NPS photo On September 3 and 4 1781, the French army impressed the Philadelphia populace as they marched down Chestnut Street to encamp west of the city. The Continental Congress observed the parade in front of the Pennsylvania State House, today known as Independence Hall. 
NPS photo While the Continental Army suffered through its most legendary winter encampment of the war at Valley Forge, France officially declared an alliance with the United States. In May of 1778, the army celebrated the French Alliance on the fields of the Grand Parade. 
NPS photo Hopewell Furnace provided shot and shell to the Continental Army and Navy throughout the war, including 10-inch mortar shells used to help win the final major battle at Yorktown, Virginia. 
NPS photo The Schuylkill River Valley served as the staging grounds for the Philadelphia Campaign and the Valley Forge winter encampment in 1777 and 1778. This campaign will help secure the French alliance with the United States. More information can also be found with the Schuylkill River Valley National and State Heritage Area. 
Fort Mifflin saw heavy action in the fall of 1777 when the British army and navy laid siege on it to open up shipping lanes to British occupied Philadelphia. General Rochambeau visited the fort in 1781 as the French army passed through Philadelphia. |
Last updated: August 12, 2015