The Christmas Miracle of 1776
Posted December 23, 2008

New Jersey’s weather this week has been frigid, but save the occasional power outage, the vast majority of us enjoys warmth in our cozy homes, protected from the elements and experiencing winter’s scape through frosted windows. The scenario was much different 232 years ago, however, when colonial soldiers launched the surprise attack on the British in the pivotal Battle of Trenton, waged on December 26, 1776.

The previous months had been difficult ones for colonial soldiers, with a defeat in White Plains, NY and the loss of both Fort Washington, NY and Fort Lee, NJ. The Continental Army, led by General George Washington, had been retreating across New Jersey, and by early December, the troops had made their way across the Delaware River into Pennsylvania.

Meanwhile, no doubt encouraged by recent victories, British and Hessian troops, numbering approximately 1,400 and under the command of Hessian colonel Johann Gottleib Rall, had stationed themselves in Trenton. With Christmas only days away, an imminent American victory over well-trained British and Hessian forces seemed highly unlikely if not downright impossible.

Yet, this is exactly what Washington and his men achieved on the morning of December 26, 1776. As the British welcomed Christmas night, Washington and his 2,400 men – part of a larger Continental contingent of 6,000 – began their stealthy advance across the icy Delaware. Dangerous conditions prevented the majority of the contingent from crossing the river, leaving Washington’s forces alone to face the impending battle.

As dawn approached, the American troops surprised the British forces occupying Trenton. In less than an hour, Washington’s army met with victory. Thirty officers, 918 prisoners, 1,000 muskets and rifles, six cannons, six wagons, and 40 horses were captured. Colonel Rall lay mortally wounded, dying a day later. Not a single patriot was killed in the conflict. (Source: New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry)

The Battle of Trenton signaled a turning point in America’s War for Independence, re-inspiring after multiple defeats the brave men fighting for freedom’s cause. The British, too, recognized the battle’s importance, with King George III’s colonial secretary of state, Lord Germain, later stating, “… all our hopes were blasted by that unhappy affair at Trenton.”

The lessons from the Battle of Trenton are many, but as we close 2008 and look to 2009, the battle holds three important messages.

First, victory is rarely easily achieved. Sometimes, even the very path to the scene of battle is littered with difficulties. And many who start out strong in the fight often falter along the way.

Second, crushing defeats and seemingly insurmountable setbacks will invariable occur as we continue to fight for the family in New Jersey. But setbacks are not final, and miraculous victories are still the reward of those who keep the faith and persevere.

Third, when victories do materialize, while celebration is warranted, we must never cease our eternal vigilance.

As we celebrate this Holy Season, the NJFPC wishes you and your family a blessed Christmas, and we pledge to continue to do battle on behalf of the family here in New Jersey.

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