The Durham Boat Project

A Historic Collaboration for America’s 250th Anniversary

Now at Washington Crossing Historic Park

The Friends of Washington Crossing Park (FWCP) and the Independence Seaport Museum (ISM) have partnered to construct a full-scale, 40-foot replica of a Durham boat—the type of vessel George Washington and his army used to cross the Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776. The replica will become a centerpiece of the park’s expanded interpretive offerings as our nation commemorates its 250th anniversary. This historic project has been made possible through the generous support of the Albert W. Bader Foundation, Americana Corner, Bucks County Foundation, Chris and Mary Jane Beck, the Connelly Foundation, Gordon and Barbara Heisler, Lorna Hainesworth, Pennsylvania Society of the Cincinnati Charitable Foundation, and The McLean Contributionship.

Construction began at ISM’s Seaport Boat Shop in Philadelphia in May 2025. In July 2026, the boat was relocated to Washington Crossing Historic Park, where visitors can watch the final stages of construction inside the Seaport Boat Shop. The project will culminate in a community ribbon-cutting event celebrating the completed boat and its permanent installation.

Experience History Like Never Before

The boat was constructed using traditional materials and techniques whenever possible. Once the finishing work is complete, 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 through an immersive, 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 selected for this project because of its expertise in building historic boats. ISM’s Seaport Boat Shop staff and volunteers created a historically accurate replica while incorporating modern modifications to make the installation durable for outdoor exposure and accessible to visitors with disabilities.

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 Preserving 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.

Table Saw Talks

We encourage you to follow this historic project as the Durham boat takes shape, with opportunities to see history in action as we bring the story of the Durham boats to life for a new generation.

Construction began at the Independence Seaport Museum in May 2025, where ISM educators and skilled shipwrights introduced visitors to the traditions of wooden boatbuilding along the Delaware River. Throughout the project, visitors received a behind-the-scenes look at the tools, techniques, materials, and history involved in constructing these remarkable vessels.

In July 2026, the 40-foot Durham boat was relocated to Washington Crossing Historic Park. Visitors received a special preview during the park’s Independence Day Celebration and can continue watching the final stages of construction inside the Boat Barn.

There are two special opportunities to engage with the project at Washington Crossing Historic Park: Sunday, August 16, and Sunday, September 13, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Visitors can meet David Dormond, Director of the Seaport Boat Shop at the Independence Seaport Museum; learn about traditional boatbuilding tools and techniques; explore the history of the Durham boats used during Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware; and watch as he completes the replica’s finishing work.

This is a pay-what-you-wish program. Advance registration is required, and donations of any amount are greatly appreciated.

Come Along for the Journey

Additional details about the boat’s official installation and ribbon-cutting ceremony will be announced as the project progresses. Follow along as we prepare for the grand debut of this extraordinary addition to Washington Crossing Historic Park.

For project updates, event announcements, and behind-the-scenes looks at the boat’s progress, subscribe to Washington Crossing Historic Park’s newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or X. You can also follow the Independence Seaport Museum on its website and social media at @phillyseaport. We look forward to sharing the final stages of this remarkable project with you.