NEWTOWN, PA — The Washington Crossing Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), will dedicate a DAR America 250! Patriot Marker on Saturday at the Historic Presbyterian Church of Newtown, 76 N. Sycamore Street.
The dedication is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. Church tours will precede the ceremony at 10 a.m.
The marker will recognize the historic significance of the Old Presbyterian Church of Newtown and its role during the American Revolution.
Constructed in 1769, the church was commandeered by General George Washington in December 1776 because it was one of the largest buildings in the area. Following the Christmas crossing of the Delaware and the Battle of Trenton, the church was used as a hospital, jail, barracks, and prisoner-of-war camp for several hundred Hessian soldiers.
"The Historic Newtown Presbyterian Church stands as a living witness to America's struggle for independence," said Jennifer Viscusi, Regent of the Washington Crossing Chapter, NSDAR. "More than a place of worship, it became part of the story of liberty itself. The Washington Crossing Chapter, NSDAR, places this America 250! marker as a tribute and testament to the courage, sacrifice, and perseverance that helped shape our nation."
The Historic Presbyterian Church of Newtown. (Jeff Werner/Patch)
The church's Revolutionary history remains visible today. During an 1842 renovation, workers discovered a poem written in coal on the basement wall by a Hessian soldier. The adjoining graveyard is also the final resting place of approximately 30 Revolutionary-era Patriots, including known Revolutionary War veterans.
The public is invited to attend the dedication and explore the historic church during tours beginning at 10 a.m.
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