Washington Crossing Park lecturer and guide describes events that happened on Park land
At the 1937 reunion a Mr. DeLacey, lecturer and guide at the Washington Crossing Park, gave a most interesting and instructive talk. He mentioned a venerable oak tree, 80 feet in height, the brow of which formed a platform. This old landmark had been struck by lightning. This spot has been found to be an archeologist’s paradise. Jasper, the most beautiful stone in Bucks County, can be found here. It was also concluded that the Turtle Clan of Indians lived in the area of the park.
He also mentioned that John Pidcock had settled here prior to l684, and that in l692 a Pidcock child was buried on Bowman’s Hill. Mr. DeLacey also mentioned that in l735, (the year of John Pidcock’s death) the copper mine was opened. (Looking at the death date of this child, it would seem likely that John’s sons, Robert, Emanuel, John and Benjamin, were born in the late l680’s or the early l690’s.)
Mr. DeLacey went on to tell how in December l776, the enlistments in the Continental Army were running out. Since many of these men were hungry and poorly clad, their morale was breaking. General Washington knew something had to be done. American liberty was really born here. Paine’s “American Crisis” had helped to stimulate and provoke thought among liberty loving Americans. One thousand two hundred and twenty six were encamped in this vicinity. Lieutenant James Monroe was a most able man. On the 24th of December the Delaware River was crossed with one hundred three horses and artillery. They camped at Bears Tavern. Seven hundred lives were lost. In l832 an appropriation was made for the preservation of the graves. Captain James Moore and others were buried here. In l930 it became a part of the State Park.
He concluded his address by stating, “There are but two stone towers in the United States, constructed entirely of stone, one of these being the tower on Bowman’s Hill. It is l25 feet in height and 271 feet from the road. From the top, one has a magnificent view of the surrounding country.”