The Sandy Hook Lighthouse
By Mrs. Silence Dogood
1. Where is the oldest lighthouse still in operation in the U.S.?
The lighthouse on the northern tip of the Gateway National Recreation Area in Sandy Hook, built in 1764, is the oldest lighthouse still in operation in the U.S.
2. Who was Mary Ludwig Hays McCauly and what role did she play in New Jersey and American history?
According to legend, Mary Ludwig Hays McCauly, also known as “Molly Pitcher,” delivered water to her husband’s battery to cool the cannons and soldiers during the battle of Monmouth Court House in 1778. When her husband was wounded, Molly took her husband’s place as a member of the cannon crew for the remainder of the battle.
3. From where does Monmouth County derive its name?
Monmouth County is named for Monmouth, Wales.
4. What are the three prominent tree species in Monmouth County forests?
Monmouth County is forested primarily with oak, hickory and shortleaf pine.
5. Who was the first European to set foot in present-day Monmouth County?
In 1609, Henry Hudson, and his crew aboard the Dutch vessel Half-Moon spotted land in what is now Monmouth County most likely off Sandy Hook; however, some historical accounts credit this landing to present-day Keansburg.
The article originally appeared in the May 7th – May 13th, 2020 print edition of The Two River Times.
