NJ, USA
Capture of Richard Stockton
November 30, 1776
Richard Stockton, Princeton lawyer and signer of the Declaration of Independence, was captured by Loyalist forces in late November 1776 while sheltering at a friend's home in Monmouth County. He was turned over to the British and imprisoned in New York under conditions that damaged his health permanently.
Stockton signed a declaration of loyalty to the Crown to secure his release — an act that shadowed his reputation for the rest of his life. Meanwhile, British and Hessian troops occupied his estate, Morven, destroying his library and papers. His wife Annis had buried some valuables before fleeing, preserving a portion of the family's possessions. Stockton's experience embodied the personal costs of signing the Declaration.
People Involved
Princeton lawyer and signer of the Declaration of Independence who was captured by the British in late 1776 and imprisoned under harsh conditions. Stockton signed a loyalty oath to secure his release, a decision that haunted his reputation.
Wife of Richard Stockton and accomplished poet who buried the family's papers and valuables before British forces arrived at their estate, Morven. Her wartime poetry celebrated American independence and mourned its costs.