Washington Crossing Historic Park Master Plan to be Developed

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 19, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) has engaged Marianna Thomas Architects of Philadelphia to develop a master plan for Washington Crossing Historic Park. 

The park, established by the commonwealth in 1917, commemorates Gen. George Washington leading his troops across the icy river for a surprise attack on Hessian troops at Trenton, N.J., in December 1776. The victory reinvigorated American forces. Since its establishment the site has grown to encompass 500 acres and more than 40 buildings.

This master plan will examine the park's resources including buildings, grounds, and collections. They will be evaluated to meet PHMC's mission to preserve and interpret the military, cultural, and natural history of the site. 

The master plan will guide the long-term management of the park with a focus on stewardship, sustainability, education, and preservation of the historic site for the public. The goals include:

• The best use of resources to express PHMC's mission at the site;
• Organizing information and evaluating resources;
• Organizing real estate holdings in a sustainable way;
• Guiding future projects and;
• Developing the historic and natural resources in a manner that respects the integrity and tranquility of the site.

This project will be completed mid-summer 2013.  A wide variety of stakeholders will be consulted including state and local elected officials, neighboring residents and business owners, related historic sites and other state agencies. There will be opportunities for public comment throughout the planning process.

Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of 25 historic sites and museums on the Pennsylvania Trails of History® administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission in partnership with the Friends of Washington Crossing Park.

The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission is the official history agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Visit PHMC online at www.phmc.state.pa.us.

Media contact: Howard Pollman, 717-705-8639

SOURCE Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission