This illustration, commissioned by the Monmouth County Historical Association, shows an unsung moment from the American Revolutionary War. Troop movements were slow enough to give advance warning to areas where they were likely to commandeer houses. This allowed Elizabeth Covenhoven and her enslaved staff time to remove all furniture, valuables, and even utensils and provisions before the arrival of Loyalist soldiers led by General Henry Clinton. Here, we see her defiance as she stands in her all-but-empty home.

Original sketches

First edition canvas print