Valley Forge

On Memorial day, we met up with my sister's family and saw Valley Forge.

My children asked, What is Valley Forge?

We learned in 1777, during the American Revolution, the British strategy included a plan to capture Philadelphia (the capital at that time). To accomplish this, 17,000 British troops landed at the head of Chesapeake Bay. To oppose them, General George Washington marched his 12,000-man army out to battle.

In the Winter of 1777 George Washington sought out a place for his troops to make camp for the winter. He choose Valley Forge, PA which was located 25 miles from Philadelphia. This area was named for an iron forge that was built on Valley Creek. A forge is used to shape metal-think blacksmith. This area was chosen for it's landmarks that made it ideal for defense against the British and protection of the capital.

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Many of the soldiers were worn out or wounded from the battles. At times there was little food and most were ill clothed. The winter was cold, but mostly wet and damp which caused disease to fester.   Nearly 2,000 men perished. It was also a time for the soldiers to become more unified in their training and prepared for future battles when they marched out in June.

National Memorial Arch-done in dedication to the army

replica of the cabin, or hut, the soldiers built

The Washington Memorial Church. 

The chapel is on private property within the park. 

It has an active congregation.

We loved looking at the many stained glass windows which depict various scenes from history and honor George Washington's service to his country.

The girls spent some time acting out scenes from Rapunzel on this fun "tower" outside the chapel.