Trenton Battle Monument 🇺🇸

Located in Trenton, New Jersey, the Trenton Battle Monument stands at 'Five Points,' the historic vantage point where American artillery dominated the streets during the pivotal December 26, 1776 Battle of Trenton. Designed by John H. Duncan—the architect behind Grant's Tomb—this early Beaux-Arts granite structure rises 150 feet to commemorate General George Washington’s Revolutionary War triumph.

Today, it anchors the northern end of the 'Ten Crucial Days' heritage corridor and serves as a center for local annual reenactments and community programs. When you visit, you will marvel at the commanding 13-foot bronze statue of Washington atop the fluted Roman-Doric column, pointing toward the battlefield. Guarding the entrance are bronze statues of Continental soldiers Private John Russell and Private Blair McClenachan.

Around the pedestal base, explore detailed bronze relief panels depicting crucial historic scenes, including Washington leading his army across the Delaware River and the surrender of Hessian forces. Encircling the top, thirteen electric lights illuminate the night sky to honor the original Thirteen Colonies. Although the historic elevator to the observation platform is no longer operable, standing at the base offers a powerful connection to a turning point in American history.

What to see at Trenton Battle Monument

• 13-foot bronze statue of General George Washington crowning the 150-foot monument
• Detailed bronze relief panels depicting pivotal Revolutionary War scenes
• Entrance statues honoring Private John Russell and Private Blair McClenachan
• Thirteen electric lights encircling the column cap to represent the original colonies
• Historic location at 'Five Points' where Continental artillery held a commanding position

Visiting tips

Because the monument's historic elevator is no longer operable, plan to focus your visit on exploring the ground-level bronze reliefs and entrance statues.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Evening

How to get there & what’s nearby

Trenton Battle Monument is easy to reach on Trenton’s public transport, and pairs naturally with New Jersey State House and Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Trenton travel guide.