly isolated watching Lee push out the right flank, and with British troops marching towards Monmouth Court House to their south, they became apprehensive about being cut off. They agreed between themselves to adjust their positions; Scott fell back

10877-657: The battle was raging, Knyphausen had led the baggage train to safety. His second division covered by the Hessian Jägers under Lieutenant Colonel Wurmb endured only light harassment from militia along the way, and eventually set up camp some three miles (five kilometers) from Middletown. With the baggage train secure, Clinton had no intention of resuming the battle. At 23:00, he began withdrawing his troops. The first division slipped away unnoticed by Washington's forward troops and, after an overnight march, linked back up with Knyphausen's second division between 08:00 and 09:00

11026-461: The beginning of January, the board selects one of its members to serve as director and another as deputy director. As of 2024 , Monmouth County's Commissioners are Director Thomas A. Arnone ( R , Neptune City , 2025), Susan M. Kiley (R, Hazlet Township , 2024), Erik Anderson (R, Shrewsbury , 2026), Nick DiRocco (R, Wall Township , 2025), and Deputy Director Ross F. Licitra (R, Marlboro Township , 2026). Constitutional officers elected on

11175-559: The borough had a total of 24.59 miles (39.57 km) of roadways, of which 21.06 miles (33.89 km) were maintained by the municipality, 2.63 miles (4.23 km) by Monmouth County and 0.90 miles (1.45 km) by the New Jersey Department of Transportation . New Jersey Route 36 is the main highway running through Atlantic Highlands. The closest limited-access road is the Garden State Parkway , which

11324-423: The borough was $ 64,955, and the median income for a family was $ 79,044. Males had a median income of $ 60,857 versus $ 36,060 for females. The per capita income for the borough was $ 34,798. About 4.4% of families and 4.9% of the population were below the poverty line , including 5.0% of those under age 18 and 12.9% of those age 65 or over. Atlantic Highlands Recreation Committee runs many events in town throughout

11473-507: The bridge to the hedgerow from which they had expelled Lee earlier. Washington had acted decisively to form a strong defensive position anchored on the right above the bridge on the Englishtown road and extending in a gentle curve one-half mile (one kilometer) up the slope of Perrine's Hill. When Lee joined it, Washington sent him with two battalions of Maxwell's New Jersey Brigade, around half of Scott's detachment and some other units of

11622-462: The bridge, the British found themselves facing Wayne's detachment reforming some 350 yards (320 m) away. As the Grenadiers advanced to engage Wayne they came under heavy fire from Stirling's artillery, another 350 yards (320 m) behind Wayne. Monckton became the highest-ranking British casualty of the day, and in the face of an unexpectedly strong enemy, the Grenadiers retreated back across

11771-484: The commander-in-chief's abilities to others, and it is likely that Washington's friends reported this back to Washington. Lee was dismissive of the Continental Army, denigrated Steuben's efforts to improve it and went over Washington's head to submit to Congress a plan to reorganize it on a militia basis, prompting Washington to reprove him. Nevertheless, Lee was respected by many of Washington's officers and held in high esteem by Congress, and Washington gave him command of

11920-432: The commander-in-chief. Lee made the fatal mistake of turning the proceedings into a contest between himself and Washington. He was found guilty on all counts, although his culpability on the first two charges was debatable. Today, the site of the battle is a New Jersey State Park that preserves the land for the public, called Monmouth Battlefield State Park . In 1777, some two years into the American Revolutionary War ,

12069-412: The council "would have done honor to the most honorab[le] society of midwives, and to them only." A disappointed Washington sent the token force under the command of Brigadier General Charles Scott . Soon after the council adjourned, Wayne – who had refused to put his name to the compromise – Lafayette and Major General Nathanael Greene contacted Washington individually with the same plea for

12218-434: The day ended when the Continental artillery on Combs Hill stopped the British counter-attack in its tracks and forced the Grenadiers and infantry to withdraw. Washington planned to resume the battle the next day, and at 18:00 he ordered four brigades he had previously sent back to the reserve at Englishtown to return. When they arrived, they took over Stirling's positions on Perrine's Hill, allowing Stirling to advance across

