Newtown Yardley, PA Historical Sights Announcements

Friends of Washington Crossing Park Receives $536,330 National Park Service Grant for Historic Thompson-Neely House Rehabilitation

WASHINGTON CROSSING, Pa. – The National Park Service has awarded the Friends of Washington Crossing Park a $536,330 grant through its Semiquincentennial Grant Program, funded by the Historic Preservation Fund, to support interior rehabilitation work at the Thompson-Neely House, one of the most significant Revolutionary War sites within Washington Crossing Historic Park.

This project will address critical preservation needs within the 18th-century structure, including plaster and paint restoration, floor and chimney stabilization, updated electrical systems, insulation, and moisture control to protect artifacts on exhibit in the house and ensure visitor safety. The grant will also fund a KOCOA military terrain analysis to help update the park’s National Historic Landmark designation, deepening understanding of the military and civilian experiences connected to the Ten Crucial Days of 1776.

The Thompson-Neely House and Farmstead served as an encampment site for part of the Continental Army in December 1776. Though never officially designated a hospital, the house sheltered soldiers who were sick or injured as they awaited new orders in the days before Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware River. Among those who camped on the property were two Virginia officers, future U.S. President James Monroe and William Washington, a cousin of the Commander-in-Chief, both of whom were later wounded at the Battle of Trenton. Captain-Lieutenant James Moore of the New York Artillery died there on Christmas Day and is buried nearby, along with others who perished during the encampment.

“The Thompson-Neely House is one of the most powerful reminders of the human experience of the Revolution,” said Jennifer Martin, Executive Director of the Friends of Washington Crossing Park. “Here, soldiers rested, recovered, and in some cases gave their lives in the days leading up to Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware. As we approach the 250th anniversary of that pivotal moment, this restoration will allow us to honor their sacrifice, preserve the home that sheltered them, and share how the war impacted not only the military but civilians from every walk of life. Our interpretation of the house helps visitors examine how the Revolution touched all Americans—and what those shared experiences can still teach us today.”

“We are grateful to the Friends of Washington Crossing Park for their partnership on this grant application on behalf of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources,” said Park Manager Corey Shannon. “This project represents a significant investment in the preservation of Washington Crossing Historic Park and one of its most important historic structures. We look forward to working with the Friends and the National Park Service to restore the Thompson-Neely House and ensure it is ready to welcome and educate visitors during the park’s 250th-anniversary era and beyond.”

“The Semiquincentennial is an opportunity for the nation to recognize and reflect on the diverse cultures, events, and places that have helped shape our country,” said former National Park Service Director Chuck Sams. “Through the Semiquincentennial Grant Program, the National Park Service is supporting projects that showcase the many places and stories that contributed to the evolution of the American experience.”

Originally built around 1740 and expanded several times through the late 18th century, the Thompson-Neely House stands as both a family home and a silent witness to the hardships and humanity of war. Once the centerpiece of a bustling milling complex along Pidcock Creek, the site now includes restored outbuildings such as a smokehouse, chicken coop, and barn, home to Washington Crossing Historic Park’s heritage flock of Hog Island sheep.

The Thompson-Neely House remains central to the park’s interpretive programs, serving as the setting for guided tours, student field trips, and living history experiences that illuminate how the Revolution affected ordinary people as profoundly as it did generals and soldiers.

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About the Semiquincentennial Grant Program: Created by Congress in 2020 and administered by the National Park Service through the Historic Preservation Fund, the Semiquincentennial Grant Program commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The program supports the preservation of cultural resources associated with the nation’s founding and its enduring democratic principles.

About Friends of Washington Crossing Park: The Friends of Washington Crossing Park shares the powerful story of General George Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas Night 1776 and interprets its ongoing impact on world history for both today’s citizens and future generations. Through the fundraising and the generous support of our donors and members, we are able to maintain and sustain this significant historic site and welcome thousands of schoolchildren, families, individuals and groups every year. In partnership with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Friends offer guided interpretive tours and educational programming in the park. The group also holds a number of annual events, several fundraisers and more. Visit washingtoncrossingpark.org to learn more.