Captain Daniel Bray: From Waterman to Militia

Daniel Bray was first a Scottish farmer from Baptisttown, NJ who became an experienced Waterman on the Delaware River, rising to Captain of his own Durham boat in 1769 at age 19. Later he joined the 2nd Regiment Hunterdon County NJ Militia, rising to captain in 1775. He earned his position in history when General George Washington charged him with obtaining the boats needed to cross the Delaware River on Christmas Night in 1776. Later he was promoted to general of the militia, and fought in the War of 1812.

Enjoy a first-person interpretation about Daniel Bray — from his boyhood as a farmer, to building Durham boats ,to becoming a waterman on the river, to marriage, to getting the boats for George Washington — then back to farming and finally the War of 1812. There is some audience participation, two costume changes, and a short play. The talk is supported by slides, a River Shanty, and a recited ballad.  

The narrator Daniel Nurmi McAuliffe has been a reenactor for 32 years with the 5th PA Regiment, crossing the Delaware numerous times. In 2016 he was asked to portray Captain Daniel Bray to replace his deceased mentor, Dick Bray, a direct descendant.

Come hear how this Scotsman learned how to “Git On Wit It!” in his life.