12367-409: The disparate forces under his command, and in his haste to catch the British, he pushed his troops to breaking point and outran his supplies. Washington grew increasingly concerned, and on the morning of June 26 he warned Lafayette not to "distress your men by an over hasty march." By that afternoon, Lafayette was at Robin's Tavern, where Clinton had stayed the previous night. He was within three miles of

12516-525: The division that would soon lead the Continental Army out of Valley Forge. In April, before news of the French alliance reached him, Washington issued a memorandum to his generals seeking their opinions on three possible alternatives for the upcoming campaign: attack the British in Philadelphia, shift operations to New York or remain on the defensive at Valley Forge and continue to build up the army. Of

12665-427: The duration. Recruitment failed to raise sufficient numbers, and the harsh discipline implemented by Washington, the long periods away from home and the defeats of 1777 further weakened the army through desertions and frequent officer resignations. Although the army that went into Valley Forge contained the kernel of regimental organization and a core of experienced officers and men, no-one was under any illusion that it

12814-467: The end of the day, Knyphausen camped at Freehold Township , some four miles (six kilometers) from Monmouth Court House, while Clinton established his headquarters at Robin's Rising Sun Tavern, twelve miles (nineteen kilometers) from Knyphausen. The next day, June 26, the British suffered almost forty casualties in near-constant skirmishing in which one unit came close to being overrun. Knyphausen reached Monmouth Court House early that morning, and by 10:00

12963-446: The entire column had concentrated there. It was clear to Clinton that Washington's forces were gathering in numbers, and the British were exhausted after their sixty-seven-mile (one-hundred-eight-kilometer) march from Philadelphia. Monmouth Court House offered a good defensive position, and it is possible that Clinton saw an opportunity for the battle he desired. He deployed his army to cover all approaches and decided to rest his troops for

13112-421: The event of a tie. The mayor can veto ordinances subject to an override by a two-thirds majority vote of the council. The mayor makes committee and liaison assignments for council members, and most appointments are made by the mayor with the advice and consent of the council. As of 2024 , the mayor of Atlantic Highlands is Democrat Lori Hohenleitner, whose term of office ends December 31, 2027. Members of

13261-523: The experienced New Jersey militia , commanded by Major General Philemon Dickinson , one of the most capable militia commanders of the war and Washington's single best source of intelligence on British activities. On May 18, Washington sent the inexperienced, 20-year-old Major General Lafayette with 2,200 men to establish an observation post at Barren Hill, eleven miles (eighteen kilometers) from Philadelphia. The Frenchman's first significant independent command almost ended in disaster for him two days later in

13410-471: The first Assembly of New Jersey in 1667 in what is now Atlantic Highlands. During Revolutionary War years, loyalists to the British crown and patriots of the new America clashed in repeated raids and counterattacks across these lands. Retreating English troops passed through after their defeat in 1778 by George Washington at the Battle of Monmouth . During the late 1800s, the many farms were subdivided by resort developers, church groups and builders who created

13559-572: The first division had begun moving, and the last British troops left Monmouth Court House by 09:15, heading northeast on the road to Middletown . Trailing the column was the rearguard, comprising a battalion of light infantry and a regiment of dragoons which, with the Rangers, totaled 1,550–2,000 troops. The first shots were exchanged around 08:00 in an entirely American skirmish between a small detachment of Rangers and Dickinson's militia. Grayson arrived just in time to deploy his troops in support of

13708-443: The former vanguard to form a reserve at Englishtown. The rest of the vanguard, which included the other half of Scott's detachment and most of Wayne's, remained with Washington. The infantry battle gave way to a two-hour artillery duel across the 1,200 yards (1,097 m) of no-man's land on either side of the brook, in which both sides suffered more casualties due to heat exhaustion than they did from enemy cannon. Clinton had lost

13857-425: The front line, he saw the vanguard in full retreat but no sign of the British. At around 12:45, Washington found Lee marshalling the last of his command across the middle morass, marshy ground southeast of the bridge. Expecting praise for a retreat he believed had been generally conducted in good order, Lee was uncharacteristically lost for words when Washington asked without pleasantries, "I desire to know, sir, what

