News and Events

  In preparation for the park’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the Friends of Washington Crossing Park (FWCP) are excited to welcome Bryanna Galvan as its new Director of Development. In this role, Bryanna will lead the FWCP development team in expanding fundraising efforts with a focus on long-term sustainability and deepening community engagement. She is responsible for implementing a comprehensive development strategy that includes individual giving, major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grants, and partnerships with private foundations. Bryanna joined FWCP in April 2025, bringing a proven track record in nonprofit fundraising and corporate engagement. Prior to this role, she served as Read More

In preparation for the park’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the Friends of Washington Crossing Park is thrilled to welcome Kenneth A. Gavin as Senior Consultant for Living History Initiatives. In this role, Ken will help develop and expand educational programs that showcase the park’s rich military history. He will play a vital part in enhancing living history programming and special events at the park including the park’s signature event, the Annual Christmas Crossing Reenactments. Ken is a seasoned professional with nearly 25 years of experience in the fields of history, public relations, and senior management in the non-profit sector. He has Read More

April is Membership Month, making it the perfect time to join the Friends of Washington Crossing Park. As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive perks like discounts on park programs, invitations to member-only events, and the joy of supporting this historic treasure year-round. Spring is the ideal season to explore the park’s beauty, history, and activities, so here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your visit while celebrating your membership! Morning: Nature In the Upper Park Morning Hike on the Trails: Begin your day by embarking on a peaceful hike through the park’s nature trails in the upper Read More

Each April during National Volunteer Month, we take time to celebrate the incredible volunteers who make Washington Crossing Historic Park a truly special place. Their dedication helps us bring history to life for thousands of visitors each year—whether through special events, tours, education programs, or reenactments. There are always a few volunteers who go above and beyond in their commitment to our mission, and we’re proud to recognize them with our Volunteer Awards. These honors will be presented at our annual Volunteer Picnic in September. Join us in congratulating our 2025 award recipients! Volunteer of the Year – Marcia Kasper Read More

  The vivid memories of my childhood, filled with grass-stained petticoats and the adventurous construction of hay bale forts, are treasures I will cherish for the rest of my life. I will never forget the rich, earthy scent of camp, mingled with the smoke from the fire, a fragrance woven into the very fabric of my being. In between the endless kitchen campfires, the dining fly was filled with the sighs and complaints of my mother and adopted aunts, each expressing the same frustration; while the men enjoyed their lively games of war, the women were left to toil over Read More

  In preparation for the park’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the Friends of Washington Crossing Park is excited to welcome Samantha Allison as its Civilian Programs Coordinator. In this role, she will develop and oversee educational programs that highlight the essential contributions of non-combatants during the American Revolution.  Through her work, Samantha will bring to life the diverse stories of civilians who supported the fight for independence beyond the battlefield, helping visitors connect more deeply with their experiences. Samantha Allison is an independent researcher and historical interpreter with over 30 years of experience in reenacting. She is dedicated to uncovering Read More

We are thrilled to share the incredible dedication and teamwork that went into restoring a cherished park artifact—one of our cannons. Thanks to the combined efforts of our amazing staff,  and volunteers, the cannon is now ready to stand tall for this year’s reenactment of the First Crossing on December 8, 2024! This labor of love began with the dismantling of the cannon, with each piece carefully taken apart. From there, the team moved to cleaning and sanding the weathered surfaces, removing years of wear, and preparing it for a fresh coat of historically accurate paint. New hardware was installed Read More

  Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze (pronounced “loit-seh,” 1816-1868) is America’s best-known historical painting and one of the best-known works of art in history. Here are some facts about the painter and his artistry that may be of interest to you: — Leutze was born in Germany but came to America with his family in 1825. They settled in Philadelphia, but after his father’s death in 1831 the youth had to work to support his mother and sister, which he did by selling his portraiture. Recognizing Leutze’s talent, several wealthy benefactors elected to subsidize his artistic education by Read More