Long before telegraphs, radios, or cell phones, New Jersey’s mountaintops carried messages by fire. During the Revolutionary War, General William Livingston and Brigadier General William Alexander—better known as Lord Stirling—relied on a chain of signal beacons stretching across the Watchung Mountains and beyond to warn of British troop movements and summon militia. From heights such as Middlebrook, Hobart Gap, Pigeon’s Hill, High Mountain, and the Ramapo region, these beacon fires formed an early communication network that helped defend New Jersey and protect George Washington’s army.
Reigniting New Jersey’s Revolutionary signal beacons offers far more than a single moment of remembrance. Each beacon site could become the centerpiece of a daylong community celebration featuring historical lectures, living-history encampments, militia and fife-and-drum reenactments, colonial crafts, family picnics, food vendors, and activities that bring the Revolutionary era to life. Local historical societies, scouts, veterans groups, and civic organizations could work together to create gatherings that connect communities with their heritage. As evening approaches and visitors gather on the mountaintops and historic high places, the festivities would culminate with the lighting of the signal beacon bonfires, recreating the chain of flames that once warned and united New Jersey during the Revolution and symbolically linking generations as America marks its 250th anniversary.
It’s Been Done Before –
Not Just During the Revolutionary War
1980 Bicentennial – The Summit Beacon
THE SUMMIT HERALD, JULY 3, 1980
BETTER THAN FIREWORKS! — The 200th anniversary of the Continental Army’s defeat of the British and Hessians at the Battle of Springfield might not have been celebrated on June 21 (battle was June 23), had there not been a beacon atop the Second Watchung Mountain, adjacent to Hobart Gap, to warn the countryside, and the Continental Army and Militia encamped to the west, of the arrival of the enemy. And it was to observe the significance of that vital defense measure that a 20-foot-high replica of the beacon was “fired up” beside the pond in Briant Park in Summit on June 21.
The replica was built the preceding day by James T. Raleigh of Colts Neck, a researcher of the story of the chain of more than 20 log-pyramid beacons that General Washington had built across central and northern New Jersey during the “War for Independence”. And it was ignited that night before 1000-1500 spectators as part of ceremonies staged that weekend to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Battles of Elizabethtown, Connecticut Farms, and Springfield.
When used to produce a smoke signal back in 1780, the small amount of brush burned inside the log structure for that purpose would not have generated enough heat to ignite the massive logs of the tower itself. However, the tower erected last week was built with since-replaced, log-cabin logs discarded by Jockey Hollow State Park which had to be disposed of in some way. So, albeit somewhat unauthentically, the entire tower was burned—to the delight of all, including the photographers who enjoyed this crackling view of the event. (Note: The complete story of General Washington’s alarm beacons, and particularly the one located in Summit (approximately at the corner of Beacon Road and Hobart Avenue), is told in the Summit Historical Society’s book, “The Revolutionary War Beacon at Signal Station No. 1”, by Margaret W. (Mrs. G. Ernest) Long of Summit. At Summit Public Library, or to buy it ($3), call 273-0970.
1983 – Signal Beacon Fires Across New Jersey
By April 1783, signal fire beacons no longer signaled British danger. Instead, these iconic towers became “fires of joy,” celebrating news that hostilities with Great Britain had ceased and peace had finally arrived after eight long years of war. Two hundred years later, New Jersey came together to honor the bicentennial of Lord Stirling’s signal beacon efforts.
Fast forward 200 years, and a driving force behind a statewide beacon-fire recreation effort was Bert (Elbertus) Prol, Ringwood Manor historian and curator, who organized communities throughout New Jersey and New York to participate in a coordinated commemoration of the April 1783 cessation of hostilities. Working closely with Revolutionary War historian James T. Raleigh, extensive research helped identify historic beacon sites and guide the construction of authentic replicas throughout New Jersey and New York.