14006-534: The headwaters to Many Mind Creek. Many groups and local residents volunteer their time to maintain the woods. Monmouth County operates two parks in the town, Henry Hudson Trail and Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook. Henry Hudson Trail runs 9 miles (14 km) from the Aberdeen/Keyport border at the intersection of Lloyd Road and Clark Street to the Atlantic Highlands border at Avenue D, and has been expanded to connect to Highlands. Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook

14155-400: The initiative. He saw no prospect of success assaulting a strong enemy position in the brutal heat, and decided to break off the engagement. His first task was to bring in his isolated right flank – the 3rd Brigade, Rangers and light infantry still sheltering in the orchard north of Spotswood Middle Brook. While the Highlanders of the 42nd Regiment remained in place to cover the withdrawal,

14304-600: The junction with the road north to Foreman's Mill at around 09:30. Lee went forward with Wayne to reconnoiter Monmouth Court House, where they discovered the British rearguard. Estimating the British strength at some 2,000 men, Lee decided on a plan to hook round to their rear. He left Wayne with orders to fix the rearguard in place and returned to the rest of the vanguard to lead it on a left flanking maneuver. Lee's confidence crept into reports back to Washington that implied "the certainty of success." After Lee departed, Butler's detachment exchanged fire with mounted troops screening

14453-462: The left – they passed the Point of Woods, oblivious to the Continentals concealed in them. Wayne's troops inflicted up to forty casualties. The Guards reacted as they were trained and with the support of the dragoons and some of the Grenadiers, crashed into the Americans at the charge. Within ten minutes, Wayne's three battalions were being chased back to the bridge. The rest of the Grenadiers, meanwhile, continued to advance on Lee's position, pushing

14602-428: The main army. By this time Lee, having realized Lafayette's force was more significant than he first thought, had changed his mind and requested command of it. Washington ordered Lee to take Scott's former brigade and the brigade of Brigadier General James Varnum , link up with Lafayette in Englishtown and take command of all advance forces. Greene took over command of Lee's wing of the main body. By June 27, Lafayette

14751-441: The main body came up in support. With his aides out of action, Lee pressed whomever he could find into service as messengers to organize the withdrawal. It was during this period that he sent the army auditor, Major John Clark , to Washington with news of the retreat. But Washington was by now aware, having learned from Lee's troops who had already crossed the ravine. The main body had reached Englishtown at 10:00, and by noon it

14900-503: The main body. Clinton disengaged when he found Washington in an unassailable defensive position and resumed the march to Sandy Hook. Clinton had divided his army into two divisions for the march from Philadelphia; most of the combat troops were concentrated in the first division, while the second comprised most of the heavy transport of a 1,500-wagon baggage train. The British were harassed by increasingly strong American forces as they traversed New Jersey, and by June 27, 1778, Lee's vanguard

15049-418: The militia near a bridge over a ravine and watch the Rangers withdraw. The bridge was on the Englishtown–Monmouth Court House road and spanned the Spotswood Middle Brook, one of three ravines bordered by marshy wetlands or 'morasses' that cut through what would soon become a battlefield. Other than by bridge, the ravines were negotiable with difficulty by infantry and not at all by artillery; any unit cut off on

15198-478: The most aggressive of the remainder wanted to avoid a major engagement; Brigadier General Anthony Wayne suggested the dispatch of 2,500–3,000 additional troops to reinforce Maxwell and Dickinson that would enable them, with a third of the army, to make "an Impression in force." In the end, a compromise was agreed in which 1,500 picked men would reinforce the vanguard to "act as occasion may serve." To Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Hamilton , who attended as an aide,

15347-411: The next morning. On June 29, Washington withdrew his army to Englishtown, where they rested the next day. The British were in a strong position near Middletown, and their route to Sandy Hook was secure. They completed the march largely untroubled by a militia that considered the threat to have passed and had melted away to tend to crops. The last British troops embarked on naval transports on July 6, and

15496-514: The next two nights. The bulk of his force, the first division, was deployed on the Allentown road, covering the second division in the village. The revolution had precipitated a vicious civil war in Monmouth County that did credit to neither side and which would continue after the armies had departed. It was fought between Patriots , who sided with the rebellion, and Loyalists , who remained loyal to Great Britain and even formed units, such as

