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Washington Crosses the Delaware

Changing the Tide of History

By Marilyn Loeser

Go ahead. Give yourself permission to imagine a time when farmers, merchants and carpenters came together to establish the Continental Army and fight the mighty British Empire for the right to make their own laws and policies. A time when men used their intellect, personal finances, and in some cases, gave their lives to create a new nation based on freedom and democracy.

After all, you’re at Washington’s Crossing, Pennsylvania.

Washington’s Crossing Historic Park

It was here, at Washington’s Crossing Historic Park, that George Washington led his ragged troops across the ice-choked Delaware River and assaulted the unsuspecting Hessians at Trenton, New Jersey on Christmas Day, 1776.

This strategic location on the Delaware River drew Washington to Bucks County after the disastrous Long Island campaign earlier in the year. The Delaware proved a natural barricade, behind which Washington planned his successful surprise attack.

The Continental Army had little to celebrate that Christmas and seemed beaten by hunger and cold until their victory over the Hessians. This battle was followed by the Second Battle of Trenton on January 2, 1777, and the Battle of Princeton a day later. The victories bolstered sagging morale, changing the course of the American Revolution.

Wandering along the river, stopping at monuments and statues this summer day, it’s hard to image the bitter wind blowing off the river, the lack of proper clothing, shelter and supplies these men endured so that they — and we — could be free.

Just reflecting on what was and what is because of a bold Christmas Day attack more than two centuries ago is, in itself, worth the visit.

If you go:
The 500-acre site and recreational area includes the 100-acre Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve and observation tower, several picnic areas and the restored village which includes period houses and a black smith’s shop.

The park also offers a small museum and video presentation chronically Washington and his troops’ time here on the shores of the Delaware.

Open Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.
Closed certain holidays, except Christmas Day, Memorial Day, July 4 and Labor Day.
Hours may change on a seasonal basis.

Admission: adults $5, senior citizens $4 and children $2.

For more information check the website: http://www.phmc.state.pa.us/bhsm/toh/washington/washingtoncrossing.asp.

All photos by Marilyn Loeser

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