Credit: Joseph Kaczmarek/NewtownPANow.com
Washington Crossing Historic Park in Upper Makefield Township is set to host two public reenactments of General George Washington’s legendary crossing of the Delaware River, organizers announced.
The events, scheduled for December 10 and December 25, will mark 247 years since the original event that played a key role in the Revolutionary War.
The first reenactment is slated for Sunday, December 10 and will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring the main crossing at 1 p.m.
Admission fees for this event are $9 for adults, $5 for children ages 5 to 11, with free entry for children under 5. A family rate of $25 is available for two adults and two children.
Both events will take place at the historic park located along River Road in Washington Crossing.
The reenactments not only offer a chance to witness the daring river crossing, but they also include various colonial-era activities and demonstrations in the historic village.
The reenactments will feature a large number of reenactors listening to an inspiring speech by ‘George Washington’ before rowing across the river in replica Durham boats.
The Friends of Washington Crossing Park announced that the event narrator will be Jason Q. Bohm, a U.S. Marine with more than 30 years of service.
During the event, the park will also be hosting children’s author Jenny Cote, who will share two of her novels on the Revolution.
While the crossings are contingent upon safe river conditions, the park assures that ceremonies, speeches, and other activities will proceed regardless of the weather, officials said.
A second reenactment will occur on Christmas Day, Monday, December 25, from noon to 3 p.m., with the crossing scheduled at 1 p.m. The event is open to the public free of charge.
On December 10 on the New Jersey side of the river, that state’s Washington Crossing State Park will host “Washington’s Landing in New Jersey” on from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The event will coincide with the crossing rehearsal in Bucks County.
The New Jersey program will teach about the experience of the crossing and march to Trenton as seen through the eyes of historical figures.
The event, suitable for all ages, will include reenactments and educational activities.
Admission is free, but a voluntary donation of $10 per car is encouraged to support the event’s expenses.
