John B. Kelly of Drexel Hill likes to time travel back to Colonial America for Christmas.

A 1776 Christmas, to be specific, writes Maria Pownall for the Daily Times.

The 71-year-old has joined an annual tradition in the reenactment of  George Washington’s Revolutionary War crossing of the Delaware River. 

Kelly is a historical actor who has participated in 33 reenactments at Washington’s Crossing in Bucks County. The annual re-crossing has been a Christmas Day tradition since 1951.

The event attracts thousands of spectators.

Donning a blue and white coat, red vest, and white plants, Kelly is one of four Commander-in-Chief’s Life Guards. He carries the Washington flag, denoting 13 stars.

Kelly stands behind General Washington, holding the flag during the 20-minute row, faster than the original crossing of 10 hours.

Kelly combines his love of history with his rowing experience with Undine Barge, a rowing club out of Philadelphia.

“You get transported back in time,” he said. “The soldiers march solemnly to their boats with drum and fife music. You hear the words of George Washington. You get a sense of the sacrifices that people made for our country.”

Find out more about John B. Kelly’s historical re-enactment when he crossed the Delaware on Christmas Day in the Daily Times.