On June 7, 1780, Hannah Caldwell was killed by a British soldier while inside the Caldwell Parsonage. Hannah’s bravery and sacrifice are memorialized on the Union County Seal, which has been in place since 1933. In the artist’s depiction, the seal illustrates that fateful day, showing Hannah courageously positioned between her young son and an enemy soldier. While the seal may seem shocking to some, it’s an important reminder that Hannah’s murder inspired many more New Jerseyans to join the local militia and Continental Army in the fight against tyranny. Unfortunately, the Union County Board of County Commissioners is changing the Union County Seal.

 If the seal is changed, it will remove Hannah and her influence from the public eye, virtually erasing her from the memories of Union County’s future residents and visitors.  A vivid reminder of what spurred the great state of New Jersey to independence will sadly be forgotten.

  Both Hannah and her husband, Rev. James Caldwell, were heroes of the American Revolution.  We as a town, county, and state are proud of their contributions to our nation’s freedom. Almost 250 years later, their story still attracts visitors to their home—the Caldwell Parsonage, 909 Caldwell Avenue, Union, NJ—where they lived with their nine children and where Hannah died.

  Aside from losing historical value, there’s also a monetary reason to keep the seal. Visitors looking to walk in the footsteps of our nation’s founders also mean added revenue for local businesses.  Not knowing about Hannah will mean less motivation to visit.  Also, if the Commissioners move forward with their plan, it will also cost an expenditure of taxpayer money. A new seal must be commissioned, followed by updated signage, stationery, and seals for legal documents.

  Most people, especially students, take a greater interest in history when they find out it happened locally. The seal prominently shows a unique piece of our county's history and helps engage curious minds. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words. Please help us in our mission to preserve our history, honor Hannah Caldwell, and save ourselves the added expense of an unnecessary change.