Program

Patriot Burials

Subject

Cemetery, People, Site

Location

254 Lakewood Rd, New Egypt, NJ 08533, USA

Lat/Long

40.082030007929, -74.490717905872

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.

Old Zion Methodist Cemetery is the final resting place of the community’s early residents. Among those buried here is Revolutionary War veteran Thomas Chafey/Chaffy. Thomas served in the New Jersey 1^st Regiment for a three-year stint, beginning in 1780 and ending in 1783. During his pension application it was reported by a fellow soldier that Thomas was there at the defeat of Cornwallis in Yorktown. Thomas passed away in 1823.