A family from New Jersey recently donated a Revolutionary War-era sword to the Washington Crossing Historic Park in Bucks County. Jeff Werner wrote about the rare find on the Newtown, PA Patch.

Lisa Thorndike, a resident of Pennington, New Jersey, was accompanied by her two sons when she brought the sword to the Bucks County park. The park is the location of where then-General George Washington famously crossed the Delaware River in 1776.

Named the “Thorndike sword”, the weapon has been in the Thorndike family since the Revolutionary War. Lisa and her children are descendants of men who fought in the pivotal battles.

“We’re honored that the Thorndike family has chosen us to take possession of their family’s heirloom for a future exhibit, “said John Godzieba, president of the Friends of Washington Crossing Park. “We also extend our gratitude to Lisa Thorndike for her continued support of our organization as a member and a donor.”

Godzieba, who also serves as a reenactor playing General Washington, spoke about the impressive sword. “Artifacts, such as this sword, are tangible connections to this country’s struggles during The Revolutionary War and conserving these valuable objects for future generations is an important responsibility.

Read more about this incredible piece of American history on the Newtown, PA Patch.