Brandywine Battlefield
PO Box 202
1491 Baltimore Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
(610) 459-3342
http://brandywinebattlefield.org/

In 1777 the British landed at Head of Elk (now Elkton), Maryland. Led by General Howe, their objective was to take Philadelphia. By placing troop detachments at the northern and southernmost river crossings -- Wistar's Ford and Pyle's Ford -- General George Washington hoped to force a battle at Chadds Ford, where he and his men were prepared.

Unfortunately, General Howe foresaw Washington's intentions and devised a plan to thwart him. Sending a portion of his own troops toward Chadds Ford as a diversion, Howe led the bulk of his forces to a northern crossing unknown to Washington.

Taken by surprise, Washington ordered his men to take a stand around Birmingham Friends' Meeting House. Howe's troops were there already, though, and the battle ensued. Washington retreated with his men to Chester and, two weeks later, General Howe took the City of Philadelphia.

The Battlefield at Brandywine is preserved as an historical park complete with a Museum in the Visitor Center. Here audiences enjoy an audio-visual presentation that graphically tells the story of the battle and its relation to the Philadelphia Campaign of 1777. In addition, changing exhibits cover a variety of topics pertaining to the American Revolution, offering something new for the frequent visitor. Special events, demonstrations, lectures, and other activities take place here throughout the year. Call for a calendar.

Washington's Headquarters lies to the west of the battlefield. This was the farmhouse of Benjamin Ring, a Quaker farmer and miller. Though the original structure suffered extensive fire damage in the 1930's, visitors can tour a reconstruction. The east end headquarters of the Marquis de LaFayette remains much as it appeared in 1777.

School Groups can enjoy a number of interactive educational programs. All programs include an audio-visual presentation, house tour (grade 2 and up), hands-on lesson and an activity. In Setting Up Camp (Pre-K - 2), children learn about artifacts as they set up an actual camp. In Colonial Toys (Pre-K - 2), children demonstrate a Jacob's Ladder, a Buzzer, and a Limber Jack. A Quaker Girl Dresses Up (3 - 5) has a student volunteer dress up in an 18th century Quaker outfit. Which for What (3 - 5) has students match objects on display with their uses. Springs and Springhouses (junior high) investigates an ingenious method of preserving perishable foods in the 18th century. Magnetic Map (high school) uses a unique medium to present the battle, stressing causes, strategies and consequences to both sides.

Several other great programs are available for each age group.