ETERNALSOLDIER
Archaeology Day for Veterans
at Red Bank Battlefield Park
Located along the banks of the Delaware River, Red Bank Battlefield Park consists of Whitall House (1748), the adjacent battlefield and remnants of Fort Mercer. This was the setting of the Battle of Red Bank during the Revolutionary War in late October 1777.
Archaeology has been ongoing at the park since 2015. Excavation in August 2022 uncovered the remains of 13 Hessian soldiers. A YouTube video with Wade Catts, RPA, Director of Excavation, explains what was revealed. Visit Archaeology at Fort Mifflin to learn about Eternal Soldier's 2025-2026 excavation of Red Bank's sister fort in Philadelphia, directed by Kimberly Max Brown, PhD.
Red Bank features earthworks and cannon used by the Continental Army to defend the Delaware River against a much larger British and Hessian force. Currently, Whitall House and the battlefield are part of the Gloucester County Parks system. The park features picnic pavilions and scenic paths overlooking the Delaware. Tours and activities for Veterans and their families (children 5YO+) will be offered during the day.
Archaeology Day for Veterans at Red Bank 2023
Archaeology Day for Veterans is a part of a larger program of excavation investigating Fort Mercer, its interior and construction, post-Revolution use of the site, and the presence of Native American and battle related artifacts. There will be one session: 9am-12pm though participants are welcome to stay for the entire day until 4pm. Veterans will help dig, work with specialists and process artifacts (screening and washing). Please note: Children under 14YO will not be permitted to work in the excavation trenches or with heavy tools. Screening and artifact cleaning will be available for all. Come ready to get dirty.