Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania, US

Over the past weekend, winter storm on the east coast had dumped a good two feet of snow on the ground making this Christmas morning a very white Christmas. Morning traditions included unwrapping presents, exchanging greetings, enjoying a hot cup of cocoa and preparing for a short road trip to observe a unique American event. The annual commemoration of Washington crossing the Delaware River in historic Washington Crossing park. 

George Washington and his troops crossed the Delaware river on Christmas day in 1776. It was a first move in the surprise attack and win against the Hessian forces of Trenton. 

The 900 acre park in New Jersey and Pennsylvania is separated by the narrow Delaware River and is about a 1.5 hour drive from New York City.

As you drive to the park, one observes participant actors of the event beginning to assemble in small groups with their costumes. There are troops, oarsmen and cannon crew. A family event, parents explain the historic event to children, take pictures and listen to interesting stories with the costumed participants. Actors are friendly to share their roles and contributions during the event.

Re-creation of the event began at 1pm after speeches by the park authority and a congressman. Announcement of a grant of $400K from Lockheed-Martin to the park is applauded by the crowd. I learn later, the event was on the brink of cancellation because of lack of funds and current recession.

With the crowd standing in chilly weather behind red, white and blue ropes (yes, it is symbolic) actor portraying George Washington arrives with his troops. Apparently there is a selection process a la American Idol to chose "George Washington" of the year.  Observers nearby whisper how demoralized the troops were during that time and there are references to Thomas Paine and Common Sense.

George Washington after initial consultation with his officers addresses his troops...

".. These are times that try men's souls; the summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph... " 

Source: Thomas Paine - American Crisis

Upon completion of his address the troops along with their cannons cross the Delaware River in their Durham boats.

Some points of interest in the park....Johnson Ferry House believed to be where Washington and his officers discussed the strategy, now has artifacts that represent 18th century life. Durham boat house nearby has replicas of heavy wooden 50 ft boats, which were originally used to transport 5-15 tons of products including iron ore and McConkey's Ferry inn, a guards post during Continental Army's 1776 camping in Bucks County.

Year after year, this traditional enactment attracts visitors from around the country. Great commemorative event to reflect on events this day in American history.