Union County Hosts Revolutionary War Lecture on Colonel Tye & Captain Huddy

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, invites residents to attend a special historical lecture, "New Jersey's Revolutionary Rivalry: The Untold Story of Colonel Tye and Captain Huddy," presented by author Rick Geffken.

The event will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the Elizabeth Public Library, 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth. This program is part of Union County's ongoing efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, highlighting lesser-known stories that shaped both local and national history.

"Union County is proud to support programs that bring history to life for our residents," said Union County 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-stories that challenge perspectives, deepen understanding, and connect our communities to the past in meaningful ways."

Author Rick Geffken will explore the intense and complex rivalry between Colonel Tye, a formerly enslaved man who became a Loyalist leader, and Captain Joshua Huddy, a prominent figure in the Monmouth County militia. Their conflict reflects the deeply divided loyalties and personal stakes that defined the Revolutionary War in New Jersey.

Following the Battle of Monmouth in 1778, warfare in the region shifted to smaller, localized conflicts between militias and Loyalist groups. The escalating tensions between Tye and Huddy ultimately contributed to a series of events that drew international attention and impacted diplomatic negotiations during the war.

"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, liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Advisory Board. "By highlighting figures like Colonel Tye, we are able to tell a broader story-one that reflects the diverse experiences and complexities of our nation's founding."

The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance. A QR code for registration will be available on promotional materials.

For more information on this and other Cultural and Heritage programs, visit www.ucnj.org /250.