Morris Leader

The rededication of a Revolutionary War replica cannon this Sunday will unofficially kick off Morris County’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The event will feature a ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. in front of Acorn Hall in Morristown, just ahead of the Morristown Festival on the Green.

With the festival starting at noon, the public is invited to first stop by to view the restored cannon, which sits on an island in front of Acorn Hall between Morris and Lafayette avenues in Morristown. It has served for about 20 years as a symbol of the rich Revolutionary War history of Morris County, including two winter encampments by General George Washington and his troops and nationally significant landmarks such as the Ford Mansion, Fort Nonsense, and Jockey Hollow.

Unveiling the newly restored cannon will mark one of the first historic events to usher in what promises to be a memorable series of events in Morris County to celebrate our nation’s Semiquincentennial.

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners committed $100,000 earlier this year to the Morris County Economic Development Alliance and the Morris County Tourism Bureau to begin coordinating 250th anniversary celebrations.

“Our 250th is a great opportunity for our county. We invite everyone who wants to learn about the American Revolution to visit, explore, enjoy and learn how Morris County played a pivotal role in establishing the premier nation of the world,” said Commissioner Director Christine Myers.

The replica cannon was first installed outside Acorn Hall, home to the Morris County Historical Society, in the early 2000s by the Greater Morristown Historic Foundation to bring awareness to Morris County’s fundamental role in America’s fight for independence. Over time, it began to succumb to weather conditions requiring complete restoration.

The Greater Morristown Historic Foundation was founded by longtime philanthropist Richard “Dick” Deskovick but has since disbanded after making several significant contributions including Patriots’ Farewell fountain on Morristown Green. In 2023, citizens led by Ryan Dawson came together for its restoration highlighting local philanthropy and community spirit.

“The cannon’s condition was brought to my attention by Jennifer Wehring of the Morristown Partnership,” said Dawson. “She and I knew that once someone took ownership of this project, community members would step up. Between residents and civic organizations we raised necessary funds for restoration.”

For more information contact:

Morristown Partnership: 973-455-1133

Morris County Historical Society: 973-267-3465

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Photo: The Revolutionary War replica cannon ready for its close-up.