On this day 240 years ago...

The oft forgotten, but extremely important Battle of Brandywine took place in the Brandywine River Valley of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Just one year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, over 30,000 combatants (roughly 15,000 on each side with the English slightly outnumbering the colonists), took up arms in what proved to be a bloody and exhausting victory for the British. This battle was ultimately a fight of strategy and whit between General George Washington and Sir William Howe of England. General Washington had received word of a possible attack on Philadelphia, the birthplace of American freedom critical city for the emerging country, though he did not know from where or when it might take place. 

After learning Howe had moved men and artillery to the southern shores of New Jersey and Delaware, Washington realized the attack would come from the South, along Ye Great Road to Nottingham (now known as Route 1). Indeed, Howe's men began their journey in northern Maryland, eventually reaching Kennett Square and Chadds Ford where General Washington's men were waiting.The first shots of the 11 hour battle were fired at Welch's Tavern. Strengthening the British Army were hired mercenaries known as Hessians. These German foot soldiers provided necessary reinforcement which resulted in tragic losses for General Washington's army.

As a result of the defeat, the Continental Congress departed Philadelphia, fearing its overtaking by Howe's men.