The Durham Boat Project

A Historic Collaboration for America’s 250th Anniversary

Arriving at Washington Crossing in 2026

In partnership with The Friends of Washington Crossing Park (FWCP) and the Independence Seaport Museum (ISM), we are embarking on an exciting project to construct a full-scale, 40-foot replica of a Durham boat—the very type of vessel that George Washington and his army used to cross the Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776 at Washington Crossing Historic Park. This major 2026 project will be a centerpiece of the Park’s expanded interpretive offerings as we approach our nation’s 250th anniversary. This exciting project is being brought to life thanks to generous grant support from The McLean Contributionship, the Connelly Foundation, the Albert W. Bader Foundation, and the kind contributions of Chris and Mary Jane Beck, as well as Gordon and Barbara Heiser.

This journey kicks off in May 2025 and will continue through May 2026. Throughout the next year, we invite you to follow the progress of the boat’s construction with regular updates from ISM’s Seaport Boat Shop in Philadelphia, where the boat will be built. In addition to project updates, there will be engaging regular programming and pop-up events throughout the boat’s construction. These events will give visitors a unique behind-the-scenes look at the progress and craftsmanship involved. The journey will culminate in a ribbon-cutting community event where the completed boat will be unveiled at the Washington Crossing Historic Park’s Durham Boat Barn in Bucks County.

Experience History Like Never Before

The boat will be constructed using traditional materials and techniques as much as possible, and once completed, it will be installed along the banks of the Delaware River as part of a new interpretive trail. 

This trail is being developed in partnership with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and 106 Group, experts in cultural heritage planning and exhibit design.

You’ll have the opportunity to climb aboard the replica Durham boat and imagine what it was like to prepare for Washington’s crossing, giving them a hands-on experience. This interactive installation will immerse visitors in the history of the American Revolution, offering a glimpse into the lives of the soldiers who made this journey possible.

The Independence Seaport Museum was chosen for this project due to its expertise in building historic boats. Using their skills, the Boat Shop staff and volunteers will create a historically accurate boat, while incorporating modern modifications to ensure it remains durable for outdoor exposure and ADA accessible.

An Interactive Educational Experience

Once installed, the Durham Boat display will become a permanent feature at Washington Crossing Historic Park. More than just a must-see for history enthusiasts, it will serve as a key element of our hands-on Colonial Days and the newly launched Rescuing the Revolution field trip program, presented in partnership with Americana Corner’s Presenting America initiative.

These immersive educational experiences serve over 10,000 students annually. During their visit, students have the opportunity to dress in period clothing and take part in hands-on activities that connect them to the personal stories of the soldiers who crossed the Delaware—bringing history to life in a meaningful and lasting way.

It will also complement our Annual Crossing Reenactments and daily guided tours, which highlight the essential role these boats played in the success of Washington’s daring plan.

Come Along for the Journey

We encourage you to follow this year-long adventure as the Durham boat takes shape. You’ll get regular updates from the Independence Seaport Museum for the chance to see history in action, as we bring the story of the Durham boats to life for a new generation.

It all kicks off on Sunday, May 18, 2025 at 10:00 AM where you can join ISM educators for Table Saw Talks—a behind-the-scenes experience inside the working boat shop. Enjoy coffee and conversation as ISM educators and skilled shipwrights lead in-depth discussions on the traditions of wooden boat building along the Delaware River. You’ll get an insider’s view of the tools, techniques, materials, and history behind the vessels they preserve and construct. Each session includes a guided tour of the shop and updates on the latest builds. Admission is free for ISM members and $10 for non-members. Additional ticket packages are available for purchase that includes self-guided exploration in award-winning exhibitions, the ability to climb aboard the Olympia, a nineteenth-century cruiser, and a guided tour on the Becuna, a World War II-era submarine. Following the kickoff event, Table Saw Talks will take place on the second Sunday of every month from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

We’re also excited to partner with ISM in offering programs where visitors can get more hands-on and help with the current build stage. These pop-up events will be spaced throughout the project and announced as we get further along, ensuring participants can actively engage with meaningful stages of the construction.

For more details, subscribe to Washington Crossing Historic Park’s newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or X. You’ll get event reminders, the latest news on the project, and sneak peeks at the boat’s progress. For the latest updates, check out the Independence Seaport Museum’s website or social media at @phillyseaport and visit the Seaport Boat Shop to witness the construction process firsthand. This is a unique opportunity to connect with history and watch the past come to life before your eyes. We look forward to sharing this remarkable project with you!