Help us restore the working Blacksmith Shop
“Hold to the last extremity." A chilling order given to the commander of Fort Miffin in the fall of 1777. Imagine what that command meant to the men stationed there. The courage and valor they displayed during that 5-week siege allowed General Washington time to establish winter quarters at Valley Forge and regroup his army. Before the Fort was finally evacuated on the night of November 15 the garrison destroyed what was left by lighting it ablaze, but left the flag flying. Fort Mifflin never surrendered. Without this courageous defense, who knows what might have happened.
As the only fort still in existence that predates the founding of the United States of America, Fort Mifflin is forever known as “The Valiant Defender of the Delaware.” The reconstruction of the Fort began in 1794 and over the next 160 years, it played many roles in the security of our nation: Garrisoned for the War of 1812, a federal prison during the Civil War, and a munitions depot during both World Wars. Finally decommissioned in 1954 and named a National Historical Landmark in 1970, Fort Mifflin holds a unique place in our nation’s history.
Today this National Historical Landmark is in dire need of repair. Although officially owned by the City of Philadelphia, the City only pays for the utilities of the Fort. All other operational expenses, maintenance and restoration are the responsibility of the Fort. The staff, Board of Directors, and volunteers valiantly try to keep Fort Mifflin operational to educate its many visitors. But the “Valiant Defender of the Delaware” needs help – needs your help!
The Board has established a priority for restoration projects and first on the list is the Blacksmith Shop. It is the first building reconstructed after the Siege and the oldest building at the Fort. How fitting that it leads the way as we prepare Fort Mifflin to serve as a site for celebrating 250 years of American history in 2026. An operational Blacksmith Shop will enhance visitors’ experiences and become a center for heritage craftmanship with live demonstrations. But the price for all of this is steep. The Fort needs to raise $70,000 to restore the roof, bellows, hearth, windows, and other masonry.
We encourage you to visit us, walk the grounds, and touch the soil where these valiant garrison held to the last extremity. We hope that you will consider a generous contribution to this historic effort. We owe it to those brave soldiers that risked all to save our young country. Your tax deductible contribution is greatly appreciated and will be used specifically for the restoration of the Blacksmith Shop.