This dwelling was the boyhood home of Captain James Lawrence who famously shouted to his crew, “Tell the men to fire faster and not to give up the ship; fight her till she sinks!”
James Lawrence was born in this house on October 1, 1781. He was the youngest of eleven children. Although he was educated in the field of law, he joined the young United States Navy in September 1798 as a midshipman. He went on to become a lieutenant and reached the rank of captain before his death in battle during the War of 1812.
It was during his last battle that he reportedly said “Tell the men to fire faster and not to give up the ship; fight her till she sinks!” This command was later paraphrased as, “Don’t Give Up the Ship”. It was sewn onto a flag and became the motto of the U.S. Navy.
In honor of his distinguished naval career, the U.S. Navy has named five ships after him, including: U.S. Brig Lawrence (1813-1825); U.S. Brig Lawrence (1843-1846); USS Lawrence (Destroyer #8); USS Lawrence (DD-250) and USS Lawrence (DDG-4)
Lawrence, who died on June 4, 1813, is buried in New York City.
Facilities for People with Disabilities
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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.
Phone Number
609-386-4773
Address
Burlington County Historical Society, 457 High Street, Burlington City, New Jersey 08016
Grounds Hours Please call the site for hours of operation.
Tour Hours Please call the site for hours of operation.
Entrance Fee None
GPS Coordinates
40.075916, -74.857255