Revolutionary War Dioramas in Neshaminy Mall

Signing the Declaration of Independance diorama in Neshaminy Mall

April 15, 2018 in Landmarks

Last Updated on January 10, 2020 by Christopher G Mendla

There are a series of Dioramas in Neshaminy Mall depicting scenes from Colonial Times and the War for Independence. These are a unique piece of history and have been there since the mall opened in 1968

The dioramas were commissioned by George Strawbridge. They were part of the wall on the mall side of the Strawbridge and Clothier store. As of April 2018, that store is vacant.

When they were first installed, they were animated and there was a narration for each scene. As of 2018 they animations are no longer working.

These dioramas were created well in advance of the internet. For many people, this was a way to see history in ‘3d’ instead of just reading a book.

Moving the Liberty Bell diorama in Neshaminy Mall — Moving the Liberty Bell. The British forces were closing in on Philadelphia. The Colonial Leaders moved the Liberty Bell to a safe place to keep what was a valuable symbol from falling into the hands of British Troops.

William Penn and Native Americans diorama at Neshaminy Mall — William Penn and Native Americans This scene depicted one of the purchases of land from the Native Americans by William Penn. These purchases established Pennsylvania

Benjamin Franklin diorama in Neshaminy Mall — Benjamin Franklin- Franklin served as an Ambassador to France and helped secure critical French support for the Colonists

Washington at Valley Forge diorama in Neshaminy Mall — Washington at Valley Forge. The Colonial Troops endured an extremely harsh winter at Valley Forge.

Washington Crossing the Delaware diorama in Neshaminy Mall — Washington Crossing the Delaware. The tide of the war started to change when General Washington led his troops across the frozen Delaware River to attack the Hessian Troops in Trenton on Christmas Day.ton Crossing the Delaware

Washington’s Crossing of the Delaware is reenacted every year, weather permitting, at Washington Crossing Park. They have replica Durham Boats used in the crossing.

Battle of Germantown diorama in Neshaminy Mall — The Battle of Germantown. The area around Philadelphia was the scene of many large and small battles.

Sadly, the Neshaminy Mall Site makes no mention of this valuable piece of American History.

Tags: History