Rev. Benjamin du Bois

was pastor of the Freehold Dutch Reformed Church for more than sixty years and an earnest advocate of American Independance.

ten children born at Freehold

Anecdote: Benjamin Du Bois (1739-1827), a patriot preacher, often shoul- dered his musket and knapsack and entered the ranks much to the disgust of his Tory friends. He was born in Salem County; died in Monmouth County, N. J. Occupation: Pastor of the Monmouth Dutch Church - Benjamin was a very famous pastor and was with the Monmouth church for over 50 years Death: Age: 88 Aug 21 1827

 Freehold Township, Monmouth, NJ, USA Burial:

 Marlboro, Monmouth County, New Jersey, USA

Anecdote: Benjamin Du Bois (1739-1827), a patriot preacher, often shoul- dered his musket and knapsack and entered the ranks much to the disgust of his Tory friends. He was born in Salem County; died in Monmouth County, N. J. Occupation: Pastor of the Monmouth Dutch Church - Benjamin was a very famous pastor and was with the Monmouth church for over 50 years

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11761703/benjamin-dubois

American Revolutionary War Veteran.
Rev. Benjamin DuBois was called the "dominie".

The proper American pronunciation for the name DeBois: it rhymes with voice.

HISTORY OF OLD TENNENT CHURCH, NEW JERSEY; Benjamin and Phoebe had 10 children: Joseph July 9, 1797-Aug. 27, 1798; Franscyntie June 6, 1769-married Dec 4, 1787 to Teunis G. VanDerveer born 1757; Margaret (our line) born April 13, 1771; Teunis DeNise born Feb 23, 1773; Sophia born Nove 12, 1775; Daniel born Feb 23, 1778; Benjamin born March 4, 1780 Catherine born March 8, 1782; Elizabeth born March 3, 1785; Mary born Jan 14, 1790 married George Conover and had one son John born Oct 14, 1820.

Benjamin and Phoebe also raised a grandson, Benjamin Isaac DuBois when his father died. Five of their children moved to Franklin, Ohio. They sent a letter to New Jersey which said "We are satisfied. We have found homes. Come and help us make this valley the garden spot of the world". Several letters are among our collection, written in 1826 and 1839 from Benjamin and Phoebe to the family at Franklin, Ohio.

Benjamin was called the fighting preacher and is listed in the history books during the Revolutionary War. Pension # S12816. Minister of the Freehold Presbyterian Church (Freehold, New Jersey) from 1764 to 1827 = 63 years, the Dutch Reformed Church. Also found listed as Marlboro, New Jersey Church.
They are buried in above the ground vaults just outside the church door.

Their son Daniel kept a diary of their trip beginning April 30, 1804 as they moved to Ohio." Philadelphia, Lancaster, Elizabethtown - staying with friends. Tried sleeping in wagon, Elizabeth was too afraid. Afterward always stayed in homes. Reached mountains on May 5th. Sunday spent all day at the tavern (Inn). Crossing Ohio following route by Chillicothe, the capitol of Ohio (it was then). May 16 reached Little Miami River. May 17 started up Little Miami to Franklin, Ohio, approximately 19 miles then to Art Vanderveer's 2 miles. 18 days averaged 40 miles per day."

Letters from Benjamin & Femmentje written in 1825 & 1829 to their 5 children and grandchildren who moved west to OHIO are posted in Femmentje DeNise DuBois page.

The original sketchings are in The Cincinnati Art Museum, 2016. The are put on display in a rotation. Call before you go see them.

Inscription
In memory of Rev. Benjamin DuBois, who departed this life August 21st, 1827, aged 88 years, 4 months and 11 days. He was Pastor of the United Dutch Church of Freehold and Middletown 52 years. In his deportment he set a worthy example to flock. In his preaching he was sound, faithful and affectionate.
He lived in peace, in peace he died.
His Master's glory near his heart.
He preached of Christ and none beside,
And with him now enjoys his part."

They are buried above ground near the church door.