On 22 June, the commander of the New Jersey Militia, Maj. Gen. Philemon Dickinson, sent word to Washington that Clinton’s army was advancing north toward Trenton. The militia commander and his soldiers skirmished with the British troops at Crosswicks Creek on 23 June in an attempt to slow down their march.
"At one oClock this morning, I received information, that the Enemy were endeavouring to surround us, with a strong detachment which marched last Evening from Holly, the Informant said, they intended to take possession, of Crosswicks, & the Drawbridge, whilst their main body moved on, in our rear—I thought our situation very precarious, therefore am now preparing to cross, the Creek (Crosswicks) having called in all the scouting Parties. Genl Maxwell with his Brigade, & part of the Militia, will take post, at Crosswicks bridge—myself near the Drawbridge, where I shall throw up two small works, as the Ground is very advantageous, & will cost them some trouble."
Maj. Gen. Philemon Dickinson to Gen. George Washington, 22 June 1778www.founders.archives.gov