The Secret Stash of the Revolutionary War Loyalists in New Jersey

The American Revolutionary War (1775-1783) not only shaped the future of a nation but also led to a myriad of hidden treasures, particularly in places like New Jersey. While the struggle for independence saw the rise of patriot forces, it also created a significant faction of Loyalistsâ€”Americans who remained loyal to the British Crown.

Historical Context

The Loyalist Presence in New Jersey

During the Revolutionary War, New Jersey was not only a battleground but also a significant hub for Loyalist activity. With a population that included a sizable number of Loyalists, New Jersey saw families torn apart by their loyalties. The state became strategically important due to its location between British-held New York and the rebel forces in Pennsylvania.

Loyalists faced persecution from patriots, leading many to relocate, with the most notable emigrating to Canada or other British territories. In New Jersey, several towns, including Elizabeth, Newark, and Bergen County, were known for their Loyalist sentiments.

Loyalist Wealth and Resources

Before the war began, many Loyalists in New Jersey were wealthy landowners, merchants, and influential political figures. They had access to extensive resources, including land and valuable artifacts. As the conflict escalated, some Loyalists chose to bury their wealth to avoid confiscation by patriots. These hidden stashes often included:

Jewelry and precious metals
Currency and paper money
Documents and land deeds
Art and valuable antiques

The prevalence of hidden treasures has led historians and treasure hunters to believe that significant sums from this period remain undiscovered in the soil of New Jersey.

Notable Loyalist Figures

William Franklin

A prominent Loyalist during the Revolutionary War, William Franklin served as the last colonial governor of New Jersey and was notably the son of Benjamin Franklin, a leading patriot. His loyalty to the Crown placed him at odds with many in his family and community. Franklin was a significant figure in establishing Loyalist networks.

Following the war, Franklin fled to England, where he was well-acquainted with the wealth accumulated during his tenure. Reports indicate that he may have buried valuable items in secret locations around New Jersey prior to his departure.

Joseph Stansell

Joseph Stansell, a Loyalist landowner from Middlesex County, was known for his extensive estate and his opposition to the rebellion. Stansell’s home became a refuge for Loyalists during the war. According to local folklore, it is believed he hid substantial assets in a secret location on his property before he fled to Canada.

Other Prominent Loyalists

The presence of Loyalists in New Jersey included various merchant families and political figures. Some noteworthy mentions include:

Captain John Mowry of Somerset County
Henry Ackerly, a significant merchant
Thomas McGowan, who had affiliations with Loyalist brigades

Many of these individuals played crucial roles in establishing Loyalist strongholds and networks within the state, which increased the possibility of hidden treasure caches.

Locations of Interest

Burlington County

Burlington County served as a notable center for Loyalist activity, with its mix of urban and rural landscapes. There are numerous accounts of Loyalists who frequented the area before fleeing the new republic. The southern part of Burlington County, including the town of Moorestown, is believed to be the site of several hidden stashes.

Newark

Newark was a Loyalist stronghold where many meetings of Loyalists took place. The area, rich in agricultural land, made it a prime location for stockpiling goods. The taverns of Newark are said to have been meeting points for Loyalists, and whispers of hidden treasures in basements and nearby woods have attracted treasure hunters over the centuries.

Elizabethtown (Elizabeth)

Elizabethtown, now known as Elizabeth, played a crucial role during the war. As a bustling town, it was a focal point for both patriots and Loyalists. Historians contend that the area is likely to hide remnants of stashed wealth from Loyalists, especially in places like the old taverns or near the Elizabeth River.

The Search for the Treasure

Historical Expeditions

Over the years, treasure hunters and historians have organized multiple expeditions to uncover the hidden wealth of the Loyalists in New Jersey. Significant expeditions took place in the 1800s and 1900s, characterized by:

Exploration of old Loyalist homes and estates
Use of metal detectors in historically significant areas
Archaeological surveys conducted on suspected sites

Many of these efforts yielded some minor artifacts and coins but fell short of uncovering major treasure troves.

Modern Day Treasure Hunters

In contemporary times, the resurgence of interest in treasure hunting has driven individuals and groups to pursue the hidden Loyalist riches with renewed vigor. Utilizing technology such as ground-penetrating radar and advanced metal detection methods, modern treasure hunters have attempted to ascertain where these treasures might be located.

Additionally, local historical societies have begun collaborating with treasure hunters to conduct carefully controlled digs in areas believed to harbor Loyalist relics, fostering a sense of community interest in the exploration of the past.

Legends and Folklore

Folklore Surrounding the Hidden Treasures

The rich history of Loyalist treasures has given rise to numerous legends and folklore in New Jersey communities. Such narratives are vital in preserving the local culture and attracting adventurers. Some popular legends include:

The lost silver coins of Joseph Stansell, said to be hidden beneath an old oak tree in his estate.
A supposed map left behind by Captain John Mowry detailing his hidden stockpile near the Raritan River.
Stories of Loyalist caches buried underneath old taverns still standing today, their histories intertwined with colonial America.

These tales, while often embellished, serve as motivators for continued searches and excavations, as locals and tourists alike seek adventure in the thrill of the hunt.

Impact of the Legacy

The legacy of New Jersey’s Revolutionary War Loyalists goes beyond just hidden wealth; it shapes the state’s cultural and historical fabric. Their stories, as part of America’s complex past, contribute significantly to discussions about loyalty, heritage, and the fight for freedom.

Preservation Efforts

Archaeological Missions

In an effort to protect historical sites from unchecked treasure hunting, various archaeological missions have aimed to document and preserve Loyalist-related sites throughout New Jersey. These efforts include:

Testing excavation sites where Loyalist homes once stood
Collaboration with local museums to create exhibits linking artifacts to the Revolutionary War
Education programs teaching the importance of historical preservation to the public

The goal is to strike a balance between treasure hunting and preserving New Jersey’s unique heritage.

Community Engagement

Engaging local communities in historical preservation has also proven effective. Events such as â€œLoyalist Days,â€ where residents showcase their townâ€™s Loyalist history, have garnered community interest. These gatherings not only educate but also encourage people to share stories of hidden treasures passed down through generations.

Conclusion: The Legacy of the Loyalists

The search for the secret stash of the Revolutionary War Loyalists in New Jersey symbolizes more than just the quest for material wealth. It underscores the lasting impacts of loyalty, conflict, and division that characterized one of America’s most tumultuous times. As historians continue to unravel the narratives surrounding these Loyalists, the treasures they may have hidden are as much about history’s mystery as they are about the legacies they left behind.

New Jersey remains a rich tapestry of stories, waiting for modern adventurers to delve deeper into its past, illuminating treasures both material and immaterial hidden within its boundaries, revealing the complex history of those who once called it home. With each discovery, the memories of Loyalist patriots are woven further into the stateâ€™s heritage, creating a narrative that captures the essence of conflict and resolution in early America.