Newtown, PA|Featured Event
WCDAR Tree Dedication at Historic Summerseat During Living History Festival
Event Details
MORRISVILLE, PA., May 30, 2026 - The Washington Crossing Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution (WCDAR), will dedicate a Kay Parris Magnolia tree during a ceremony taking place at 11:00 a.m. during the Living History Festival at Historic Summerseat in Morrisville. The ceremonial planting will serve as a living legacy that connects the community’s past to its future while honoring America’s 250th birthday.
Held on the grounds of Historic Summerseat, the Living History Festival will bring together visitors for a day of colonial era interpretation, educational activities, and community celebration. The magnolia tree dedication adds a meaningful commemorative moment to the festival by creating a lasting tribute on one of Bucks County’s most historically important properties.
Summerseat holds a distinguished place in Revolutionary history. The house served as General George Washington’s headquarters from December 8 to 14, 1776, during the critical days leading up to the crossing of the Delaware River and the first Battle of Trenton. It was also later owned by two signers of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, Robert Morris and George Clymer, making it a rare site directly connected to the nation’s founding. While staying at Summerseat, Washington is said to have issued the directive that all boats and watercraft be secured or destroyed in preparation for the daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware.
The tree selected by the chapter is the Kay Parris Magnolia, an evergreen known for its glossy leaves and fragrant creamy-white blossoms that appear throughout the summer. Magnolia flowers have long symbolized endurance, perseverance and splendid beauty, qualities that echo the ideals the nation’s founders envisioned for the country and that continue to inspire Americans today.
Through this dedication, the WCDAR, and Historic Summerseat invite the public to reflect on the enduring meaning of America’s founding and to participate in a community celebration rooted in remembrance, education, and patriotism. Summerseat is located at 130 Legion Ave., Morrisville, PA 19067