Depictions of Washington crossing the Delaware on Christmas night in 1776 are etched into the American psyche — so much so that Crossing reenactments in Pennsylvania attract thousands of visitors each year. But did you know that after the Crossing, New Jersey saw more revolutionary battles and skirmishes than any other American colony?

Learn what happened when the troops landed in New Jersey!

December 8th, 2024
11am-3:30 pm

Admission is free, although a $10 per carload donation is suggested!

This will not include entry to the Pennsylvania Park’s activities, although we encourage you to “Cross the Delaware” by foot to support their event. Note: The bridge will close to car traffic at 10:30 am.

PARKING INFORMATION:

Due to construction, all visitors must park in the main park. Parking will not be permitted in the lower park or along the highway.

Enter on Route 546 / Washington Crossing Pennington Road. Use Google Maps link: 843V+X5 Titusville, Hopewell Township, NJ

SHUTTLES WILL BE PROVIDED.

The Washington Crossing Park Association (WCPA), NJ State Park historians, and the First Rhode Island Regiment, will provide an opportunity to experience both the Crossing and the March to Trenton through the eyes of the men and women who lived it.

This will happen in sync with Washington Crossing Historic Park of Pennsylvania’s “First Crossing” rehearsal event.

Reenactors who cross with Washington will be met by Ronald Rinaldi, portraying General Nathaneal Greene, who will invite them to an encampment in the Lower Park, anchored by members of the First Rhode Island Regiment. The First RI will portray the roles of Black soldiers, sailors, artillerists, marines and musicians. They will be supported by:

• John Lamb's Artillery

• Motts Artillery

• 17th Regiment of Infantry portraying the Hunterdon Militia

• New Jersey Fifes and Drums

Near the encampment will be a Haybale Theater where historians Leslie Bramlett and Noah Lewis will speak on the contributions of New Jersey soldiers and families, with a focus on the contributions of African Americans both free and enslaved.

Visitors will also be welcomed at the nearby Nelson House, where volunteers from the Garden Club of Trenton will serve free hot cider and donuts in front of a roaring fire. A food truck will be on hand!

We hope you’ll join us for this exciting New Jersey event.

Our partners are the Washington Crossing State Park (a division of the NJ DEP); the Washington Crossing Park Association, and the First Rhode Island Regiment.