15645-448: The night within one mile (two kilometers) of each other, the closest British troops at Ker's House. After Clinton's forces withdrew, American troops began to plunder British corpses in search of valuables, leading to several American soldiers ransacking nearby homes occupied by civilians who had fled there to escape the battle. When news of this reached Washington, he ordered the packs of soldiers suspected of looting to be searched. While

15794-442: The north end of the hedgerow. At 16:30, Washington learned of 3rd Brigade's withdrawal and launched the first American offensive action in six hours. He ordered two battalions of picked men "to go and see what [you] could do with the enemy's right wing." Only one battalion some 350 strong led by Colonel Joseph Cilley actually made it into action. Cilley made good use of cover along the Spotswood North Brook to close with and engage

15943-421: The northeast. He accompanied the first division, which comprised some 10,000 troops under the command of Lieutenant General Charles Lord Cornwallis . The second division, commanded by Lieutenant General Wilhelm von Knyphausen , comprised just over 9,000 personnel, of which over 7,500 were combatants. This division contained the bulk of the slow-moving heavy transport of the 1,500-wagon baggage train. The march

16092-509: The original inhabitants were the Lenape , who lived in and along the cliffs and creeks of Atlantic Highlands. The Lenape traded with the Europeans and sold a group of English settlers an area that covered the entire peninsula that was named Portland Poynt. The area was laid out with 10 lots in 1667, making them the first European residents of present-day Atlantic Highlands. Colonists convened

16241-432: The population were under the age of 18, 5.5% from 18 to 24, 24.9% from 25 to 44, 34.4% from 45 to 64, and 15.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 45.0 years. For every 100 females, the population had 95.2 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older there were 94.2 males. The Census Bureau's 2006–2010 American Community Survey showed that (in 2010 inflation-adjusted dollars) median household income

16390-408: The population. There were 1,969 households, out of which 26.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.7% were married couples living together, 9.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.1% were non-families. 29.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and

16539-418: The population. Of the 1,870 households, 25.5% had children under the age of 18; 51.9% were married couples living together; 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present and 36.6% were non-families. Of all households, 30.4% were made up of individuals and 11.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.96. 19.6% of

16688-472: The rank and file and went unenforced by the officers. British and Hessian soldiers acting out of frustration and anger, and Loyalists acting out of rage and vengeance, committed numerous acts of vandalism, looting and arson. By the time Clinton resumed the march on June 28, thirteen of the village's near two dozen buildings had been destroyed, all of them Patriot owned. Washington learned the British were evacuating Philadelphia on June 17. He immediately convened

16837-510: The rearguard, prompting the British to begin withdrawing to the northeast, towards the main column. In the subsequent pursuit, Wayne repulsed a charge by British dragoons and launched a feint against the British infantry, prompting the rearguard to halt and form up on a hill at the junction of the Middletown and Shrewsbury roads. Meanwhile, because Lee was leading the rest of the vanguard himself, he neglected to provide Scott and Maxwell with

16986-423: The region runs alongside Lower New York Bay . In Ocean County, long stretches of barrier islands make major harbors impractical, but the area has drawn much attention for its many sailing programs. The biggest source of income in the shore region comes from the tourism industry with makes up 85% of employment in the area it is a vital source of income for many families and local businesses the employment growth in

17135-428: The remainder fell back across the brook to join the Grenadiers at the hedgerow. Around 15:45, while the withdrawal was in progress, Greene arrived with Woodford's brigade at Combs Hill overlooking the British left flank and opened fire with his artillery. Clinton was forced to withdraw his own artillery, bringing the cannonade with Washington's guns on Perrine's Hill to an end, and move the Grenadiers to sheltered ground at

17284-462: The rest of the vanguard. Once the vanguard was concentrated at the bridge, Lee replaced Grayson with Wayne to command the approximately 550-man lead element, which comprised detachments led by Colonel Richard Butler , Colonel Henry Jackson and Grayson (returned to the command of his original composite battalion of Virginians), supported by four artillery. The vanguard advanced along the Englishtown road towards Monmouth Court House until it reached

