Culture

Dude still has game: Washington’s 277th Birthday

George Washington, first president of the United States would be turning 277 years old soon. If he were still alive, whoa, what would the old dude say? Probably something like “Man, if I’d have known I was going to live this long, I’d have taken better care of myself. These wooden teeth are full of termites and my back hurts too much to chop down any more cherry trees!”

Regardless of your feelings toward the outcome of the recent presidential election, it should make us thankful for one thing. How about a peaceful transition of power, people! We don’t change our leaders at the barrel of a gun or by rioting in the streets – yet.

Valley Forge Historical Park invites everyone in the Philadelphia area to join them in celebrating the 277th Anniversary of Washington’s Birthday with two days of events.

Get some gunpowder in your face on Sunday, February 15, 2009, with a musket-firing program and cooking demonstration by the 2nd Pennsylvania Regiment at the Muhlenberg Brigade from 10 AM to 4 PM. Join one of the ranger led walks to the Brigade at 10:20 AM, 12:50 PM, and 2:20 PM. Free and open to the public.

On Monday, February 16, 2009, from 11 AM to 3 PM you can meet General Washington and his wife, Martha. In case you’re not aware, these are only actors portraying real life, not the actual George and Martha Washington. They’re too old! I thought we already covered this. In any event, be at the Welcome Center for period music.  Kids can make tri-corner hats and design birthday cards for the actors pretending to be the Washingtons’.

Taste a birthday cake baked from Martha’s own original recipe. Enlist in the Continental Army for a review by George Washington, after which will be marching and drills executed by the book. Which book? General Von Steuben’s training manual of course.

The Valley Forge Historical Park is located at 1400 North Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia, PA 19406. You can learn more about this American treasure by clicking here.

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