On what night did George Washington’s army begin crossing the Delaware River before the Battle of Trenton?

George Washington’s army began crossing the Delaware River on the night of December 25–26, 1776.

Washington planned a surprise attack on Hessian forces stationed at Trenton, New Jersey. Continental Army troops gathered on the Pennsylvania side and began the difficult river crossing after dark on Christmas night. Ice, wind, sleet, and snow delayed the operation, but the main force completed the crossing and moved toward Trenton.

The attack took place on the morning of December 26. The Continental Army defeated the Hessian garrison, capturing prisoners, weapons, and supplies. The victory strengthened American morale after a series of defeats and helped persuade soldiers to remain in the army when enlistments were about to expire.

Emanuel Leutze’s famous 1851 painting shows Washington standing in a boat, but the image is an artistic interpretation rather than a literal record. The actual crossing used larger Durham boats and involved many soldiers, horses, and artillery pieces.