Beacon sites stretched from New York through northern New Jersey to Monmouth County. Participating communities included Ringwood, Wayne, Oakland, Pompton Lakes, Kinnelon, Parsippany, Morristown, Summit, Holmdel, Sea Girt, and several locations in New York.
| Beacon Site | Municipality | County | Organization / Group Responsible |
| Morris County Police & Fire Academy (West Hanover Ave.) | Parsippany-Troy Hills | Morris | Morris County Historical Society, Boy Scout troops, and volunteers |
| Briant Park | Springfield–Summit border | Union | Local historical organizations, Boy Scout troops, and volunteers |
| High Mountain | Wayne | Passaic | Local historical organizations, Boy Scout troops, and volunteers |
| Skyline Drive | Ringwood | Passaic | Ringwood Manor Historic Site Committee led by curator Elbertus Prol, with volunteers |
| Route 34 and Route 520 | Holmdel | Monmouth | Local historical organizations, Boy Scout troops, and volunteers |
| Kakeout Mountain | Kinnelon | Morris | Morris County volunteers and historical organizations |
| Federal Hill | Pompton Lakes | Passaic | Local historical organizations and volunteers |
| Ramapo Mountain | Oakland | Bergen | Local historical organizations and volunteers |
| Garret Mountain | Paterson | Passaic | Local historical organizations and volunteers |
| State Police Training Academy | Sea Girt | Monmouth | New Jersey State Police |
| Six beacon sites | Orange County, NY | New York | Local New York historical organizations |
| Six beacon sites | Rockland County, NY | New York | Local New York historical organizations |
| Six beacon sites | Dutchess County, NY | New York | Local New York historical organizations |
The effort also brought together Historical societies, Boy Scout troops, Park commissions, Municipal governments, Reenactors and artillery units, local historians, and Community volunteers. Scouts played a major role. Eagle Scout projects helped build replicas at Ringwood Manor and Garrett Mountain. Hundreds of volunteer hours went into constructing the log pyramids that once again illuminated New Jersey’s skies.
Burning the Beacons Celebration – April 15, 1983
The statewide lighting of New Jersey’s Revolutionary signal beacons was deliberately scheduled for Friday evening, April 15, 1983, allowing communities, historical organizations, and volunteers to participate after the workweek and creating a dramatic kickoff to weekend commemorative activities.
Finally, after months of planning, preparation, and construction, communities across New Jersey gathered on the evening of Friday, April 15, 1983, as darkness approached. Washington’s proclamation announcing the cessation of hostilities was read aloud. Fifes and drums filled the air, artillery companies fired salutes, and reenactors dressed in Continental uniforms stood watch.
Then, one by one, the signal beacons burst into flames. As night descended across the state, beacon fires illuminated hilltops and historic sites, recreating the chain of warning signals that had once protected Revolutionary New Jersey and marking the opening of the state’s Bicentennial observances with a dramatic and unforgettable tribute to America’s founding.
At Ringwood Manor, dignitaries representing England, France, and Spain joined the celebration. In Morris County, the Morris County Historical Society recreated the Pigeon’s Hill beacon. Throughout the state, citizens witnessed towering flames, some reaching more than fifty feet high, recreating the “fires of joy” first lit two centuries earlier.
Newspapers across New Jersey documented the effort, and television crews covered the celebration. Despite weather concerns and a few challenges, the event became one of the most ambitious statewide historical commemorations ever undertaken in New Jersey.
America 250:
Igniting an Effort to Build and Light Rev War Signal Beacons
As the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence, there is an opportunity to once again bring New Jersey together. The Mr. Local History Project is working to bring New Jersey together by organizing groups that will transform signals of war into Fires of Joy that unite communities, honor history, and share our America 250 spirit.
The objective is simple:
Recreate the 1983 effort and relight the Revolutionary War signal beacons across New Jersey to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the news of peace across New Jersey and America!
Like the volunteers who came before us, the effort would seek to unite:
- Historical societies
- Scouts BSA troops
- State and county parks
- Living history organizations
- Artillery companies
- Veterans groups
- Schools
- Civic organizations
- Local communities
It seems that some county and state officials don’t believe such an effort is feasable. And we think they are wrong.
We are currently looking to historical organizations and societies that may have project files of the previous Signal Beacon projects held in 1980 and 1983. If you know of any photos, videos, files, or plans, we’d love to connect.
