Valley Forge

Valley Forge National Historical Park – the site of the 1777-1778 winter encampment of America’s Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

It's located northwest of Philadelphia (where the British troops spent a much more comfortable winter). I visited there on September 10 and was particularly fascinated by the recreations of the iconic log-cabin barracks that the troops lived in.

The encampment has been described as “the army’s epic struggle to survive against hunger, disease, and the unrelenting forces of a harsh winter.”

The insides of one hut. The army lost 2,000 soldiers to disease over that winter – a hefty portion of its total strength.

But the shared hardships of officers and men, plus some serious military training, was considered the key to the Continental Army’s subsequent success and marked a turning point in the Revolutionary War.

This will give you an idea of how the barracks were constructed.

This structure (temporarily closed for repairs) was George Washington's headquarters during the encampment. And this (below) is what the surrounding area looks like.

Here is the National Memorial Arch, dedicated to George Washington and the army he led.

Some inscriptions and artwork on the arch.

I just happened upon this marrying couple near the arch, as well as a large Sikh delegation.

I was attracted to the Sikh garb.

Here’s the whole group.

There’s a cemetery nearby.

I always prefer cemetery photos in black & white.

General Anthony Wayne (known as “Mad Anthony”) and his steed.

More of Mad Anthony.

Some big guns.

Guns also look better in black & white.

I’m convinced this place is a special part of our heritage.