"The Battle of Brandywine: Loyalties Divided!"

Trivia Question❓

In 1777, which future first President of the United States is said to have narrowly escaped capture by British troops at the Battle of Brandywine in Chadds Ford, PA?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Americans fought each other at the Battle of Brandywine: Why did some choose to support the king?

LOYALTIES DIVIDED: THE BATTLE OF BRANDYWINE DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR

The Battle of Brandywine during the Revolutionary War highlighted the divided loyalties of the colonists, with many Americans fighting for the British as loyalists.

Despite being a defeat for Gen.

George Washington, the battle was seen as a victory by many loyalists.

The conflict demonstrated how the Revolutionary War was, in essence, a civil war, with families and communities split on which side to support.

Some soldiers, such as William Shoemaker and Nathan Pushee, switched sides opportunistically based on personal interests.

The reenactment of the battle serves as a reminder of the complexities and contradictions of this historical event.

The Brandywine Museum of Art in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania comes alive this holiday season, enchanting visitors from November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026.

Highlights include the beloved Brandywine Railroad, an O-gauge model train display weaving through expertly crafted miniature villages and scenes, engaging both children and adults.

The museum also debuts the Peters-Herdeg dollhouse and features exquisite dollhouse rooms designed by Ann Wyeth McCoy, reflecting intimate family holiday traditions.

Special exhibitions showcase holiday cards and original artworks from the famed Wyeth family and American illustrators.

The annual Holiday Critter Sale offers thousands of handcrafted ornaments, while events like sensory-friendly evenings, Breakfast with the Trains, read-aloud pajama nights, and a festive children's party invite families to create lasting memories.

Towering trees decorated with signature Critter ornaments fill the atrium, ensuring every visit sparkles with festive joy.

This newsletter sponsored by

Hank's Place "Where Hungry People Eat and Friendly People Meet"

Hank's Place has been a cherished cornerstone of the Chadds Ford community for generations, and it's back and better than ever.

This beloved diner serves up classic American and Greek comfort food that feels like coming home, from their famous Kennett Square mushroom omelets to hearty breakfast platters.

Its resilience and spirit make it more than a restaurant; it’s a true local landmark where neighbors gather to share a meal.

This spotlight is presented by Hank's Place, a Brandywine Valley tradition for decades.

Welcome them back to the neighborhood and see their delicious menu online to plan your next visit.

Styer's Peonies Gears Up for 7th Annual Festival of the Peony in Chadds Ford

Styer’s Peonies in Chadds Ford Township will soon host its 7th Annual Festival of the Peony, beginning May 17, 2025.

Guests can explore vibrant fields featuring more than 55,000 peony plants and around 250 unique varieties.

Set in the scenic Brandywine Valley hills, the festival offers a rare, immersive floral experience.

With roots dating back to 1890, Styer’s Peonies has a storied tradition, having helped pioneer the wholesale peony market and supplied major cities like Atlantic City and New York City by the 1920s.

For local gardening enthusiasts, Bruce Mowday emphasized harvesting peonies when their buds are closed yet soft to ensure beautiful indoor blooms.

The farm, open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. through May 26, invites visitors to enjoy the spectacle and take home fresh-cut peonies at wholesale prices.