Program

Patriot Burials

Subject

Cemetery, People

Location

202 County Rd 539, Tuckerton, NJ 08087, USA

Lat/Long

39.60536, -74.34025

Grant Recipient

NJ Society Sons of the American Revolution

The origins of the American Revolution can be traced back to 1775, when the first shots were fired between colonial and British forces at the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Soon after, the American Colonies declared their independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. As the newly formed United States went to war with Great Britain, hundreds of men across the Thirteen Colonies joined the fight. These men came from different walks of life; some were farmers, others were tradesmen, lawyers, doctors and merchants. Despite their differences they desired the same thing: freedom and independence. Colonial forces faced severe challenges, including lack of supplies and military training however in the face of obstacles they were undeterred. After nearly 8 years the colonies defeated Great Britain and successfully achieved their independence. It is important to remember the lives and sacrifices made by those who fought for American freedom.

With burials as early as circa 1799, the Old Methodist Cemetery in Tuckerton is the final resting place of the community’s early residents. Among those buried here is Revolutionary War Veteran and United States Congressman, Ebenezer Tucker. In addition to Ebenezer, whose service and burial in the Old Methodist Cemetery were confirmed with primary sources, another man—his father, in fact, Reuben Tucker—is believed by many to have served throughout the War in various capacities, possibly even being involved in a “tea party” in Greenwich New Jersey similar to the more famous one that occurred in Boston.