|
 |
|
Philadelphia Revolution
A fascinating trip back in time to explore 18th century historic sites in and just outside Philadelphia
|
Valley Forge Memorial Arch
Photo by R. Kennedy for GPTMC
|
Location:
Philadelphia’s suburbs
Transportation:
Driving
Duration:
One day and evening
After the call to independence was sounded in Philadelphia, it was played out in the surrounding countryside by a young army whose spirit was forged through hardship and determination.
Now, over two centuries later, you can follow the same winding roads along which Washington's troops marched and tour the old stone homes and farmsteads that played a part in the struggle.
Beginning with the Valley Forge National Historic Park, this Revolutionary War tour follows Washington's army through the county, tracing the troops’ progress through the fall and winter of 1777-78 and combining historical details with current information on attractions.
Day and Night Revolution
|
The Germantown Historical Society
Photo courtesy of The Germantown Historical Society Museum and Library
|
Only a half-hour’s drive outside of Philadelphia, Valley Forge is an essential part of any quest for history in this five-county region. In fact, Valley Forge National Historic Park, site of the famed 1777-78 winter encampment of General George Washington and his Continental Army, is a "must see" for history lovers and nature lovers alike; the landscape is truly both historic and beautiful!
The best advice for this tour is to get started early because there’s so much to see. Secondly, you should gain an initial perspective on the sprawling, 3,600-acre park by beginning at the Visitors Center, located at the junction of Route 23 and North Gulph Road. The center features exhibits, artifacts, and a 15 minute film. Also, be sure to ask for a map of the park while you’re there.
If you’re up for some serious exercise as well as sightseeing, you can walk or bicycle through the park’s rolling hills. Otherwise, a self-guided or scheduled driving tour takes you on a scenic journey into the Revolutionary War period. The attractions you’ll see include: Washington’s Headquarters, Washington’s Memorial Chapel, Artillery Park, the National Memorial Arch, a statue of General “Mad” Anthony Wayne, the Monument to Patriots of African Descent, the Muhlenberg Huts (reconstructions of original soldiers’ huts), the Grand Parade Ground, where the Revolutionary troops marched in 1778 to mark the American-French alliance, and the Valley Forge Historical Society Museum, where you’ll find a collection of 4,000 artifacts and memorabilia.
A perfect complement to your tour of Valley Forge National Historic Park is a visit to the Peter Wentz Farmstead. This is the restored colonial farmhouse owned by Peter and Rosanna Wentz and used as a headquarters by Washington before and after the Battle of Germantown in 1777. Be sure to take time to wander around the charming 18th century German kitchen garden, see the farm animals, and browse in the gift shop on the premises.
You’ve undoubtedly worked up an appetite, but your historical tour needn’t be interrupted for lunch. You’ll find a great selection of excellent eateries in historic Skippack Village, which served as one of General Washington’s encampments prior to the Battle of Germantown and his stay at Valley Forge in the 1700s. Today, this quaint village offers not only wonderful fine dining, but also the best of creativity and craftsmanship displayed throughout its renovated 18th and 19th century buildings. Work off some of your lunch calories by exploring Skippack’s art galleries and unique gift, craft, and specialty shops.
Your next stop is Hope Lodge, the finest surviving example of early 18th century Georgian architecture built by Samuel Morris, a wealthy Quaker entrepreneur, between 1743 and 1748. Hope Lodge also became Surgeon General John Cochran’s headquarters during the Revolution, as well as the site of the Whitemarsh Encampment.
Cross the city line into Philadelphia and its historic Germantown section, where you will find Cliveden of the National Trust. Cliveden provided the setting for the Battle of Germantown in October of 1777 and is one of America’s finest colonial homes. Descendants of original owner Benjamin Chew lived here until 1972. Walk the grounds where American soldiers fought and died and take a tour of the historic home, which includes its original furnishings and decorations.
If you’d like to check out some other historical sites in Germantown, then head to the gothic stone mansion housing the Germantown Historical Society, where you will find a Vistors Center and lots of information on the area.
A great place to wind down your tour and have dinner is nearby Chestnut Hill, another of Philadelphia’s historic districts. You’ll find a wonderful array of restaurants, art galleries, antique stores, and many specialty shops lining this cobblestone portion of Germantown Avenue. In keeping with your 18th century theme, you might want to enjoy your evening meal in the lovely 18th century dining room of Chestnut Hill’s historic Cresheim Cottage Café.
Another option, not far away in Lafayette Hill, is The General Lafayette Inn & Brewery, an authentic tavern that dates back to the 1700s and claims the site upon which General Lafayette and his men successfully fought the Battle of Barren Hill. This cozy inn features both a bar area and more formal dining room, along with wood burning fireplaces, rustic wooden beams, and excellent food. In case you decide to extend your stay, it’s nice to know that the inn’s owner also runs a bed & breakfast, “Lafayette’s Retreat,” located a few steps from the restaurant.
|