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Re-enactment of
The Affair at Cedar Bridge
Held Annually on December 27

Cedar Bridge Tavern in Barnegat NJ
Cedar Bridge Tavern today

The Affair at Cedar Bridge is commemorated annually, across from the old Cedar Bridge Tavern, now owned by the County of Ocean.

 

The Loyalists, headed by captain John Bacon
The Loyalists, headed by Captain John Bacon (in blue)

The skirmish that took place was actually a "civil war" between a band of American Loyalists, headed by Captain John Bacon, a renowned privateer and Pinelands bandit; and American Patriots. The last of the Loyalists were "refugees" hiding out in the Pine Barrens near Manahawkin. It is considered the last skirmish of the Revolutionary War. It is definitely the last battle of the `civil' war that raged in New Jersey during the Revolution. After official hostilities waned, the frontier in the pinelands continued to serve as a safe haven for Loyalist `refugees'. The most notorious Loyalist, Capt. John Bacon and his band had a hide out in the pines near Manahawkin but by December 1782 the militia was close at hand.

 


The Patriots, headed by Captain Richard Shreve
The Patriots - Burlington Militia

The Burlington Militia of the Patriot forces was led by Captain Richard Shreve. On Christmas Day, he left Burlington with several horsement, his sights set on Captain Bacon. After searching for 2 days, they stopped at Cedar Bridge Tavern on their way back to Burlington. Captain Bacon was headed to the same watering hole with his men when he saw that the Militia was already there, so barricaded Cedar Bridge and began their befense. In the musket fire, Captain Shreve's uncle escaped into the woods. Shreve's group began a full-scale attack and almost overcame Bacon and his men, but a group of locals unexpectedly came to Bacon's assistance. In the confusion, Bacon escaped, and the locals surrendered to the Militia. A few months later, Bacon, who had a bounty of 50 Sterling on his head, was found in a tavern by Captian Stewart, where he was mortally wounded, and his body was desecrated.





Tim Hart, Historian

Tim Hart, a well-known local expert on the history of the region, was the Master of Ceremonies. Normally a quiet-spoken man, Tim told the story with contagious enthusiasm and wit. Tim is the Historian of Ocean County's Historical Society.


Mayor Jeff Melchoindo of Barnegat Township

Barnegat Township Mayor Jeff Melchoindo presented Mr. Hart with a proclamation designating December 27 as "CEDAR BRIDGE DAY."

The re-enactment is held each year, weather permitting, on December 27 at 2PM. The site is located on Cedar Bridge Road in Barnegat, which runs between Old Halfway Road (off Route 72) and Warren Grove Road which is between Route 539 and Route 72. Call 609-971-3085 for more information.

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The Pine Barrens is becoming a popular tourist destination. It offers history, nature, boating, camping, fishing, swimming, and most of all, peace and tranquility. It's important to families who live here, whether for a few years or many generations, that our peace and tranquility be preserved.A local lawyer or doctor won't look any different than his neighbor who works the land. Thousand dollar suits aren't what impress people of the Pines - taking care of nature and fellow man is what matters. To that end, it is important for you to know that as a visitor to our precious Pine Barrens, you should show respect for the flora and fauna, for the historical buildings or their remains, and show respect for the "locals". Walk and drive gently. Treat our Pine Barrens as you would want a visitor to treat your own home town - and your own family. Thank you.

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