War of 1812 Had Essex Girding for Invasion-- Part 3

General William Gould, a Revolutionary War veteran, recruited a company, more than 100 men, all residents of Caldwell, and ordered them to Jersey City as well. It is believed that Caldwell was the only New Jersey town to send soldiers voluntarily. Eventually, Gould commanded a regiment of 1200 men at Jersey City.

After Washington, D.C., was burned in August 1814, Essex County troops were called to active duty. Field artillery was sent to Elizabethtown, Newark, Springfield, Bloomfield, Patterson and Caldwell.

In the event of attack at any point, three cannons were to be fired in rapid succession which was the signal for regiments to meet. The British captured several coastal vessels and the New Jersey militia was activated.

By December 1814, New Jersey militia strength continued to grow until it eventaully reached 3,529.

Then, the Treaty of Ghent was signed.

--Brock-Perry