Union County To Host Revolutionary War Lecture On Little-Known Rivalry That Shaped NJ History

UNION COUNTY, NJ — The Union County Board of County Commissioners is inviting residents to attend a Revolutionary War lecture exploring the rivalry between Colonel Tye and Captain Joshua Huddy.

The program, titled “New Jersey’s Revolutionary Rivalry: The Untold Story of Colonel Tye and Captain Huddy,” will be presented by author Rick Geffken on Wednesday, May 13 at 12 p.m. at the Elizabeth Public Library, located at 11 S. Broad St. in Elizabeth.

Organized through the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, the event is part of ongoing efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution by highlighting lesser-known historical narratives.

“Union County is proud to support programs that bring history to life for our residents,” said Commissioner Chairman Joseph Bodek. “As we approach the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, it’s important that we continue to share stories like this one.”

Bodek added that such programs help “challenge perspectives, deepen understanding, and connect our communities to the past in meaningful ways.”

The lecture will examine the conflict between Colonel Tye, a formerly enslaved man who became a Loyalist leader, and Captain Joshua Huddy, a prominent member of the Monmouth County militia.

According to county officials, their rivalry reflects the divided loyalties and personal stakes that shaped Revolutionary War-era New Jersey, particularly in the years following the 1778 Battle of Monmouth.

“This lecture offers a powerful opportunity to explore a more nuanced and inclusive history of the Revolutionary War,” said Commissioner Vice-Chair Rebecca L. Williams. “By highlighting figures like Colonel Tye, we are able to tell a broader story.”

Williams added that the program reflects “the diverse experiences and complexities of our nation’s founding.”

The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to register in advance. For more information on this and other Cultural and Heritage programs, visit ucnj.org.