Provincial Congress of New Jersey facts for kids

The Provincial Congress of New Jersey was an important group that helped govern New Jersey during the start of the American Revolution. It was a temporary government. This Congress first met in 1775. Representatives from all thirteen counties of New Jersey attended.

Their main goal was to take over from the British Royal Governor. In June 1776, the Congress decided to create a new constitution for New Jersey. This constitution was written very quickly, in just five days. The Provincial Congress approved it, and the Continental Congress also accepted it.

The new Constitution of 1776 set up a two-part government. It created a General Assembly with three members from each county. It also formed a legislative council with one member from each county. Under this new plan, the Legislature would choose all state leaders, including the governor. The Provincial Congress stopped meeting on August 27, 1776. This happened when the new Legislature, created by their constitution, met for the first time.

Early Meetings in 1775

The Provincial Congress held its first meetings in Trenton. These sessions took place in late May, June, and August of 1775.

Choosing Leaders

During their first week of meetings, on May 23, 1775, the members chose their leaders. They elected Hendrick Fisher as the President of the Congress. Jonathan Dickinson Sergeant became the secretary. William Paterson and Frederick Frelinghuysen were chosen as assistants.

Key Members of the Congress

Many important people served in the Provincial Congress. Some members also played a big role in the wider American Revolution.

Signers of the Declaration of Independence

Three members of the New Jersey Provincial Congress later signed the Declaration of Independence. These important figures were:

• Abraham Clark
• John Hart
• The Reverend John Witherspoon