17433-512: The rest of the year, and in December he withdrew to winter quarters at Valley Forge , despite the desire of Congress that he continue campaigning. In comparison, his subordinate General Horatio Gates had won major victories in September and October at the Battles of Saratoga . Washington was criticized in some quarters within the army and Congress for relying on a Fabian strategy to wear

17582-432: The retreat. Lee realized that a knoll in front of his lines would give the British, now deployed from column into line formation, command of the ground and render his position untenable. With no knowledge of the main body's whereabouts and believing he had little choice, Lee decided to fall back farther, across the Spotswood Middle Brook bridge. He believed he would be able to hold the British there from Perrine's Hill until

17731-471: The right, Grenadiers on the left and the guns of the Royal Artillery between them, while a regiment of dragoons ranged about them. The infantry of the 3rd and 4th Brigades followed in line, while the 5th Brigade remained in reserve at Monmouth Court House. The Queen's Rangers and the infantry of the rearguard operated on the British right flank. To the rear, a brigade of Hessian grenadiers remained in

17880-467: The twelve officers who attended all recommended varying degrees of caution. Lee argued that a victory would be of little benefit while a defeat would do irrevocable damage to the revolutionary cause. He preferred not to risk the Continental Army against a professional, well-trained enemy until French intervention swayed the odds in the Americans' favor and proposed that Clinton should be allowed to proceed to New York unmolested. Four other generals agreed. Even

18029-420: The twelve responses, all agreed it was vital that, whatever course was chosen, the army had to perform well if public support for the revolution was to be maintained after the disappointments of the previous year. Most generals supported one or other of the offensive options, but Washington sided with the minority, among them Steuben, who argued the Continental Army still needed improvement at Valley Forge before it

18178-404: The two divisions to follow separate routes and still remain within supporting distance of each other. Knyphausen's second division led the twelve-mile (nineteen-kilometer) column on the road towards Monmouth Court House (modern-day Freehold ). Cornwallis followed, Guards and Grenadiers at the rear, putting his combat-heavy division between the baggage train and the likely direction of attack. At

18327-516: The vanguard gave Washington enough time to deploy the main body in a strong defensive position, against which British efforts to press the vanguard foundered. The infantry battle gave way to a two-hour artillery duel, during which Clinton began to disengage. The duel ended when a Continental brigade established artillery on a hill overlooking the British lines, forcing Clinton to withdraw his guns. Washington launched two small-unit attacks on Clinton's infantry as they withdrew, inflicting heavy casualties on

18476-448: The vanguard time to close the distance. Grayson did not depart Englishtown until 06:00, an hour after news arrived that Clinton was on the move. Both vanguard and main body broke camp immediately, and both were slow to move; the vanguard was delayed when brigades formed up in the wrong march order and the main body was slowed by its artillery train. At 07:00, Lee rode ahead to scout the situation for himself. Following some confusion when

18625-470: The vicinity of Ker's house with a sizeable force by noon, he was unable to exercise command and control of it as a unified organization. As disorganized as the retreat was for Lee, at unit level it was generally conducted with a discipline that did credit to Steuben's training. The Americans suffered only some one dozen casualties as they fell back, an indication of how little major fighting there was; there were no organized volleys by infantry muskets , and only

18774-438: The vote (1,287 cast), ahead of Democrat Barack Obama with 47.5% (1,242 votes) and other candidates with 1.8% (48 votes), among the 2,612 ballots cast by the borough's 3,454 registered voters, for a turnout of 75.6%. In the 2004 presidential election , Republican George W. Bush received 50.7% of the vote (1,350 ballots cast), outpolling Democrat John Kerry with 46.3% (1,232 votes) and other candidates with 0.9% (30 votes), among

18923-491: The water in tent colonies. An outdoor amphitheater was created with a large seating capacity and outstanding acoustics. An indoor auditorium was built, which was utilized for entertaining visitors at the camp meetings. In 1887, Atlantic Highlands was incorporated as a borough, containing 1.2 square miles (3.1 km ) of land bordering on the Raritan Bay. Major construction occurred from the 1880s through 1900. It included hotels, cottages, rooming houses, and private homes. A pier

