NJ, USA

Nassau Hall

Landmark

Nassau Hall, completed in 1756, was the sole building of the College of New Jersey (later Princeton University) for nearly half a century and the largest stone building in colonial New Jersey. It served as a dormitory, classroom, chapel, and library, housing the entire college within its walls. During the Revolution, it was occupied by both British and American forces and sustained damage during the Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777.

In 1783, Nassau Hall served as the meeting place of the Continental Congress, making Princeton briefly the capital of the United States. The Congress received the news of the Treaty of Paris within its walls.

What Happened Here

Nassau Hall was designed by Robert Smith and named after King William III of the House of Orange-Nassau. During the British occupation of Princeton in late 1776, the building was used as a barracks and stable, and much of its interior — including Witherspoon's library and the college's scientific instruments — was destroyed. During the Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777, approximately 194 British soldiers of the 40th Regiment of Foot barricaded themselves inside Nassau Hall. American Captain Alexander Hamilton directed cannon fire at the building, and according to tradition, one shot entered through a window and destroyed a portrait of King George II. The British garrison surrendered shortly afterward.

In June 1783, the Continental Congress fled Philadelphia after a mutiny of unpaid soldiers and reconvened at Nassau Hall, where it met until November. During this period, George Washington was officially thanked by Congress for his service, and the announcement of the Treaty of Paris was received. Charles Willson Peale was commissioned to paint Washington's portrait, which now hangs in the Faculty Room.

Nassau Hall has been rebuilt and renovated multiple times following fires in 1802 and 1855, but its sandstone walls and essential form survive from the colonial era. It remains the administrative center of Princeton University.