Defending the Delaware

Defending the Delaware Program with Alex Arnold

Date: Monday, May 13

Time: 5:30 – 7:30 PM

Cost: Free to attend, but registration is required

Join the Independence Seaport Museum and Military History Alex Arnold to learn the stories that helped build America with the struggle to defend the Delaware. As early as 1775, Americans began preparing for the defense of Philadelphia, utilizing both new and old systems to protect the de facto capital of the Revolution. Using an interconnected system of hastily built fortifications, a small brown water fleet of row gallies, and sunken river obstacles dubbed chevaux de frise (one of which is on display in the museum’s new introductory gallery exhibition), a handful of dogged American soldiers and sailors held off the might of the British Navy and denied General Howe the satisfaction of an easy victory. In this presentation, Alex will examine the attempts to fortify the Delaware River and the men responsible for their management, defense, and security in the face of inevitable attack when Howe began his move South in the summer of 1777. Though the British would manage to capture the city of Philadelphia, the Navy struggled to get supplies to the army stranded there. The American defenders, occupying their forts and boats, fiercely defended the chevaux, delaying the British from moving up the river for five weeks until their defenses were finally laid open and they were forced to withdraw, leaving a hefty toll on British morale and resources.

Light refreshments will be served from 5:30 to 6:30 PM, with the program will begin promptly at 6:30 PM. After the presentation, a brief Q&A session will follow.

Reserve your spot here.

About Alex Arnold: Alex currently serves as the Military Programs Interpreter at Colonial Williamsburg, where he performs daily programs discussing the military in the 18th century and the role of the Public Magazine in starting the Revolution in Virginia. He previously worked at Mackinac State History Parks as Lead Historic Interpreter. Alex holds a Bachelor of Art in History from Millersville University.

A special thank you to Ken and Teresa Wood, who are sponsoring this program.