Editing Washington Crossing (section)

== Washington Crossing Historic Park ==

The site of Washington's crossing is preserved as Washington Crossing Historic Park, with units on both the Pennsylvania and New Jersey sides of the Delaware River. The Pennsylvania park, in Bucks County, encompasses the ferry landing where the crossing began and includes the Thompson-Neely House, which served as a headquarters during the operation. Historic structures from the 18th century have been preserved, and the park maintains reproduction Durham boats used in annual reenactments of the crossing. The visitor center houses exhibits on the crossing and the Trenton-Princeton campaign, including reproductions of period weapons and equipment.<ref name="nps">{{cite web |url=https://www.nps.gov/places/washington-crossing-state-historic-park.htm |title=Washington Crossing State Historic Park |publisher=National Park Service |access-date=December 29, 2025}}</ref>

The annual reenactment of the crossing, held each Christmas Day, draws thousands of spectators who gather to watch volunteers in period costume row Durham boats across the Delaware. Weather permitting—the reenactment has been cancelled in some years due to ice or high water—the event recreates the spirit of Washington's desperate gamble. The park is open year-round, though some buildings and facilities have seasonal hours. Washington Crossing Historic Park offers an opportunity to stand at the place where the American Revolution was saved from destruction, where desperate men set out across a frozen river to strike a blow for independence.<ref name="nps"/>