The present church structure was built in 1867. The original church structure was built circa 1758. This was the site of Manahawkin Skirmish on December 30, 1781. [1] A historic sign at the site explains, "On this ground, Captain Reuben Randolph led the Manahawkin Militia (Company 5. 2nd Monmouth) against a force of British Loyalist that was twice as large, and commanded by the notorious Captain John Bacon. During the action, Lines Pangborn was killed, and fellow patriot Sylvester Tilton was seriously wounded." [2]
The cemetery contains the grave of Revolutionary War soldier Private Silas Crane: December 9, 1759 - January 21, 1829.
Sources:
1.^ Sign in front of the church, posted by the Stafford Township Historical Commission 2005. Installed as part of the Troop 26 Eagle Scout Project by Lance Beuckman.
2.^ Sign erected by the Board of Chosen Freeholders "to Commemorate Ocean County's role in the American Revolution on its 225th anniversary, 2001-2008"
