In preparation for the U.S. semiquincentennial anniversary in 2026, Gov. Phil Murphy on Tuesday announced $25 million in funding toward the Garden State’s Revolutionary War historic sites.

That anniversary, marking the signing of Declaration of Independence and the nation’s 250th year of independence, was also a central part of the New Jersey/New York pitch for its successful World Cup 2026 bid, which NJBIZ has chronicled.

The $25 million, which comes from American Rescue plan funds, will be allocated to the New Jersey Department of Treasury and distributed to Revolution NJ, in partnership with the New Jersey Historical Commission and Crossroads of the American Revolution.

Murphy was joined by several lawmakers and stakeholders during the Nov. 29 event at Washington Crossing State Park in Titus, where he announced the funding will be used to help in the restoration of these Revolutionary War sites:

• Washington Crossing State Park
• Trenton’s Old Barracks
• Battle Monument in Trenton
• Princeton Battlefield State Park
• Monmouth Battlefield State Park
• Proprietary House in Perth Amboy
• The Indian King Tavern in Haddonfield
• Wallace House in Somerville
• Boxwood Hall in Elizabeth
• Rockingham in Kingston

The governor says that the Garden State’s contribution to our nation’s independence is undeniable.

“From the battlefields where the tide of the American Revolution turned, to the many other sites where our nation’s identity was forged, New Jersey was arguably more deeply involved in the cause of independence than any other state,” said Murphy. “As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, it is important that our historic sites are prepared to welcome the hundreds of thousands of visitors that will undoubtedly travel from around the world to witness these sites in person on such a momentous occasion.”

“These 10 state-owned sites are centuries old and this funding will ensure that visitors today, tomorrow and for centuries to come, will be able to engage with and appreciate the Revolutionary stories these locations help us tell,” said New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way.

Carrie Fellows, executive director, Crossroads of the American Revolution Association, said the funding will be used for key visitor readiness projects at these sites, which will serve as the initial core for Revolutionary War heritage tourism.

“This historic investment is only the first step in raising New Jersey’s profile as the acknowledged Crossroads of the American Revolution,” said Fellows. “As the fundraising arm of Revolution NJ, Crossroads will be working to secure the participation of private donors to build on this crucial investment – to bring vital economic activity to our local communities by supporting and sustaining heritage tourism in New Jersey for the 250th anniversary and beyond.”