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Valley Forge National Historical Park
Extending east from the village of Valley Forge along SR 23, the 3,500-acre Valley Forge National Historical Park was the site of the 6-month winter/spring encampment by the Continental Army. From Dec. 19, 1777, to June 19, 1778, Gen. George Washington and 12,000 soldiers survived against terrible odds and kept the British Army contained in Philadelphia.
During that harsh winter some 2,000 troops died from disease brought on by supply shortages, exposure and poor sanitation. Still, during those 6 months the army was reorganized, Baron von Steuben developed a uniform system of drill and the Continental Army left Valley Forge better trained and more efficient.
A self-guiding tour visits the reconstructed huts of Muhlenberg's Brigade, Washington's Headquarters, the Memorial Arch and the original entrenchment lines and fortifications. Audiotape driving tours are available; seasonal bus tours begin at the welcome center at the junction of SR 23 and N. Gulph Road. The center has exhibits and a short film. Admission tickets for Washington's Headquarters must be purchased at that location.
Allow 2 hours minimum. Park daily dawn-dusk. Welcome center daily 9-5. Closed Jan. 1, Thanksgiving and Dec. 25. Bus tours are available mid-June through Sept. 30. Park free. Fee charged for Washington's Headquarters. Phone (610) 783-1077.
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