19072-481: The winter at Valley Forge rebuilding his army and defending his position against political enemies who favored his replacement as commander-in-chief. This included Major General Horatio Gates, whose political alliance with the “Conway Cabal” threatened General Washington's status as commander-in-chief. In February 1778, the French-American Treaty of Alliance tilted the strategic balance in favor of

19221-411: The wrong side or pinned up against them would find itself in grave danger. When Lee caught up with Grayson shortly after the skirmish, Dickinson, who still believed the British occupied Monmouth Court House in force, strongly urged him not to venture across the brook. With intelligence about British activity still contradictory, Lee lost an hour at the bridge. He did not advance until Lafayette arrived with

19370-437: The year including a Summer Concert Series in the harbor, youth programs such as basketball in the winter and soccer in the fall. Atlantic Highlands has a large park system with eight borough-owned parks and two county operated parks. One of larger parks is Lenape Woods. It is nestled among tall trees and steep slopes, Lenape Woods offers approximately 51 acres (210,000 m ) of natural woodlands and freshwater wetlands that are

19519-427: Was $ 82,127 (with a margin of error of +/− $ 10,511) and the median family income was $ 100,117 (+/− $ 16,562). Males had a median income of $ 73,021 (+/− $ 18,808) versus $ 51,207 (+/− $ 6,155) for females. The per capita income for the borough was $ 41,785 (+/− $ 4,864). About 2.5% of families and 5.3% of the population were below the poverty line , including 6.9% of those under age 18 and 2.0% of those age 65 or over. As of

19668-463: Was a conspiracy to take command of the army from him. Over a winter in which supplies were scarce and deaths from disease accounted for 15 per cent of his force, he battled to keep both the army from dissolution and his position as its commander-in-chief. He successfully waged a "clever campaign of political infighting" in which he presented a public image of disinterest, a man without guile or ambition, while working through his allies in Congress and

19817-456: Was a match for the tactical skill of the British Army. The situation improved measurably with the arrival in March 1778 of Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben , to whom Washington gave the responsibility for training the army. With the commander-in-chief's enthusiastic support, Steuben implemented a uniform standard of drill where none had previously existed and worked the army hard, transforming it into

19966-569: Was at Richmond Mills, a little over two miles (three kilometers) to the south of Monmouth Court House. Dickinson's 1,200 or more militia were on Clinton's flanks, with a significant concentration about two miles (three kilometers) west of Monmouth Court House. On the afternoon of June 27, Washington conferred with the vanguard's senior officers at Englishtown but did not offer a battle plan. Lee believed he had full discretion on whether and how to attack and called his own war council after Washington left. He intended to advance as soon as he knew Clinton

20115-567: Was being probed, Clinton ordered Cornwallis to march the first division back towards Monmouth Court House. He believed Washington's main body was not close enough to come up in support and that the terrain would make it difficult for Lee to maneuver. He intended to do more than simply defend his baggage train; he thought the vanguard was vulnerable, and saw an opportunity to turn its right flank, just as Lee had feared, and destroy it. After pausing at Monmouth Court House, Clinton began to push westwards. He formed his best troops into two columns, Guards on

20264-583: Was built extending well into the bay to accommodate steamboats from New York City. The next twenty years saw rapid development within the community. A water and sewer system was constructed, cottages were erected, and the road system was completed. During this period of development a fire department was organized. A number of churches saw their beginning in the 1880s: the Central Baptist, First Presbyterian, Saint Agnes Roman Catholic, First Methodist, and Saint Paul Baptist Church. Atlantic Highlands became

20413-653: Was built from 1938 through 1940 with municipal, state, and federal funds. It is the largest on the East Coast, home to 715 craft, including high-speed ferry service to New York City, which was introduced in 1986. In 1966, the Central Railroad of New Jersey pier was destroyed by fire. Its rail route is now used by the Henry Hudson Trail . The bungalows on the East Side of the borough, which in

20562-450: Was buoyed by what he saw of Cilley's attack, and although he lacked specific intelligence about what the British were doing, the fact that their artillery had gone quiet suggested they might be vulnerable. He ordered Wayne to conduct an opportunistic advance with a detachment of Pennsylvanians. Wayne's request for three brigades, some 1,300 men, was denied, and at 16:45 he crossed the bridge over Spotswood Middle Brook with just 400 troops of

