I Stumbled Across American History Right Here In Ocean County, NJ

New Jersey Society Sons of the American Revolution

I was recently out in Northwestern Ocean County visiting New Egypt, we were presenting New Egypt High School their award for winning our Mascot Mayhem contest when I stumbled across some real American history in Ocean County. As I left the school and started heading home I spotted the sign for the "New Jersey Society Sons of the American Revolution" and the cemetery in New Egypt.

Get our free mobile app

The Old Zion Methodist Cemetery is where a Veteran of the American Revolutionary War lies interred—the body of PVT. Thomas Chafey/Chaffy is at rest in this cemetery. PVT. Chafey/Chaffy served in the New Jersey 1st Regiment from 1780 to 1783.

It is very intriguing to see historical places like this right here in our area. Not only does this cemetery have a Veteran of the Revolutionary War, but there are also Veterans of the Civil War and I think I also saw World War I and World War II Veterans as well. That is a lot of history all in one place.

PVT. Chafey/Chaffy was born in 1752 and died in 1828 at the age of 76. So as we approach the 4th of July it is fitting to take a moment and thank PVT. Chafey/Chaffy for his service during the birth of our nation.

The Patriots Cemetery is located on Lakewood Road (Route 528) in New Egypt. You will see the signs that mark the location and flags in the cemetery highlight Veterans who are buried there. As always when visiting a cemetery be respectful and do not disturb the location. It is a true piece of American history right here in New Jersey.