Revolutionary History, Culture & Cuisine in Union County, New Jersey! Travels with Darley Explores New Jersey’s American Revolution History
Explore Union County, New Jersey’s Revolutionary history, culture, and cuisine with Darley Newman in this episode of Travels with Darley, part of New Jersey’s Revolutionary Road to 250 — the statewide initiative leading up to the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
In this episode, Darley travels through Union County to discover Revolutionary War battle sites, historic homes, cultural landmarks, and local dining spots that connect the past with the present. Along the way, she meets historians, preservationists, community leaders, and chefs who are keeping New Jersey’s stories alive today.
Even better — these are places you can visit yourself while planning a Revolutionary road trip through New Jersey.
Featured Locations in Union County, New Jersey
Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church — Union, NJ
Darley visits Connecticut Farms Presbyterian Church, where she meets Reverend Christian Iosso at this important Revolutionary War site connected to the Battle of Connecticut Farms. The church played a pivotal role during the war and remains a powerful reminder of how faith, community, and conflict intersected during the fight for independence.
Caldwell Parsonage & Union Township Historical Society — Union, NJ
With David Arminio of the Union Township Historical Society, Darley explores how local landmarks and everyday citizens helped shape Union Township during the Revolutionary era.
Historian Jonathan Mercantini of Kean University also shares insights into the critical role women played during the American Revolution, highlighting stories that are often overlooked in traditional narratives.
Boxwood Hall State Historic Site — Elizabeth, NJ
At Boxwood Hall, Darley meets Katherine Craig to explore this elegant 18th-century home associated with George Washington. Once home to a prominent Elizabeth family, the site offers a glimpse into the lives of influential figures during the Revolutionary period and the city's important role in early American history.
Liberty Hall Museum — Union, NJ
Darley visits Liberty Hall Museum, the home of the powerful Livingston family, one of New Jersey’s most influential political dynasties. With Rachael Goldberg, she explores how the Livingston family helped shape New Jersey’s leadership during the Revolutionary War and the founding of the United States.
Galloping Hill Inn — Union, NJ
History and food come together at Galloping Hill Inn, where Darley meets owner George Thomas to try a classic New Jersey hot dog. This historic roadside landmark sits along routes once traveled during the Revolutionary era and continues to serve locals and travelers today.
The Cannonball House | Springfield Historical Society — Springfield, NJ
Darley visits the famous Cannonball House with Linda Jurczak of the Springfield Historical Society. The home still bears the marks of the Battle of Springfield, including a cannonball embedded in the structure — a vivid reminder of the conflict that once swept through this quiet neighborhood.
Local Culture & Cuisine in Elizabeth, New Jersey
Union County’s story isn’t only about the 18th century. Darley also explores modern culture and cuisine that reflect the diversity of the region today.
First Republic — Elizabeth, NJ
Darley experiences the vibrant flavors of Haitian cuisine and local art at First Republic, where she meets small business owner Stanley Neron and artist Kervin Andre. This spot highlights how food and creativity continue to shape Elizabeth’s cultural landscape.
Valenca Restaurant — Elizabeth, NJ
At Valenca Restaurant, Darley dives into the rich traditions of Portuguese cuisine, reflecting Elizabeth’s deep Portuguese-American heritage in one of New Jersey’s oldest and most diverse cities.
Historic Landmarks Beyond the Revolution
Shady Rest Country Club — Scotch Plains, NJ
Darley meets Susan Hamlette-Mayers and Tom Donatelli at Shady Rest Country Club, the first African American–owned and operated country club in the United States. Through oral histories and community storytelling, the site preserves an essential chapter of American history.
Stage House Tavern — Scotch Plains, NJ
Once a stagecoach stop along Revolutionary travel routes, Stage House Tavern remains a lively gathering place today. Darley meets Dustin Noel to learn how taverns once served as vital hubs for travelers, soldiers, and local communities.
Drake House | Historical Society of Plainfield — Plainfield, NJ
At the Drake House, Darley meets Nancy Piwowar of the Historical Society of Plainfield to explore how local historians preserve the stories of everyday citizens whose lives were shaped by the American Revolution.
Plan Your Own Revolutionary Road Trip in New Jersey
Union County offers a unique opportunity to explore Revolutionary War history alongside modern cultural experiences and diverse cuisine. From battle sites and historic homes to community museums and local restaurants, these destinations bring the story of America’s founding to life.
As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, there’s no better time to follow New Jersey’s Revolutionary Road to 250 and discover the people, places, and stories that shaped America.
⭐ Start planning your own Revolutionary Road Trip through Union County, New Jersey — and experience history where it happened.