Battle of Brandywine

240th Anniversary of the British Victory

This weekend was HOT.

Which makes me appreciate the men and women who participate in these events even more. They’re truly masters of their craft, and make legitimate sacrifices to live the same uncomfortable lives – if merely for a few days – so that we Colonial America history fans can get a glimpse into what life might have been like for those living centuries ago.

This year marked the 240th anniversary of the Battle of Brandywine, which occurred on September 11, 1777 between General George Washington and General Sir William Howe. It was a terrible loss for patriot forces – British estimates put American deaths at somewhere between 300-600, which is quite a wildly inaccurate estimation. Either way, even though the battle was a clear win for Howe, thanks to the organized retreat efforts of Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, Washington’s forces were salvaged.

This Battle of Brandywine reenactment and encampment was part of the annual Chadds Ford Days, and wonder event put on by the Chadds Ford Historical Society. It’s a great weekend-long event, and very much recommended for all history fans – especially kids!

Event Details