More than just a series of bonfires, the event would celebrate New Jersey’s central role in the Revolution and remind a new generation of the communication system that once protected Washington’s army and connected communities across the state.
Help The Campaign
The Mr. Local History Project is exploring the possibility of coordinating a statewide effort to recreate the 1983 signal beacon celebration for America 250. Historical organizations, Scout troops, reenactors, artillery units, municipalities, schools, and volunteers interested in participating are encouraged to contact us.
Together, we can ensure that New Jersey’s Revolutionary fires shine once again.
Contact:
Mr. Local History Project
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions
New Jersey Signal Beacon 250 Project
1. What is the New Jersey Signal Beacon 250 Project?
The project seeks to recreate a Revolutionary War signal beacon as part of America’s 250th anniversary, giving visitors a chance to experience a piece of New Jersey’s past through a living history event.
2. Why are signal beacons important to New Jersey history?
Signal beacons formed an early-warning network used during the Revolutionary War to communicate the movements of British forces and alert militia and Continental Army units.
3. Who organized the original beacon system?
Major General William Alexander, better known as Lord Stirling, oversaw the New Jersey beacon network under the direction of George Washington.
4. Has New Jersey done this before?
Yes. In 1983, communities throughout New Jersey recreated and lit signal beacons to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the end of the Revolutionary War.
5. Where is the proposed location?
The preferred location is Lord Stirling Park in Basking Ridge, where Lord Stirling once lived and where Washington’s armies operated during the war.
6. Will the beacon actually be lit?
That is the intention. Organizers hope to conduct a carefully planned and controlled lighting ceremony that safely recreates the appearance and spirit of the original signal fires.
7. How large will the beacon be?
The beacon is expected to be approximately 20 feet tall and to be built using a traditional timber design inspired by historical descriptions.
8. Is the beacon intended to be historically accurate?
Yes. The structure and ceremony are based on Revolutionary War research while incorporating modern safety requirements.
9. Will visitors be close to the fire?
No. A designated safety perimeter would keep spectators at a safe distance while still allowing excellent viewing opportunities.
10. How will fire safety be handled?
Safety will be the top priority. The event would be coordinated with local fire officials, emergency services, and other authorities. Burn plans, weather conditions, and emergency procedures would all be considered before any ignition.
11. Could the event be canceled because of weather?
Yes. High winds, drought conditions, fire restrictions, or other unsafe conditions could result in postponement, modification, or cancellation of the lighting ceremony.
12. What materials would be burned?
Only approved and properly prepared wood and fuel sources would be used. No hazardous materials or accelerants inconsistent with safety regulations would be permitted.
13. Will permits be required?
Yes. Any public beacon event would require the necessary permits and approvals from local and state authorities.
14. Will firefighters be present?
Organizers hope to work closely with local fire departments and emergency personnel, who may provide oversight and support during the event.
15. Could there be a non-flame alternative?
Yes. If conditions make an open flame impossible, organizers could explore other options, including ceremonial lighting effects or educational displays.
16. Who is organizing the effort?
The Mr. Local History Project is coordinating research and planning while seeking partnerships with historical societies, municipalities, civic organizations, and volunteers.
17. Who can participate?
Historical societies, scouts, veterans groups, schools, reenactors, community organizations, and interested residents are encouraged to become involved.
18. Is this a government project?
No. The project is envisioned as a community effort in collaboration with local agencies and historical organizations.
19. Could other communities recreate their own beacons?
Yes. Organizers hope the effort may inspire communities across New Jersey to revive portions of the original beacon network during the America 250 celebration.
20. Why recreate a signal beacon today?
The beacon symbolizes communication, unity, sacrifice, and vigilance. It provides a powerful way to bring people together and remind future generations of New Jersey’s central role in the American Revolution.
21. Has anyone else successfully held similar events?
Yes. Communities in New York and New Jersey, including the statewide 1983 commemoration, have demonstrated that these historic ceremonies can be conducted safely with proper planning and coordination.
22. What if someone is concerned about fire safety?
Those concerns are understandable and are taken seriously. The project would proceed only with professional guidance, permits, emergency planning, and cooperation from local fire officials. Public safety will always take precedence over historical authenticity.
