Full-Scale Durham Boat Replica Taking Shape; Set For 2026 Debut At Washington Crossing

WASHINGTON CROSSING, PA — A full-scale, 40 foot replica of a Durham Boat - the same type of vessel Gen. George Washington and his troops used to cross the icy Delaware River on Dec. 25, 1776 - is continuing to take shape at the Independence Seaport Museum in Philadelphia.

To honor America’s 250th anniversary, the Friends of Washington Crossing Historic Park and the Independence Seaport Museum are partnering to construct the boat, which will be unveiled in 2026 as an interactive centerpiece at the park.

The project is moving into an exciting new stage, according to the folks at Washington Crossing Historic Park.

With the majority of the white oak frames successfully steam-bent and secured to their molds, the crew at Independence Seaport Museum is reportedly working diligently to arrange them on the strongback, the structure on which the boat will take shape

According to the boat builders, this phase requires precision. Each frame and mold must be perfectly plumb and level when fastened to the strongback. This consistency ensures accuracy throughout the entirety of the build. Even the smallest measuring mistake could compound and create significant challenges in later stages. Over the coming weeks, the Seaport Museum team will focus on securing the molds, building the backbone of the vessel, and finalizing structural details in preparation for planking.

“This project brings the bold spirit of Washington’s crossing to life in an unforgettable way,” said Jennifer Martin, executive director of the Friends of Washington Crossing Park in announcing the project earlier this year. “By combining historic craftsmanship with immersive interpretation, we’re not only honoring the past — we’re creating new opportunities for visitors of all ages to connect with the story of the American Revolution.”

The Durham Boat Project will culminate in May 2026 with the launch and unveiling of the completed boat at Washington Crossing Historic Park’s Durham Boat Barn. The project is being brought to life thanks to the generous support of The McLean Contributionship, Connelly Foundation, Albert W. Bader Foundation, Chris and Mary Jane Beck, and Gordon and Barbara Heiser.

The boat is taking shape inside the Seaport Boat Shop in Philadelphia. (Washington Crossing Historic Park)

“The Seaport Boat Shop at Independence Seaport Museum is excited to partner with Friends of Washington Crossing Park to replicate the 40-foot Durham boat in celebration of the country’s
Semiquincentennial,” said Dave Dormond, director of the Seaport boat shop and waterfront operations. “This vessel symbolizes not only the effort and determination of those who fought for independence but also the skills and craftsmanship of local shipwrights who strived to build a stronger and more prosperous Philadelphia through its connection to the Delaware River.”

The replica boat is being built at ISM’s Seaport Boat Shop in Philadelphia using traditional materials and techniques wherever possible.

The completed Durham boat will be permanently installed along a new interpretive trail at Washington Crossing Historic Park, designed in collaboration with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and 106 Group, leaders in cultural heritage planning.

The hands-on, ADA-accessible exhibit will allow visitors to climb aboard the boat and immerse themselves in the story of the soldiers who crossed the Delaware in a bold bid for American independence.

Once in place, the replica will become a dynamic centerpiece of the park’s interpretive programming, including field trips, reenactments, and guided tours. It will serve as a key element of the park’s Colonial Days and new "Rescuing the Revolution" field trip program, presented in partnership with Americana Corner’s Preserving America initiative. Each year, more than 10,000 schoolchildren will have the opportunity to engage directly with the boat, don period clothing, and participate in activities that bring Revolutionary history to life.

Throughout the construction process, the Friends of Washington Crossing and the Seaport Museum are hosting pop-up events at key milestones, allowing visitors to lend a hand and contribute to this historic build.

Whether you’re a history buff, student, family, or curious explorer, the Durham Boat Project offers a rare chance to witness — and even participate in — the making of a monumental piece of American history — one plank at a time.

The Independence Seaport Museum invites the public to follow the progress of the project on social media or by visiting the shop on the second Sunday of each month for one of its Table Saw Talks, where updates on the Durham Boat reconstruction are shared with visitors and locals.

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 its fundraising and the generous support of donors and members, the organization is able to maintain and sustain the 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 at the park. The group also holds a number of annual events, several fundraisers and more. Visit washingtoncrossingpark.org/ to learn more.