Gallery Exhibits

Washington Crossing Historic Park invites visitors to explore the Visitor Center and its exhibit gallery, which includes regular and rotating exhibits. Learn about key events, see historical artifacts, and immerse yourself in the stories of those who lived through the Revolutionary War. This page serves as a guide to help you understand what you’ll see, the significance of the exhibits, and how to make the most of your visit.

“A Glorious Enterprise; Washington’s Crossing of the Delaware” tells the story of George Washington’s legendary crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas night,1776. The exhibit begins with the Continental Army’s two-week encampment at the Thompson-Neely House. Visitors experience camp life and discover why Washington made the bold decision to lead his army across the icy Delaware to strike Hessian forces in Trenton.

 “Soldier Health in the Revolutionary Pennsylvania: 1776-1778,” sheds light on the conditions of Revolutionary War encampments like the one at the Thompson-Neely House. Although not officially designated as a hospital, many sick and wounded soldiers convalesced there. This exhibit also explores where the army established temporary hospitals in the region and highlights on 18th-century colonial medicine.

 

 

 

Exhibit Gallery Highlights and Must-See Artifacts

  • Fragments from a 1770 iron stove plate unearthed during an archaeological excavation at the Thompson-Neely Mill site(s).
  • A child-friendly interactive area where young visitors can explore reproduction tents and gear, providing an engaging experience that allows children to connect with the history of the era in a unique way.
  • The gallery contains several items on loan from The State Museum of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, including a Hessian musket, a pistol and other military objects used during the revolution.
  • The original headstone of Captain-Lieutenant James Moore, Second in command to Alexander Hamilton in the New York Provincial Artillery. Moore died on December 25, 1776 just hours before the army crossed the river to attack the Hessian outpost at Trenton.

Temporary Exhibits

The park frequently rotates temporary exhibits, offering new experiences. Be sure to check back for updates, including exciting short-term exhibits.

 

 

Additional Exhibits

In addition to the gallery, there are multiple exhibits throughout the park. You can explore curated collections at Thompson-Neely House, McConkey’s Ferry, and other historic locations. Each site offers unique insights into the events and people connected to Washington’s crossing and the Revolutionary War.

Lower Park Visitor Center

 

 

 

 

Thomson-Neely House

Curated rooms inside the house interpret the house during the December, 1776 encampment when the Thompson and Neely Families played host to the Continental Army. Visitors will experience how the family had to live with hundreds of unexpected guests. 

Exhibit Highlights include:

  • The sick room where Captain-Lieutenant James Moore, second in command to Alexander Hamilton, spent his final days.
  • 18th century furnishings
  • Archaeological artifacts shared with the public for the first time by the State Museum of Pennsylvania
  • Reproduction bedding by textile historian Natalie Larson. Larson’s work has been featured in Winterthur and at George Washington’s Mt. Vernon. 

McConkey’s Ferry Inn (opening in 2026)

Period room exhibits interpret the role the ferry house and tavern played during George Washington’s legendary crossing of the icy Delaware River on December 25, 1776. He wrote a letter from here during the grueling crossing to Colonel John Cadwalader in Bristol “…I am determined, as the night is favorable, to cross the River and make an Attack upon Trenton in the Morning…” 

The newly preserved McConkey’s Ferry Inn exhibits will include:

  •  18th century archaeological artifacts throughout.
  • 18th century tavern furnishings
  • Period room exhibits telling the story of the Hessian officers who were imprisoned overnight following the Battle of Trenton.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours and Accessibility: The gallery and exhibits are open during park hours, with detailed information about accessibility available at the visitor center.
  • Additional Exhibits: Don’t miss the other temporary exhibits, available X. X is coming soon!

This is just a glimpse into the rich offerings of Washington Crossing Historic Park. For more details about hours, locations, and operations, visit our Plan Your Visit page.