Continental Army Encampment Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Continental Army Encampment Site
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Continental Army Encampment Site, March 2010
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 Location in Delaware
Location in the United States
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| Location | Lovering Ave. near Broom St., Wilmington, Delaware |
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| Area | 8 acres (3.2 ha) |
| Built | 1777 |
| NRHP reference No. | 73000547 |
| Added to NRHP | December 18, 1973 |
The Continental Army Encampment Site is a special place from history. It is found in Wilmington, Delaware, in New Castle County, Delaware. Soldiers from the Continental Army (America's first army) set up camp here. It is on the east side of Brandywine Creek. Today, this area is part of Brandywine Park.
You can still see an old 'mill race' here. A mill race is a channel that carried water to power mills. This shows how important flour mills were along the Brandywine River back then. The Continental Army stayed here for a few days in August 1777. This was just before a big fight called the Battle of Brandywine.
Later that year, in December 1777, about 1,500 soldiers came back. These troops were from Delaware and Maryland. Their leader was General William Smallwood. They were there to stop the British army from taking over Wilmington. They also protected the important flour mills. This special place was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. This list helps protect important historical sites in the United States.
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What is the Continental Army Encampment Site?
The Continental Army Encampment Site is a historic area. It is located in Wilmington, Delaware. This site was a temporary home for American soldiers. They camped here during the American Revolutionary War. The war was fought for America's independence.
A Temporary Home for Soldiers
In August 1777, the Continental Army used this spot. They stayed here for a few days. This was right before the Battle of Brandywine. This battle was a major event. It took place nearby. The soldiers needed a place to rest. They also needed to prepare for the fight.
Life at the Camp
Soldiers lived in tents or simple shelters. They cooked over open fires. They trained and got ready for battle. The camp was near the Brandywine Creek. This provided water for the troops. It was a busy place, even for a short time.
Protecting Wilmington and Its Mills
The site became important again later in 1777. On December 21, 1777, troops returned. About 1,500 soldiers came back to the camp. These troops were from Delaware and Maryland. General William Smallwood led them.
Why They Returned
The soldiers had a key mission. They needed to protect Wilmington. The British army might try to take the city. Wilmington was important. It had many flour mills along the Brandywine Creek. These mills made food for the American army. Protecting them was very important.
A Place of History
The Continental Army Encampment Site is recognized for its history. It reminds us of the brave soldiers. They fought for America's freedom. The site also shows the importance of the Brandywine Creek. It was vital for both water and industry.
National Recognition
Because of its importance, the site is protected. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This happened on December 18, 1973. Being on this list helps preserve the site. It ensures future generations can learn from it.
