On June 3rd, 2023 we gathered in Stafford Township to honor the memories of two Revolutionary Patriots. First the descendants of Private Silas Crane marked his gravesite in the old Manahawkin Baptist Church Graveyard. Second, a few blocks away, we honored Private Samuel Bennet. At both locations Pomeroy Foundation Plaques where unveiled to inform the public of the sacrifices made by these brave men.
Gravesite of Silas Crane and Program Video
Silas Crane (December 9, 1759 to January 21, 1829) served as a private in the 5th Company Second Regiment of the Monmouth County Militia, the Manahawkin Militia. Cranes served in the 2nd Regiment of the New Jersey commanded by Israel Shreves. He was wounded at the Manahawkin Skirmish on the 31st of December 1781. Crane was the victim of a number of intimidating attacks by John Bacon including an incident where Bacon shot at Crane through Crane’s window as Bacon passed his house. Pension claim by his wife Zipporah Crane (#3782).
Crane was born in New England and stood five feet; seven inches high with light blue eyes.
We believe that the Old Baptist Graveyard is also the final resting place of two other Revolutionary Patriots.
Lines (or Linus) Pangborn (app. 1740 — December 31, 1781) served as a private in the 5th Company, Second Regiment of the Monmouth County Militia, the Manahawkin Militia. He also served in Samuel Foreman Company. Killed in action at the Manahawkin Skirmish on the 31st of December 1781.
Luke Courtney (March 8, 1757 — October 28, 1802) served as a private in the 5th Company Second Regiment of the Monmouth County Militia, the Manahawkin Militia.
A moment a contemplation after marking the grave of Samuel Bennett
Samuel Bennett (October 5, 1757 — February 27, 1846) was a Private in the 5th Company First Regiment of the Manahawkin Militia. Present at the Manahawkin Skirmish on the 31st of December 1781. Bennet also served in Forman’s Additional Continental Regiment, includingthe battle of Germantown. Forman’s Regiment was absorbed into Spencer’s Additional
Continental Regiment.
