Washington Crossing State Park

On December 25, 1776, the icy waters of the Delaware River provided the setting for one of the pivotal events of the American Revolution. The Continental Army had little to celebrate that Christmas and seemed beat by hunger and cold. After crossing the rough winter river at night, General George Washington and the Continental Army landed at Johnson’s Ferry, at the site now known as Washington Crossing State Park. At 4 am, they began their march to Trenton where they defeated the Hessian troops in an unexpected attack. This battle was quickly followed by the Second Battle of Trenton on January 2, 1777, and the Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777.

Originally preserved for its historical significance, the park is also well known for its trails and wildlife habitat. A wide variety of migrating birds use the stream and ravine as a resting place and for nesting. Many bird species winter in the park, creating a perfect location for bird observation year round. Among the most notable species of wildlife are whitetail deer, fox, raccoon, great-horned owl, screech owl, red-tailed hawk, red-shouldered hawk and Eastern bluebird. The park also is popular for picnicking and, in the winter, for cross-country skiing on existing hiking trails.

Some of the special park facilities include:

Open Air Theatre

The theatre is operated by the Washington Crossing Association of NJ from June through August. A summer festival of music and drama is presented on an open outdoor stage. For more information, call (609) 737-1826.

Swan Historical Foundation Collection

The Swan collection represents a living military history laboratory of the American Revolution. Over 700 original objects interpret the era, circa 1745 through 1789. Open Wednesday through Sunday, year round. For more information, call (609) 737-9303.

Johnson Ferry House

This early 18th-century gambrel roof farmhouse and tavern near the Delaware River was owned by Garret Johnson, who operated a 490-acre colonial plantation and a ferry service across the river in the 1700s. The house was likely used briefly by General Washington and other officers at the time of the Christmas night crossing of the Delaware. The keeping room, bedchamber and textile room are furnished with local period pieces, probably similar to the furniture used by the Johnson family from 1740 to 1770. The site also includes an 18th-century kitchen garden and an orchard of period fruit trees. Living history demonstrations are frequently held on weekends. For information, call (609) 737-2515. Open Wednesday through Sunday, year round.

Washington Crossing State Park is located at 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, in Titusville. For general information about the park, call (609) 737-0623.

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Author: C. Cohen