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Battle of Trenton - 1776 LbNA #6023

Owner:Adoptable
Plant date:Oct 1, 2003
Location:
City:Washington Crossing
County:Bucks
State:Pennsylvania
Boxes:2
Found by: Wii Wanderers
Last found:Aug 20, 2008
Status:FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF
Last edited:Oct 1, 2003

** Sections of the park were hit badly by the recent flooding. The area holding "Victory" may still be off-limits. Check to see if the access barriers have been removed.

Overview

The events that took place along this area of the Delaware River on Christmas Day 1776, caused the defeat of the British and Hessian troops at Trenton and contributed to the winning of the Revolutionary War.

Location & Details:

Washington Crossing Historical Park, 3 ½ miles south of New Hope, PA on Route 32 (River Rd.)

Park in the lot by the Thompson-Neeley House (on the left heading south)if there’s room, or across the street in the Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve lot.

Park is open Tuesday – Sunday (9-4pm). Closed Mondays.

Historical Background of This Area:

The Thompson-Neeley House, where your hunt begins, is nationally recognized as a fine example of early colonial architecture. It was constructed in 3 stages, beginning with the central portion in 1702, when John Pidcock lived there with his wife Hannah and their six children. Later additions were made in 1757 and 1778. In 1776, the house became the headquarters of General Lord Sterling (William Alexander), who was in charge of colonial troops stationed along this area of the Delaware to prevent the British from crossing over to Pennsylvania from New Jersey. On his staff at the time were Lieutenant James Monroe, who became the 5th President of the United States, Captain Augustus Washington, (both of whom were wounded at the Battle of Trenton) and Captain James Moore of the New York Artillery who died here on Christmas Day. This hunt is dedicated to Captain Moore and his horse “Victory”.

*** Both boxes in place as of 5/11/05

"VICTORY"

Placed by Ed on 10/1/03
Trails mainly flat - easy


After parking, take the trail by the Red Cedar tree that was 27 years old when George Washington was here, and go past “Tarzan’s” tree, which points the way. After crossing the canal bridge, take the towpath south, keeping an eye out for the flying “Raptor”. Pay a visit. Look over your surroundings, taking a moment to study the gravestones which are dedicated to unknown soldiers, and Captain Moore.

Retrace your steps back to the bridge, at which point you will take the east trail, passing General Sullivan's shelter. Continue along the path as it turns north, first passing a "Necessary House"; then General Glover's shelter; and then two "Iron Candy Canes" on your left. Stay on the trail as it continues north keeping an eye out for "Bill & Lucy's" Beech tree. Start exploring. Look for the tree stump with all the woodpecker shavings around the bottom. You will find "Victory" cradled at the base. There is a log by the trail for sitting and stamping. After replacement, head back to the Thompson-Neeley House.

"CAPTAIN MOORE'S INSIGNIA"

Placed in new location by Ed on 4/1/04

You will see a stone marker honoring John Pidcock, one of the earliest settlers in this area. Nearby is a small wooden bridge. The flood caused by "Ivan" dislodgrd it somewhat; so it's going to take a "highstepper" to get onto it. Once over, follow the narrow trail until you come to an old Grist Mill. (Note: If more convenient, park across the street and start at the Grist Mill). Check out your surroundings before heading up the hill to Captain Moore's shelter. You are now in the vicinity of the Bowman Hill Wild Flower Preserve which is surrounded by a high iron gate at the top of the hill. (It was installed to keep out the deer). The Preserve is home to several rare and endangered species of flowers, shrubs and trees, and it is open to everyone.

Now, on to Captain Moore's insignia. From the shelter, walk down the hill until you reach the vicinity of the Grist Mill again. Nearby is an old tree which has sprouted 4 children. In the cradle is nestled the Captain's insignia. NOTE: During the months of April through October, this preserve and the surrounding area are heavily visited; so take precautions when stamping and replacing.

Ed