Following footsteps to the past at Valley Forge
There are few places where the statement “George Washington slept here” rings true … but Valley Forge is one of those places. For me, it is more than a historic site, it is a place that has deep family significance. My parents lived a few miles down the road in Devon, so it was a place we visited frequently.
Washington and his men arrived at the location of Valley Forge three days before Christmas in 1777, and in short order, built nearly 1,500 cabins over the 3,500 acres. Standing on those grounds now, I can only imagine the challenges and hardships they faced. And I can appreciate all they did in the fight for our freedoms.
When my children were young, they spent many hours playing in the cabins, romping through the fields and climbing on the cannons. My eldest daughter mastered the art of walking in the fields, which were wintry “home” to nearly 12,000 of Washington’s men and 400 of their family members.
Last week, on a cold and blustery winter’s day, I took three of my granddaughters there for the first time. Though they are too young to appreciate the historical significance of the place, I hope they will remember the first glimpse of our past, their first introduction to that historic spot.
The cabins were locked, and it was a bit too cold to stay long, but I know my eldest daughter, now 40, felt the nostalgia of the place where she had many great times. It certainly evoked thoughts of a much simpler and happier time.
I could not help but smile at the thought that her children and the child of her sister were walking in the footsteps of their mothers
before them, and in my footsteps as well. I walked in the footsteps of my parents before me. And all of us indeed walked where Washington walked.
On our way out, we drove past the National Memorial Arch, which commemorates the arrival of Washington so many years ago. It stands tall, a beautiful and fitting tribute to a man who took a bunch of ragamuffin men. and with the help of Baron von Steuben turned them into a force to be reckoned with, the Continental Army capable of beating the British.
If you have never been to Valley Forge, it is truly worth the trip. There is a self-guided audio tour available, or you can easily download the map of the park. It is conveniently
a very large loop that you can drive on your own and appreciate the monuments and signs narrating your way.
In addition to the wonderful history through which you will drive, you have the added plus of the beautiful landscapes, dotted with many deer who also call that location home.
I can personally attest to the wonderful locations that are perfect for picnics and outdoor get-togethers. There are miles and miles of biking and walking paths for you to enjoy. And in safer days, there is a wonderful visitors center that includes an educational movie and beautiful exhibits.
Walking in the footsteps of the past … if you listen closely, you can hear the history. You can feel the depth of the sacrifices made and the victories and triumphs.
We need to appreciate those sacrifices, and remember that it was on those sacrifices that this country was founded. Though things are in turmoil right now, it might help to remember that our country has been through difficult times in the past, times that I’m sure scared the population and caused unrest.
Somehow, they persevered and survived and peace was eventually restored. We hope and pray that peace will return to us if we stay calm and react with intelligence and patience.
Need a peaceful space? Head to Valley Forge. Let the peace there envelope you, close your eyes and remember that no matter what, you’re going to be just fine.