History is for Everyone

NJ, USA

Craig House (Owl Nest)

Historic House

The Craig House, also known as Owl Nest, is a colonial-era farmhouse within Monmouth Battlefield State Park. The house served as a field hospital during the Battle of Monmouth and is one of several surviving structures from the period of the engagement.

What Happened Here

During the Battle of Monmouth, the Craig House and its outbuildings were used to shelter wounded soldiers from both armies. The farmstead sat near the center of the battlefield, and its proximity to the fighting meant that casualties were brought to the house throughout the day. The extreme heat of June 28, 1778 — with temperatures approaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit — made the need for shelter and water particularly urgent. The Craig House is one of the few surviving structures that witnessed the battle, and its preservation provides visitors with a tangible connection to the events of that day. The house has been restored and is open for guided tours during special events.

Visiting Today

Address

Within Monmouth Battlefield State Park, Manalapan, NJ 07726

Hours

Open during special events and guided tours

Admission

Free

Connected Events

Feb 1778
Feb 1778
Valley Forge Training Tested at Monmouth

Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben, George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, Marquis de Lafayette, Anthony Wayne

Jun 1778
British March from Philadelphia to New York

Sir Henry Clinton, Charles Cornwallis

Jun 1778
Continental Army Departs Valley Forge

Sir Henry Clinton, Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben

Jun 1778
War Council at Hopewell

George Washington, Charles Lee, Anthony Wayne, Marquis de Lafayette, Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben, Sir Henry Clinton

Jun 1778
Lee Demands Advance Command

Charles Lee, Marquis de Lafayette, George Washington

Jun 1778
Battle of Monmouth

George Washington, Charles Lee, Sir Henry Clinton, Charles Cornwallis, Anthony Wayne, Marquis de Lafayette, Alexander Hamilton

Jun 1778
Molly Pitcher at the Cannon

Mary Ludwig Hays (Molly Pitcher)