20711-627: Was concerned that the British would slip away overland through New Jersey. The 2nd New Jersey Regiment , which had been conducting operations against British foragers and sympathizers in New Jersey since March, was a valuable source of intelligence, and by the end of the month a British evacuation by land looked increasingly likely. Washington reinforced the regiment with the rest of the New Jersey Brigade, commanded by Brigadier General William Maxwell , with orders to obstruct and harry British activities. The Continentals were to co-operate with

20860-429: Was conducted in short segments during a heat wave in which temperatures frequently exceeded 90 °F (32 °C), which further slowed progress and caused casualties from heat exhaustion. The slow progress did not concern Clinton. He was confident his troops were more than a match for Washington's forces and felt that a major battle would compensate for the humiliation of having to abandon Philadelphia and might even deal

21009-469: Was disappointed with Lee and rode off to organize the battle he felt his subordinate should have given. Lee followed at a distance, bewildered and believing he had been relieved of command. With the main body still arriving and the British no more than one-half mile (one kilometer) away, Washington began to rally the vanguard to set up the very defenses Lee had been attempting to organize. The commander-in-chief directed Wayne to take three battalions and form

21158-554: Was maneuvering to exploit the opportunity to weaken a long-term rival. Following the Franco-American alliance of February 1778, French forces were sent to North America to support the revolutionaries. This led to the Anglo-French War (1778–1783) , which Spain joined on the French side in 1779. With the rest of Europe moving towards a hostile neutrality , Great Britain would come under further pressure in 1780 when

21307-567: Was on the move, in the hope of catching the British rearguard when it was most vulnerable. In the absence of any intelligence about Clinton's intentions or the terrain, Lee believed it would be useless to form a precise plan of his own; he told his commanders only to be ready for action at short notice and follow his orders. In response to a written order received from Washington in the early hours of June 28, Lee ordered Colonel William Grayson to take 700 men forward. They were to watch for any British move and, if one did occur, try to slow them to give

21456-424: Was one of the rare occasions on which it retained possession of a battlefield. It had proven itself to be much improved after the training it underwent over the winter, and the professional conduct of the American troops during the battle was widely noted by the British. Washington was able to present the battle as a triumph, and he was voted a formal thanks by Congress to honor "the important victory of Monmouth over

21605-561: Was ready to take on the British. After news of the Franco-American alliance arrived and as British activity in and around Philadelphia increased, Washington met with ten of his generals on May 8 to further discuss plans. This time they unanimously favored the defensive option and waiting until the British intentions became clearer. In May, it became evident that the British were preparing to evacuate Philadelphia, but Washington still had no detailed knowledge of Clinton's intentions and

21754-412: Was safely back in the fold with what was now Lee's vanguard of some 4,500 troops at Englishtown, six miles (ten kilometers) from the British at Monmouth Court House. Washington was with the main body of just over 7,800 troops and the bulk of the artillery at Manalapan Bridge , four miles (six kilometers) behind Lee. Morgan's light infantry, now increased to 800 men by the addition of a militia detachment,

21903-429: Was still some four miles (six kilometers) from Monmouth Court House. Without any recent news from Lee, Washington had no reason to be concerned. At Tennent's Meeting House, some two miles (three kilometers) east of Englishtown, he ordered Greene to take Brigadier General William Woodford 's brigade of some 550 men and 4 artillery pieces south then east to cover the right flank. The rest of the main body continued east along

22052-448: Was tactically inconclusive and strategically irrelevant; neither side landed the blow they hoped to on the other, Washington's army remained an effective force in the field, and the British redeployed successfully to New York. Both sides sustained considerable casualties, though the majority were from heat-related illness and exhaustion rather than combat. The Continental Army is estimated to have inflicted more losses than it received, and it

22201-426: Was within striking distance. When the British left Monmouth Court House the next day, Lee attempted to isolate and defeat their rearguard. The attack was poorly coordinated, and the Americans were quickly outnumbered when the British first division returned. Some of Lee's units began to withdraw, leading to a breakdown in command and control and forcing Lee to order a general retreat. A fiercely fought rearguard action by

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