American Revolution Valley Forge

Winter at Valley Forge Primary Source Analysis

In this activity, you will be asked to analyze four primary source documents relating to the winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. Consider the documents carefully and then answer each question on the slide provided.

This is a copy of an engraving by H. B. Hall based off of a painting by Alonzo Chappel. It was gathered as part of the George Washington Bicentennial Commission. The Commission's purpose was to celebrate the birth and accomplishments of Washington, and to collect, preserve, and publish writings, artworks, and photographs pertinent to his life and times. The National Archives holds this photograph (from 1931-1932) of the print as part of the records of the Commission.

Open Ended

What do you notice about the picture?

Open Ended

How do you think the people in this picture are feeling?

This is a copy of an engraving based on a painting by W.H. Powell. It was gathered as part of the George Washington Bicentennial Commission. The Commission's purpose was to celebrate the birth and accomplishments of Washington, and to collect, preserve, and publish writings, artworks, and photographs pertinent to his life and times. The National Archives holds this photograph (from 1931-1932) of the print as part of the records of the Commission.

Open Ended

What do you think the people in this picture are discussing?

Open Ended

Why do you think the man on the right has his sword raised?

In August 1778 the paymaster general of the Continental Army informed Gen. George Washington that the military chest was entirely exhausted. Washington passed this letter on to the President of the Continental Congress, South Carolinian Henry Laurens, along with the information that one third of the army had not received pay for March and April 1778. 

Transcript of the Letter

White plains August 11th 1778

Sir

I take the liberty of transmitting to Congress the Inclosed Letter, which I just now received from the pay Master General. They will perceive by it, that the Military Chest is entirely exhausted, and, that a third of the Army remains unpaid for the Months of April and May. The importance & necessity of an immediate and large supply will at once appear—and I am persuaded it will be ordered and forwarded with all possible expedition.

Open Ended

What can you learn from this letter?

Open Ended

What must the situation be like for soldiers stationed at Valley Forge?

This is a copy of 1907 painting by Augustus G. Heaton entitled "Baron von Steuben at Valley Forge, 1777."

Open Ended

How does what you see in this picture differ from what you have learned from the previous documents?

Open Ended

What conclusions can you draw about the winter spent at Valley Forge?