Washington Crossing Historic Park (Pennsylvania)

The Continental Army assembled at McConkey's Ferry (now Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania) on December 25, 1776. The crossing began at approximately 6:00 PM and was not completed until approximately 3:00 AM on December 26, running several hours behind schedule due to the nor'easter and heavy ice in the river. Durham boats — large, flat-bottomed cargo vessels designed for navigating the Delaware — were used to ferry troops, while flat-bottomed ferries carried artillery and horses. John Glover's Marblehead regiment managed the boats. McConkey's Ferry Inn served as a command post where Washington and his generals coordinated the operation.