Johnson Ferry House
New Jersey’s Washington’s Crossing Landmark — Circa 1740 Colonial Farmhouse and Tavern, Washington’s Crossing of the Delaware Christmas 1776, Garret Johnson’s Ferry and 490-Acre Plantation, Period Furnished Museum, Living History Demonstrations, Washington Crossing State Park Titusville Mercer County New Jersey
Johnson Ferry House is a state historic site within Washington Crossing State Park, Titusville, Mercer County, New Jersey. This circa-1740 gambrel-roof farmhouse and colonial tavern is historically connected to one of the most famous events in American history — George Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas night, 1776. Built by Garret Johnson, who operated a 490-acre plantation and ferry service across the Delaware, the house likely served as a staging point for Washington and his officers during the surprise attack on Trenton. The site features period-furnished rooms depicting life from 1740 to 1770, an 18th-century kitchen garden, living history demonstrations of colonial farm and tavern life, guided tours interpreting the crossing and colonial culture, and connections to the broader Washington Crossing State Park.
Christmas Night 1776
On the night of December 25-26, 1776, General Washington led his 2,400 Continental soldiers across the ice-choked Delaware River in a desperate surprise attack on the Hessian garrison at Trenton. Johnson Ferry House, located at the New Jersey landing point, almost certainly played a role in this operation — Washington and his officers likely used both the ferry service and the house itself during the crossing. By 1776, the ferry was being managed by James Slack.
Colonial Life Museum
Today, the house operates as a historic museum furnished with period pieces from 1740 to 1770. Visitors experience the daily life of 18th-century colonists — farmers, homemakers, tavern keepers, and ferry operators. The grounds include a reconstructed 18th-century kitchen garden, and the site regularly hosts living history demonstrations that bring the colonial era to life. The house also has historical connections to the Great Awakening religious movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Washington actually in this house?
It is highly probable that Washington and his officers utilized the ferry service and house during the Christmas 1776 crossing of the Delaware.
Is this part of Washington Crossing State Park?
Yes, the Johnson Ferry House is located within Washington Crossing State Park and is included in the park’s historical interpretation programs.
