into Pennsylvania and northwest toward King of Prussia gets us close to Valley Forge, the winter encampment location for General George Washington and 12,000 troops from December 19th, 1777 to June 19th, 1778. Philadelphia had fallen to the British, and the Continental Army needed a place to rest, train and regroup for the final campaigns of the war. Valley Forge was only 20 miles from Philadelphia, and so was close enough to keep an eye on the British, but far enough away to avoid patrols. The British were busy in town living the good life in the homes of locals and only went on sporadic and minimal military excursions.
The Continental Army spent its time not only training, building defense redoubts, growing and preparing food, but also on moral boosting activities such as plays and musical performances. The fact that Mrs. Washington was in residence with her husband gave the troops hope and optimism. Food was scarce, clothes were mostly nonexistent until a British supply ship was captured and it's supplies sent to the Army, and food was minimal, but for all that, the troops kept a strong resolve.
In June of 1778, the British evacuated Philadelphia, leaving behind filth and debris. American cavalry galloped into the city just 15 minutes after the last British soldier had left. A damaged Philadelphia returns to American control. The end of British occupation had begun.
There was indeed a forge at Valley Forge. Destroyed by departing British troops just months prior to Washington's encampment, it nevertheless provided a safe haven for the American Army. Generally on a wide plain, elevated above the surrounding woods, the encampment location was easily defensible, with breastworks and cannon positioned so as to look out over the hills an attacking force would need to climb.
At the time of the encampment, this was the fourth largest city in the nation. Everything necessary to function was available: blacksmiths, leather workers, farmers and tradespeople. A complete store was established in the center of the encampment to provide "necessaries". Recreated cabins dot the area today, giving a rough idea of the size of the encampment. Consider: the surrounding woods provided an almost unlimited source of wood for fires and building. Each cabin was 12 by 16 feet and made of stacked lumber chinked with mud and clay, and held either 12 enlisted men, 6 junior officers, 3 field officers or one general.
And they are not very tall!
In 1996 and 1997, the Freemasons of Pennsylvania honored George Washington, who served as Master of his Lodge during his Presidency, by restoring and rebuilding the National Memorial Arch, which honors the men and women of the Continental Army.
Approaching the house where George Washington kept his headquarters, one can glimpse the Schuylkill River. The railroad tracks have been abandoned. They were built when railroads were the preferred method of transportation and brought thousands of visitors to Valley Forge.
The Headquarters House is very, very small, considered that upwards of 30 men and officers lived there along with General and Mrs. Washington.
General Washingtons office:
The Generals bedroom:
Office for junior officers:
All of the wood stairs and handrail is original. Paint has been removed to show the beauty of the wood.
General Washington, Benedict Arnold, and General Lafayette climbed these stairs!
The country lanes leading away from Valley Forge National Historical Monument are beautiful. The day was warm and clear, about 75 degrees, with a light breeze. Somehow I had pictured this area differently, but it is so peaceful and quiet away from the cities.
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