This moment outdoors is brought to you by L.L. Bean,

official partner of the National Park Foundation

for the Find Your Park Movement. C. December 19th, 17th, 1777. 12,000 weary revolutionary war soldiers and 400 women and children marched into what would be their winter encampment.

They began to build what was essentially the fourth largest city in the United States,

with 1500 log huts and two miles of fortifications.

Lasting six months from December until June,

the encampment was as diverse as any city

with people who were free and enslaved, wealthy and impoverished, speakers of several

languages and followers of multiple religions.

Concentrating the soldiers in one vast camp changed the face of the conflict, leading to the long fought independence the colonies so desired.

Today on America's National Parks, known as Valley Forge

over 10,000 years ago, enjoying the abundance of food and shelter offered by the River Valley.

Europeans began to settle the region in the late 17th century, and gradually they displaced

the indigenous people.

The land was cleared for agriculture

and 18 landowners established prosperous farms on the choice soils.

Along Valley Creek, an iron farms on the choice soils.

Along Valley Creek, an ironworks named Valley Forge was established,

and a small industrial village including charcoal houses,

a sawmill, grist mill, and company store grew up around it.

The slopes of the aptly named Mount's Joy and Misery were wooded and were frequently

cut over to supply wood to fuel the iron forge.

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