Old Tennent Church facts for kids
The Old Tennent Church is a very old Presbyterian church in Manalapan, New Jersey. It's located in a small area called Tennent. This church started way back in 1692. It was very important in helping the Presbyterian faith grow in America.
The building you see today was finished in 1753. It was named after two pastors, John Tennent and his brother William Tennent. There's also a historic cemetery, the Old Tennent Cemetery, right next to the church.
This church is famous for its role in the American Revolutionary War. A big battle, the Battle of Monmouth, happened very close by. The church building was even used as a hospital for injured soldiers during that time.
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History of Old Tennent Church
The Old Tennent Church congregation began in 1692. It was started by a group of Scottish people who came to America. They had left their home country to escape being treated badly for their religious beliefs.
The church building we see today has been standing since 1751. It hasn't changed much over the years. During the Battle of Monmouth on June 28, 1778, the church became a hospital. It helped care for wounded soldiers from the battle that took place all around it.
Important People Buried Here
The cemetery at Old Tennent Church is the final resting place for several important historical figures.
Joshua Huddy: American Patriot
- Joshua Huddy was an American patriot during the Revolutionary War. He fought for American independence.
Nathaniel Scudder: Early American Leader
- Nathaniel Scudder was a very important person in early American history. He helped write and sign the Articles of Confederation. This was America's first constitution. He also served as a delegate to the Continental Congress, which was like an early American government.
Soldiers and Sailors Monument
In 1920, the people of Old Tennent Church built a special monument. This monument honors the soldiers and sailors from Monmouth County who died in The Great War.
The monument has a stone with the names of those who were lost. It also has a message that says: "This monument is dedicated to the memory of the Soldiers and Sailors of Monmouth County who sacrificed their lives in the World War 1914–1918. Erected by the Membership and Officers of the Old Tennent Church, 1920".
Later, another message was added to the monument. It explains that the monument was built to remember those who served in the Great War. Many of them are buried in unknown graves far away. The monument makes sure their names are remembered in this special, historic place. It shows that their friends, family, and visitors will always know they are not forgotten.
