New Jersey is one of the oldest states in the United States — and because of that, it has a whole lot of interesting history. This is the state where the first amusement park pier was built, the shark attacks that inspired “Jaws” occurred, Thomas Edison made myriad inventions, and one of the most famous duels of all time happened. And good news for history-lovers: You can visit the very spot where that duel occurred.
Weehawken Dueling Grounds is an incredibly interesting historical site to visit in New Jersey.
Sedale Ziegler/Google Local This was once a popular dueling ground back in the 1700s, chosen because it was only accessible by river.
The purpose of duels was for “gentlemen” to fight in a way to defend their honor.
Haim Brenner/Google Local Duels were illegal by the 1800s in New York and New Jersey, but that didn’t stop them from happening.
The plaque that marks the historical site actually sits on the cliffs above it.
David Tsai/Google Local Notable people who fought here include DeWitt Clinton, who was once Governor of New York, and U.S. Navy Commodore Oliver Perry.
Of course, the most famous duel fought here was the one between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr.
Kenny Hiner/Google Local The duel, which has been immortalized in the hit musical “Hamilton,” occurred in 1804. At one point, the two men, who were heavily involved in U.S. politics, were once friends, but had grown to seriously dislike each other over the years. But when Burr alleged that Hamilton had defamed him while Burr was running for Governor of New York, the two decided to have a duel to settle their differences. Hamilton was killed in it, and Burr’s reputation was left in tatters.
A bust of Hamilton now sits in the area. It used to sit upon the very boulder Hamilton rested his head on before dying, but was ultimately moved due to vandalism.
manu robledano/Google Local It also is a great place to admire the NYC skyline.
It’s well worth a visit if you’re a history buff – or a “Hamilton” fan!
Alena Zakharova/Google Local
Sedale Ziegler/Google Local
This was once a popular dueling ground back in the 1700s, chosen because it was only accessible by river.
Haim Brenner/Google Local
Duels were illegal by the 1800s in New York and New Jersey, but that didn’t stop them from happening.
David Tsai/Google Local
Notable people who fought here include DeWitt Clinton, who was once Governor of New York, and U.S. Navy Commodore Oliver Perry.
Kenny Hiner/Google Local
The duel, which has been immortalized in the hit musical “Hamilton,” occurred in 1804. At one point, the two men, who were heavily involved in U.S. politics, were once friends, but had grown to seriously dislike each other over the years. But when Burr alleged that Hamilton had defamed him while Burr was running for Governor of New York, the two decided to have a duel to settle their differences. Hamilton was killed in it, and Burr’s reputation was left in tatters.
manu robledano/Google Local
It also is a great place to admire the NYC skyline.
Alena Zakharova/Google Local
Walk over to Weehawken Waterfront Park when you’re done!
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Address: Weehawken Dueling Grounds, Weehawken, NJ 07086, USA
