Battle of Trenton Commemoration: Dinwiddie & Virginians in the Revolution

Commemorate Virginians' participation in the Battle of Trenton in 1776 with a living history event on December 5-6, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., to include activities, demonstrations, presentations, and a chance to meet George Washington.

The Battle of Trenton was fought in December of 1776 after George Washington’s Continental Army crossed the ice-filled Delaware River in a surprise attack against the Hessian garrison at Trenton. It was a tactical victory for the Continental Army and a much needed morale boost after the previous defeats in New York. The victory revitalized the Americans and inspired recruitment and provided the momentum for the subsequent victories to include the Battle of Princeton in January of 1776.

Guests will have the chance to learn from living historians portraying soldiers who fought the Battle of Trenton where Virginians from Dinwiddie County and elsewhere fought for the patriot cause. The living historians will present different aspects of a soldier’s life including camp life, drill, weapons, and demonstrations. Impressions will include the Virginia militia of 1776 and the 6th Virginia Continental Regiment who will share the role of Virginia in the battle and greater fight for independence. 

Visitors will have an opportunity to meet and hear about the battle from General George Washington as portrayed by Brian Hilton. He will share the hardships and decision making before the daring river crossing and reflections on the battle and the War for Independence. 

Guests will additionally have the opportunity to join in programs titled "Tea and Baked Goods of the Revolutionary Era" and "A Pretty Little Frisk" which shares the art and importance of 18th century dance. Eric Johnson will also present "Ideas in Action" about Dinwiddie County in the American Revolution, with information gleaned from original documents in the Library of Virginia collection. 

The VA250 Mobile Museum will be located near the park entrance and offer, "A hands-on, interactive, and immersive “museum on wheels,” the VA250 Mobile Museum Experience titled “Out of Many, One” is housed in an expandable tractor trailer that is traveling throughout Virginia and beyond, in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. The mobile museum brings key stories of Virginia’s rich history to schools, museums, local events, fairs, and more, highlighting every region of the state. 

Since its launch in January 2025, the two mobile museum units have brought history to over 60,000 visitors" and is free to visitors during the event weekend. All event activities and programs are included with regular daily paid admission.