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Pluckemin, New Jersey facts for kids

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Pluckemin, New Jersey
Pluckemin Inn
Pluckemin Inn
Pluckemin, New Jersey is located in Somerset County, New Jersey
Pluckemin, New Jersey
Pluckemin, New Jersey
Location in Somerset County, New Jersey
Pluckemin, New Jersey is located in New Jersey
Pluckemin, New Jersey
Pluckemin, New Jersey
Location in New Jersey
Pluckemin, New Jersey is located in the United States
Pluckemin, New Jersey
Pluckemin, New Jersey
Location in the United States
Country  United States
State  New Jersey
County Somerset
Township Bedminster
Area
 • Total 0.70 sq mi (1.80 km2)
 • Land 0.69 sq mi (1.80 km2)
 • Water 0.00 sq mi (0.01 km2)
Elevation
184 ft (56 m)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total 359
 • Density 518.04/sq mi (199.93/km2)
FIPS code 34-59730
GNIS feature ID 879376

Pluckemin is a small community located in Bedminster Township. It is part of Somerset County in the state of New Jersey. It's known as an "unincorporated community," meaning it's not a separate town with its own government. It's also a "census-designated place" (CDP), which is an area the government defines for counting people.

Historically, Pluckemin was also called Pluckamin. This area played an important role during the American Revolutionary War, with several key events happening here.

How Many People Live Here?

Historical population
Census Pop.
2020 359
U.S. Decennial Census
2020

According to the 2020 census, 359 people live in Pluckemin.

Pluckemin's History

Revolutionary War Events

William Leslie Gravestone, Pluckemin, NJ
Gravestone of British Captain William Leslie, who died during the Battle of Princeton in 1777.

After winning the Battle of Princeton, General George Washington and his army rested near Pluckemin. They were on their way to Morristown in January 1777. On January 5, General Washington set up his main office in a local house. This house later became known as the John Fenner House. From there, he wrote a report about the battle to John Hancock.

General Washington also ordered special military honors for a British officer. This officer, Captain William Leslie, had died during the Battle of Princeton. He was a friend of the American doctor, Dr. Benjamin Rush. Captain Leslie's gravestone can still be found in the graveyard. It is at the site of the former St. Paul's Lutheran Church, where the Pluckemin Presbyterian Church now stands.

Winter Camp and Celebration

During the winter of 1778–1779, a special camp was set up nearby. This was the Pluckemin Continental Artillery Cantonment Site. It was commanded by General Henry Knox. Here, soldiers trained and prepared.

On February 18, 1779, General Knox organized a big party. It was called The French Alliance Ball. This party celebrated the first anniversary of the alliance with France. This treaty meant France would help America in the war. General Washington and his wife Martha attended the celebration. More than 400 people enjoyed dancing, drinks, and fireworks.

Pluckemin Village Historic District

The Pluckemin Village Historic District is a special area. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 26, 1982. This means the area has important historical buildings and sites. It is protected to preserve its history.

Transportation

Pluckemin has two main roads that cross through it. These are U.S. Route 202 and U.S. Route 206. These roads run north and south. Another important road is County Route 620. This road is also known as Burnt Mills Road and Washington Valley Road. It runs east and west.

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