Philly or Bust day 3 – part I (Valley Forge)

Day three was an adventure-packed day, so much so that I’m splitting it into two posts.  We got up early and headed directly to Valley Forge.  We were greeted by George himself seated on his trusty mount, then we went up to the theater to see a very descriptive film about the site. 

We walked around the fort, followed several paths, then looked in several cabins and could see how sparse and cramped they were, but as we later drove through the entire battle ground, we saw by the descriptive markers that each state had their own section to set up camp and were separated from each other.  The film described the freezing temperatures, the lack of food and clothes and blankets, and also lack of instructional leadership.

We were impressed by the statue of Mad Anthony Wayne and his determination to keep going at all cost, and also impressed by the huge arch dedicated to those men who braved the hardships and made it through the winter of 1777.  “…naked and starving.”

We walked down to the old railroad station (can I have a ticket, please?) and then to the stone farmhouse that Washington used as a headquarters and found a skit in progress.  We were invited to join the audience and follow the efforts of our patriot friends to unearth the spy among them with the clues we were given. There were secret messages and invisible ink and a beautiful, beautiful sky. We had a photo op with the actors, including the finally-captured spy!

A short drive down the road was Washington’s Memorial Chapel – the stained-glass windows were breath-taking and the courtyard with archways and statues were inviting and inspiring.  It’s totally humbling to stand where these brave men and women stood, and fought, and often died.  Even though we tend to forget, or glaze over it quickly, what a high price was paid for our country’s freedom! 

It was a full morning, and well into the afternoon when we were on the road again to seek out lunch.  We were treated to a yummy lunch at Victory Brewery – fish and chips were a favorite.  So stay tuned to the rest of Thursday’s adventures – soon!