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Chester County Press

The tradition of Chadds Ford Days returns on a new weekend

09/03/2019 01:40PM ● By J. Chambless

Reenactors fire a cannon at a past Chadds Ford Days event.

A tradition that began during the Eisenhower administration will continue this month as Chadds Ford Days returns to the grounds of the Chadds Ford Historical Society.

Starting with the first parade back in 1958 led by “village historian” Chris Sanderson, this community celebration commemorates the Battle of the Brandywine on Sept. 11, 1777 and is now a fixture on the late-summer calendar, offering family activities and fun. It will be held this year on Sept. 14 and 15.

After a hiatus in 2018, the Historical Society is bringing back Chadds Ford Days with a focus on this region’s colonial heritage. Revolutionary War reenactors will portray Continental Army soldiers as they fought in local battles, reliving the events of that late summer day 242 years ago.

Visitors can stroll their encampment to witness a soldier’s life. Representatives from Brandywine Battlefield, the Battlefield Task Force and the historic Birmingham Meeting House (around which much of the battle raged) will be on hand for discussions.

There will be tours of the John Chads House (circa 1725) and springhouse, where you can watch beehive oven baking and candle making. The event also features Colonial demonstrators, historical lectures, artisan booths, children’s activities, hayrides and live bluegrass music. Food, wine and craft beers will be for sale.

Inside the Visitor Center is the popular exhibit, “Thrills, Hills and Spills: Lenape Park and Chadds Peak.”

Chadds Ford Days will be Sept. 14 and 15 from 10 am to 5 pm. Free parking is available in the field adjacent to the Historical Society Visitors Center. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 7 to 17; and free for children under 7 and CFHS members. The Chadds Ford Historical Society is located at 1736 North Creek Road in Chadds Ford.  For more information, call 610-388-7376 or visit www.chaddsfordhistory.org.

 

Gene Pisasale