James Caldwell (clergyman) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Caldwell
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Artist's depiction of Caldwell at the Battle of Springfield
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| Born | April 1734 |
| Died | November 24, 1781 (aged 47) |
| Burial place | First Presbyterian Church of Elizabeth |
| Occupation | Clergyman |
| Spouse(s) | Hannah Ogden |
| Children | 9 children |
| Parent(s) | John Caldwell and Margaret Caldwell |
James Caldwell (born April 1734 – died November 24, 1781) was an important religious leader during the American Revolution. He was a Presbyterian minister, known for his strong support of the American fight for independence. People even called him the "Fighting Parson" because of his active role in the war.
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A Life of Service
James Caldwell was born in April 1734 in a place called Cub Creek, in Charlotte County, Virginia. He was one of nine children of John and Margaret Caldwell. His family were Scots-Irish settlers, meaning they came from Scotland and Ireland. Their ancestors were Huguenots, who were French Protestants who had to leave France.
James went to the College of New Jersey, which is now known as Princeton University. He graduated in 1759. Even though he inherited a large piece of land, he chose to become a pastor. He became the leader of the Presbyterian Church in Elizabethtown, New Jersey.
The "Fighting Parson"
James Caldwell was a strong supporter of the Patriots. The Patriots were the American colonists who wanted independence from Great Britain. Because of his active role in the war, he earned the nickname "Fighting Parson."
In 1780, his church and his home were burned down. This was done by Loyalists, who were colonists who stayed loyal to the British king.
A Family's Sacrifice
While Caldwell was serving with the American army in Morristown, a sad event happened. His wife, Hannah, was shot during the Battle of Connecticut Farms. This battle took place in what is now Union Township. The exact reasons for her death are still debated.
This event was so important that Union County remembers it on their county seal even today.
His Final Battle
James Caldwell himself fought in the Battle of Springfield. He was killed on November 24, 1781, in Elizabethtown, New Jersey. An American guard shot him because Caldwell refused to let a package be inspected.
After his death, his nine children were left without parents. Friends of the family stepped in and helped raise them.
Remembering James Caldwell
- A monument honoring James Caldwell was built in Elizabeth, New Jersey in 1846.
- Three towns in New Jersey are named after him. They are often called The Caldwells:
- Caldwell Township, New Jersey
Schools Named After Him
Several schools also carry his name or his wife's name:
- James Caldwell High School in West Caldwell
- James Caldwell Elementary School in Springfield, New Jersey
- Hannah Caldwell Elementary School in Union, New Jersey, which is named after his wife
- Caldwell University (formerly Caldwell College) in Caldwell, New Jersey, also carries his name.
