Historic Valley Forge

Winter Encampment Valley Forge Tragedy Forge Accommodations Inspirational Leadership National Historical Park

Valley Forge is one of the most important historical sites of the Revolutionary War. The story of Valley Forge began in the late summer of 1777, when British forces landed at the upper end of the Chesapeake Bay with the objective of overtaking Philadelphia, America’s capital at the time. George Washington maneuvered the Continental Army into position to defend the city, but the skillful tactics of the British army, combined with errors made by Washington's army, led to a British victory at the Brandywine, their successful occupation of Philadelphia, and the subsequent flight of the Continental Congress.

Winter Encampment. With winter setting in, Washington sought a good place to camp with his men, knowing that he would have to wait until the worst weather was over to begin campaigning again. He selected Valley Forge because the site was easy to defend and close enough to keep the British from raiding the surrounding area, while far enough away to diminish the threat of surprise attacks from British forces.  [Top]

Valley Forge Tragedy. Washington’s undernourished and ill-equipped army made camp at Valley Forge on December 19, 1777. Within days of their arrival, the Schuylkill River was covered with ice and there was six inches of snow on the ground. More than 1,000 huts provided shelter, but the army suffered from constant shortages of food and clothing.

Soldiers received irregular supplies of meat and bread, and they often had to resort to eating "firecake," a bland mixture of flour and water. The army’s long days of marching had left many without shoes and most of the soldiers wore tattered clothing. Washington worried that his army would starve or desert in order to find food, clothing and shoes. Lack of food and clothing and living in damp, crowded quarters led to rampant disease. Typhus, typhoid, dysentery, and pneumonia killed as many as 2,000 men. Although Washington repeatedly petitioned Congress for relief, they could do nothing.   [Top]

Washington’s Inspirational Leadership. With stories of the bravery and sacrifice of Washington’s courageous soldiers circulating through the country, supplies and equipment finally began to arrive at the camp. And with the arrival of spring, fresh troops and word of the French alliance helped improve morale and prepare the weary army for battle once again. On June 19, 1778, Washington’s army marched away from Valley Forge in pursuit of the British who were moving toward New York. The war lasted five more years, but the spirit of Valley Forge and the bravery of Washington and his men are a part of our nation’s history that we won’t soon forget.  [Top]

Visit Valley Forge National Historical Park. The site of Washington’s encampment became a national park in 1976. The park features historical and recreated buildings and structures, memorials, and a newly renovated visitor center. Visitors can tour Washington’s headquarters, view several exhibits, become a junior ranger, and meet historical figures as they tour the park. Park open daily 6am-10pm: Welcome Center open 9am-5pm daily except major holidays. Visit www.nps.gov/vafo for more information.  [Top]