During the brutal winter 1777–1778 encampment at Valley Forge, Washington’s army struggled to survive amid harsh weather and poor camp hygiene that bred disease and misery. With supplies dwindling and proper shelter scarce, desertion became a constant threat as hungry, frostbitten soldiers questioned whether they could continue. For Washington, the challenges extended beyond the elements, as he was tasked with holding together an army drawn from thirteen disparate states, composed of many men who had never had formal military training.
Join us on January 8, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET (4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT), when our curators will discuss the living conditions and daily experiences of Continental Army soldiers with Pulitzer Prize–winning author Rick Atkinson.
This event is for teachers, students, and their families — and everyone with an interest in history! Everyone who registers will be sent a Zoom meeting link and instructions in the confirmation email. PD certificates will be sent to all who attend the entirety of the program. Please add the Gilder Lehrman Institute to your email safe sender list.
Questions? Contact us at collectionprograms@gilderlehrman.org.