Reimagining Princeton – William Clarke Apple Orchard
Join Us in Recreating the Battle at the Apple Orchard.
The Princeton Battlefield Society is proud to launch a visionary restoration project with the American Battlefield Trust and the State – a William Clarke commemorative apple orchard – as part of the Reimagining Princeton initiative. Rooted in historical research and recent archaeological discoveries, this project re-creates a “thick planted orchard” that once graced the farm of William Clarke, a Quaker. This was the location of the initial encounter of British and Patriot forces on January 3, 1777.
We invite you to support this historic undertaking and help us honor the legacy of the past while cultivating an educational and inspiring experience for generations to come.
About the Project
The Princeton Battlefield Society is proud to lead a historically significant restoration effort: the re-establishment of an 18th-century apple orchard that once thrived on the William Clarke Farm, a core component of the Princeton Battlefield landscape.
Historical accounts and recent archaeological findings have confirmed that this area was home to a cultivated orchard enclosed by a perimeter fence—a hallmark of mid-1700s farmsteads in New Jersey. This orchard was present at the time of the Battle of Princeton. It was a witness to the start of one of the pivotal early victories of the American Revolution.
Now, thanks to new research, we have the opportunity to re-create the orchard as it may have looked in 1777, providing both a tangible connection to the past and a living tribute to the people who shaped it.
“They rushed thro’ Will Clark’s orchard among the naked trees;
With horse and foot they hamnmered hard; their bullets sang like bees;
And Mercer fell, and Haslet fell;
The bayonets cut us up like hell;
The chain-shot mowed a bloody path beneath the twisted trees.”
The re-created orchard will commemorate the Battle of Princeton to include:
Cover 1/2 acre (90′ x 70′), reestablishing the historic footprint based on period maps.
Feature carefully selected apple trees, with a documented presence in colonial-era New Jersey.
Be fenced, as it was in 1777.
Reflect the character of the original Clarke Farm orchard.
Apple Varieties to Be Planted:
These apples were chosen for their historic relevance, flavor, and continued (though limited) cultivation:
- Harrison – A renowned cider apple, historically cultivated in New Jersey and valued for its rich flavor.
- Winesap – A versatile and aromatic apple with deep roots in colonial orchards.
- Red Russet – Known for its unique skin and firm texture; a colonial favorite.
- Yellow Bellflower – A fragrant, bright yellow apple ideal for cooking and fresh eating.
Together, these trees will serve as a living classroom and a powerful interpretive feature on the battlefield, helping visitors visualize the agrarian landscape that shaped the lives—and the fight—of early Americans.
Your support will directly fund the restoration of this historic orchard. With your donation, we will prepare the land, plant authentic period-appropriate apple trees, and build protective fencing to ensure the orchard thrives for generations to come. Together, we can preserve this living piece of our heritage.
Why it Matters
- Preserving a Revolutionary War landmark
- Supporting educational programs and tours
- Enhancing the battlefield’s historical interpretation
- Creating a lasting tribute to those who shaped our nation
Make a Donation Online
Your generosity helps ensure that the stories of Princeton’s past continue to inspire, educate, and unite us. Together, let’s reimagine and restore this hallowed ground.
Additional Ways to Give
Matching Gifts
A matching gift from your employer. Many companies offer matching gift programs. Ask your employer. Complete the required
forms and mail to the Princeton Battlefield Society. We will complete the form and submit it—check with your HR department to double your impact!
Gifts of Stock or Securities
Donating appreciated securities can provide tax advantages while supporting our mission. Contact us at outreach.pbs1777@gmail.com.
Honor & Memorial Gifts
Make a gift in memory of a loved one or honor of a special occasion. We gratefully accept such donations and will send condolences to the family or best wishes to the individual.
Planned Giving
You can protect the Nation’s past, present, and future and the heritage of the Battle of Princeton by remembering the Princeton Battlefield Society in your will or estate plan.
