The success of this conflict did not come on the battlefield. The outcome was an advantageous luring of 3000 Hessian troops, which were garrisoned nearby, to a position much further south in Mount Holly. As a result, when General George Washington crossed the Delaware River on Dec. 26 and attacked the Hessian forces occupying Trenton, these Hessian support troops were too far south to assist in the defense of New Jersey's future capital. The Continental Army gained an important victory that turned the tide of the war by inspiring the already disheartened soldiers and attracting new recruits for the war effort.
What always intrigued me about this locale was the name. How did this bridge get it's name?
Well, there are a few versions of this story... with the more sensational tale claiming that the women of the area were tearing up the planks of the bridge to stop the Hessian army. One of the ladies lost her balance and fell off, but was saved when her petticoat caught on a nail. A less romantic version talks of winds blowing through the creek bottom and lifting the women's dresses, revealing their petticoats. I've even read once that some of the local female residents took up rifles and helped the Mt. Holly militia against the advancing Hessians.
Which ever one you choose to believe, it makes for an interesting tale!
For additional information, you may click on the link below:
Petticoat Bridge
I spotted this location some time ago and wondered why a geocache was never place here. Well, there is one here now! This is not a very difficult hide, just one to bring you to a point of interest in American history. So, have fun at the Petticoat Bridge!
Log only - bring a pen. You MUST sign the log to get credit for the find.
THERE IS PARKING NEARBY ALONG THE ROADSIDE. PLEASE PARK WELL OFF THE ROAD TO ALLOW FOR PASSING VEHICLES.
Congratulations to Team Freeman for FTF!