Valley Forge 1777-1778
Valley Forge:
The Winter of 1777–1778
During the winter of 1777–1778, General George Washington’s Continental Army camped at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, enduring one of the most challenging periods of the American Revolution. After suffering defeats in Philadelphia and elsewhere, the army retreated to Valley Forge to regroup, rebuild, and prepare for the next campaign. Washington chose this area as a defensible location to train his 12,000 troops.
At first, soldiers lived in makeshift tents exposed to freezing temperatures, snow, and rain. As the winter deepened, they constructed over 1,000 log cabins, each housing about a dozen men. The cabins offered little comfort—smoky fires, dirt floors, and scarce food made survival difficult. Supplies were short, clothing was tattered, and disease spread rapidly. Nearly 2,000 soldiers died from illness and malnutrition. Despite the hardships, morale and determination ultimately grew stronger rather than weaker.
Despite the suffering, the winter became a turning point. This came with the arrival of Baron Friedrich von Steuben, a Prussian military officer who trained the troops in modern drills, discipline, and battlefield tactics. His structured methods transformed the disorganized army into a unified, effective fighting force.
Washington’s leadership also proved crucial. His presence among the men—sharing their struggles and advocating for better supplies—earned him deep respect and loyalty. He even was helped by the Oneida Tribe with corn for the camp. The soldiers emerged from Valley Forge in the spring of 1778 not defeated, but renewed and ready for battle.
Valley Forge stands today as a symbol of perseverance, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of the Revolution. It was not a battlefield victory, but a triumph of will that helped secure America’s ultimate independence.
Presented by:
The Saguaro Chapter of the DAR
Mesa, AZ
A group of dedicated volunteers from the Saguaro Chapter, and some family members, came together to create a detailed Valley Forge diorama. The result is the combination of many talents and creative ideas. Some painted the Revolutionary War soldiers, others crafted tents from diaper wipes dipped in glue, built cabins using a 3D printer, and constructed the display case and base by hand. Together they recreated George Washington’s tent, added figures of Oneida allies bringing corn, and designed a sign to complete the scene. This collaborative effort reflects the same spirit of unity and shared purpose that defined the diverse people who endured that winter at Valley Forge.
The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a nonprofit, nonpolitical women’s organization founded in 1890 to honor the memory of those who fought for American independence. Membership is open to women who can trace their lineage to a patriot of the American Revolution. The DAR is dedicated to promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism through volunteer service, scholarships, and community programs. Members maintain historic sites, support veterans, and encourage civic responsibility. With chapters across the United States and abroad, the DAR continues to celebrate America’s heritage while fostering a sense of national pride and community engagement.
