Surrounded by fierce fighting during the Battle of Princeton, this rural farmhouse became a hospital for both sides after the battle. It was here, in one of the bedrooms, that the Americans lost a General.
Built by Thomas Clarke in 1772, the house is located on Princeton Battlefield and was the scene of heavy fighting during the Battle of Princeton. General Hugh Mercer was mortally wounded nearby and was carried to the Clarke House, where he died nine days after the battle. For more information, visit the Princeton Battlefield Society website.
Thomas Clarke, a Quaker farmer, acquired 200 acres in 1772 from his older brother William. He subsequently built a house and lived there with his sisters Sarah as well as Susannah, a black woman enslaved by the Clarke Family. The Clarke farm includes the original two-story half-Georgian frame house and enlarged wing, the carriage barn and smokehouse. The house, consisting of seven rooms, is furnished in the style of the Revolution and early Federal periods. Much of the original flooring, moldings and windows remain.
The Clarke House is furnished in the period of the American Revolution (1775-1783) with elements of early 19th century style and furniture. It retains much of its original flooring, moldings and windows. Domestic chores of cooking, textile production and other daily tasks are represented in the household furnishings and occasionally demonstrated during special events held in the park.
Tours of the house are available to the general public during listed hours. For school groups, special interest groups, military staff rides, and larger parties please call 609-921-0074 to schedule a time or specialty program.
Facilities for People with Disabilities
We encourage people with disabilities who require special considerations to contact the historic site / park at the phone number listed in the general information on the home page of the historic site / park. The staff will assist with arrangements. Text telephone (TT) users, please call the NJ Relay Services at (800) 852-7899.
For the Comfort and Enjoyment of All
This historic site / park is part of the NJ State Park system and your cooperation with the following will help ensure the survival of the museum collections, historic structures & features and surrounding property for the enjoyment and education of future generations!
Please contact this historic site / park with specific inquiries about any of these restrictions, as there may be some variations at this specific historic site / park.
Princeton Battlefield State Park
Washington Crossing State Park
Phone Number
609-921-0074
Address
500 Mercer Road
Princeton, NJ 08540
Email Address
PrincetonBattlefield@dep.nj.gov
Tour HoursThe Clarke House is open Wed-Sat from 10am-12pm, 1pm-4pm and Sun 1pm-4pm.
Please call ahead to learn about site closures or special events. 609-921-0074
Entrance Fee Admission is free, program fees may apply.
GPS Coordinates
40° 19’ 51.09” N 74° 40' 36.68" W