That Union Square in Elizabeth was the scene of a major battle with British troops on June 8, 1780. That’s right, on that date a regiment of some 5,000 English soldiers called British Regulars landed in Elizabeth Port and marched down Elizabeth Avenue toward Union Square. The plan was to launch a surprise attack on General Washington and the Continental Army.
The British troops expected little or no resistance from Washington’s army believing the troops were ill fed and poorly paid. They also expected the people of Elizabethtown to welcome them with open arms but they were wrong. For a small group of 15 soldiers known as Minutemen were stationed at Union Square and as the British troops advanced the Minutemen held them off delaying their push into Springfield. The Minutemen even wounded British General Lord Stirling in the attack, thus allowing General Washington’s army time to regroup and in turn drive them out of New Jersey.
So next time you’re in Union Square Plaza, take a moment to stop by the statue and read the inscription dedicated to the Minutemen.
Speaking of Union Square Plaza, did you know that on Sunday, May 23rd Elizabeth Avenue plays host to the 7th Annual Tour de Elizabeth at Union Square Plaza. On that day, Union Square Plaza becomes a gathering spot for bike enthusiasts across New Jersey who come together to take part in what has become one of Elizabeth’s premier events. So, be sure to arrive early for the Tour registration and take a moment to read the inscription dedicated to the Minutemen on Union Square Plaza and then relax at one of our many fine district bakeries, Oasis, Caribe or Bella Palermo to name a few, before embarking on that 15 mile ride around the City.
As you begin your tour down Elizabeth Avenue, please take note of the many fine ethnic restaurants nestled along the way, for example, Rancho Mateo for great Columbian food, Rocky’s II Restaurant, El Palmar specializing in Puerto Rican/Cuban Cuisine and for the best Mexican Food in town La Cabana Mexican Restaurant can’t be bet.
Also look to Elizabeth Avenue for that special something that you may need for Father’s Day, that June Bride, or that High School or College Graduate. A gift certificate from one of our many fine beauty parlors or barbers, such as Reina’s Beauty Salon, Nu Style Hair Salon, or Crystalz should put a smile on Dad or that Graduates face. A bouquet of flowers is always a welcomed treat and Cupido Flower Shop or Linda’s Flower Shop is just the place to say “Great Job”, “Congratulations” or “Thank You”. A little charm or watch from one of our many fine jewelry stores, such as Salermo Jewelers, M & S Jewelers or Leonardo Jewelers will surely make the grade.
And finally, look to Union Square Plaza once again for our “Free Children’s Event’s” every Saturday from Noon to 2:00pm – petting zoos and pony rides – June 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th.
This Site Provided by Elizabeth Avenue Partnership 815 Elizabeth Avenue, Suite # 302, Elizabeth, NJ 07201 Phone 908.965.0660 Fax 908.353.0989 eap@elizabethavenue.org
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