Historian and a Movie at Philipse Manor Hall: The Crossing

Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site is pleased to present another edition of our “Historian and Movie” film series. This month we will discuss The Crossing (2000) which tells the story of Washington’s infamous crossing of the Delaware River during the Revolutionary War. This free, in-person event will take place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site (29 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, NY).

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 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, TV-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. 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.

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