George Washington in Vernon

Did you know that George Washington spent more time in New Jersey during the Revolutionary War than any of the other 13 colonies? Yes, General and first President George Washington passed through and spent numerous times in Vernon and Warwick, N.Y. He probably passed by the location where the present-day Vernon Burger King stands today at the intersection of Routes 515 and 94.
Vernon Township Historical Society President Jessi Paladini presented a Revolutionary history lesson to the Vernon Leisure Club on May 15. Reviewing history, Paladini reminded the group that the Revolutionary War raged from 1775 to 1783 because American patriots were tired of British tyranny and taxation without representation.
“The majority of the war was fought in four states: New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Connecticut,” Paladini said.
She dropped some historical names in relationship to General George Washington. Past Vernon residents Dr. John Hinchman and his wife Abagail housed and fed Washington. Past Vernon residents Richard Edsall and John Williams served in the Patriot army. Both George and Martha Washington slept at the Baird Tavern in Warwick.
“Back during the times Washington passed through, there were roughly only 500 people living in Vernon,” clarified Paladini.
Paladini made reference to how the neighboring town of Warwick has several historical signs marking Washington’s official visits and key war history.
The Society President and the Vernon Historical Society are hoping to mark Revolutionary historical sites and events in Vernon as well.
“I think that General Washington and his army marching through our town is quite impressive,” said Paladini.
Leisure Club members were amazed and appreciative with the sharing of the historical information. It ended with Paladini mentioning another political personality.
“Did you also know that Aaron Burr was a Vernon land owner?