Richard T Irwin

American Loyalists in Morris County Richard T Irwin

During the war for American Independence, being neutral was simply not an option for those who called the British colonies their home. When rebellion came, it was a simple binary choice; either you are with us, or you are against us. Passions ran high on both sides of the conflict, eventually leading to all out war with its British ruler, King George III. Deciding which side to choose was a decision that often tore families apart; pitting brother against brother and father against son. Everyone had a part to play, even women and children. Those that chose to fight had far more to lose than their lives; their commitment to revolt would place them squarely in the crosshairs of the monarch's wrath, which would profoundly impact their livelihood, their home, their family, neighbors, community, and country. Their choice would surely be an all or nothing proposition. Some made the decision quickly and decisively, while others vascillated and wavered in their commitment. Of the original colonies, New Jersey was the third state to ratify the Constitution and many of its townships played a significant roll in the founding of the nation and the conflict that would follow. These chapters document those individuals of Morris County New Jersey who aligned themselves with the British Crown as well as the price they had to pay for that allegiance.