In May and June of 2025, on behalf of Somerset County and in collaboration with the Department of History and Anthropology of Monmouth University, Hunter Research launched an archaeological investigation and field school at the site of Lord Stirling Manor near Basking Ridge, New Jersey. This work will be highlighted at Somerset County’s annual “1770s Festival” at Lord Stirling Park from 11:30a.m. to 4:00p.m. on Sunday, October 5, 2025 (click here for more information).
Lord Stirling Manor was the home of George Washington’s confidant and senior Continental Army general, William Alexander (aka Lord Stirling) from the early 1760s until his death in 1783. The archaeology is still an unfolding story. Excavations took place here from 1983 until 1990 before resuming this year. Hunter Research and Monmouth University have been tasked with analyzing and reporting this earlier work, carrying out further investigations and launching the field school, all in support of Somerset County’s intent to make the site a major heritage tourism destination and a focus of the upcoming celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.
Look for announcements of further discoveries and developments at the Lord Stirling Manor Archaeological Site in the months and years to come…
