Construction Progress on New Museum Highlighted

River Edge, NJ — November 28, 2025 — The Bergen County Historical Society welcomed a record crowd to Historic New Bridge Landing on Sunday November 23rd for its annual Retreat to Victory event, commemorating General George Washington’s 1776 crossing of the Hackensack River before almost becoming entrapped by Cornwallis and the 5,000 British Troops invading Bergen County.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors experienced Fife and Drum performances, military drills, demonstrations of fortifying the Steuben House, historical interpretations, and open tours of the site’s historic buildings, including the Steuben House, Demarest House, Outkitchen, and Westervelt-Thomas Barn. Families also took part in hands-on colonial crafts and interacted with costumed interpreters throughout the day.

This year’s event also allowed attendees to view the construction site of the new 3,750-square-foot museum and visitor center, now underway beside the Campbell-Christie House. The project, which broke ground in October, marks a transformative step forward in expanding exhibitions, education programs, and visitor amenities at one of New Jersey’s most significant Revolutionary War landmarks.

BCHS President Beverly Hashimoto noted that growing national attention ahead of the country’s 250th in 2026 is also helping to bring more visitors to the site. Hashimoto noted that growing national interest ahead of America’s 250th anniversary is drawing more visitors to the site. “Being featured in Ken Burns’ new documentary “The American Revolution” that was released this month has brought valuable visibility,” she said. “That recognition clearly contributed to the strong turnout for this year’s Retreat to Victory.”

The Society emphasized that its capital campaign remains active, with fundraising now focused on completing the museum’s second and third phases, including the accessible wrap-around deck, orientation pavilion, and interior exhibition spaces. Supporters are encouraged to help bring the project to completion ahead of the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding.

For more information on the Bergen County Historical Society or to support the museum project, visit www.bergencountyhistory.org