By December of 1776, General George Washington had lost New York City and the Continental Army had been chased through New Jersey across the Delaware River to Pennsylvania. Low on supplies and morale, the battered army is exhausted, and the American Rebellion is in danger of collapsing entirely. Until General Washington conceives of a daring plan to strike back at the British and their Hessian mercenaries. "The Crossing" (2000, PG, 100 mins) tells the dramatic tale of Washington and the famous crossing of the Delaware. It won a Peabody Award and was nominated for a Primetime Emmy.
Is the film as accurate as it is dramatic? Historians Chad Johnson, site manager of New Windsor Cantonment and Knox's Headquarters State Historic Sites, and Karen Pena, of Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site, will discuss the real history behind the film, and take audience questions.
This program is free and open to the public. Seating is first come, first served. Registration is recommended but not required. Refreshments provided by the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall.
To register, call 914-965-4027 or email philipsemanorhall@parks.ny.gov. Directions and parking information available here.
The “Historian & A Movie” series invites historians to Philipse Manor Hall to explore the real history behind some of Hollywood’s most famous films. Historians offer commentary on history, accuracy, film trivia, and more.
Watch the trailer for "The Crossing" (2000):
