The pivotal Battle of Monmouth began near this site on June 28, 1778. A campaign to erect a memorial to it, led by Freehold native Governor Joel Parker and Major James S. Yard, began in 1877. Its cornerstone was laid on the battle’s 100th anniversary, and its unveiling took place on November 13, 1884. Surrounding the 90 foot granite column are bas-reliefs sculpted by James Edward Kelly depicting Revolutionary War scenes and the seals of the 13 colonies. The figure of Columbia triumphant stands at its peak. Damaged by lightning in 1894, the original statue was replaced in 1896. Funding for construction included private donations and appropriations by the New Jersey Legislature and U.S. Congress. The family of Daniel S. Schank donated the land, ownership of which passed from the state to the County of Monmouth in 1999.