Pennsylvania Society of Sons of the Revolution

06/17/2026

Enoch Anderson was commissioned a captain in the First Delaware Regiment in 1776 at the age of twenty-two. The young captain was stationed in Sussex County, Delaware to guard the coast from about 1500 British soldiers in five men-of-war. When he arrived, his veteran superior General John Dagworthy exclaimed, “Why this is but a beardless boy!”

Despite his youth, he fought in thirteen battles, including the Battle of Long Island where he was wounded in 1776. In 1819, Anderson wrote a series of letters to his nephew detailing his war service between 1776-1779.

At the Battle of Brandywine on September 11, 1777, he was in Major General John Sullivan’s division, which was beaten back by the British Brigade of Guards. When the battle began, Anderson compared the cannon ball fire and small arms sounds “like the rolling of a drum.” As he noticed the falling of wounded soldiers, he thought, “Well, I have no business here fighting in this place…[I can do no] good.” The British force was overwhelming, considering the Continental Army was “not more than one-half” of their enemy. Despite their being beaten back, not one despairing look or word was passed between the Continental men. According to Anderson, “We had our solacing words always ready for each other, ‘Come boys, we shall do better another time’ - sounded throughout our little army. Had any man suggested, merely hinted the idea of giving up - of relinquishing further opposition - he would have been knocked down, and if killed it would have been considered as no murder! Such was the spirit of the times, - such were the ideas of us “poor ragamuffins” - (as the British called us) - such were my views, your father’s, and thousands of others.”

Enoch Anderson retired from service in September 1778. You can learn more about his experience at Brandywine on August 1st at “Voices of Brandywine” with the Delaware Theater Company.

Image rights: Private of the Delaware Regiment, Continental Army, 1780 | 2010 | © Don Troiani All Rights Reserved 2025

06/12/2026

This flag, on display in the "Revolutionary Things: Objects from the Collection" exhibit at The State Museum of Pennsylvania, belonged to the First Pennsylvania Regiment of the Continental Line between 1776 and 1783. That regiment witnessed some of the most crucial points of the war for American Independence, including the night Washington crossed the Delaware River in 1776 and the surrender of the British at Yorktown in 1781. The flag, better known as the Thompson Rifle Battalion Flag, is a testament to a defining moment in American history, as few regimental standards survive the ravages of time. The motto painted on the flag “I refuse to be subjugated” is an appropriate choice. PHMC has owned the flag since 1906. , ,

06/03/2026

We are pleased to announce that the recipient of the 2026 Society of the Cincinnati Prize is Michael C. Harris for his book Fighting for Philadelphia: Forts Mercer and Mifflin, the Battle of Whitemarsh, and the Road to Valley Forge, October 5-December 19, 1777 (Savas Beatie, 2025)!

Fighting for Philadelphia examines the critical military events that followed the British occupation of Philadelphia in the fall of 1777. Focusing on the defense of the Delaware River, the fighting at Forts Mercer and Mifflin, and the Battle of Whitemarsh, Harris argues that the contest for Philadelphia did not end with the British capture of the city. Instead, he demonstrates that control of the Delaware River and the survival of the Continental Army remained central to the course of the war during the difficult months between Germantown and Valley Forge.

The Society of the Cincinnati Prize, established in 1989, recognizes the author of an outstanding book that advances understanding of the American Revolution and its legacy.

Learn more about Fighting for Philadelphia and the Society of the Cincinnati Prize: https://bit.ly/4vm4UcF

05/31/2026

Sgt. James Lamb of the 1st Pennsylvania Regiment carried this Old and New Testament Bible at Valley Forge during the winter of 1777-1778. Brandywine Battlefield Park now preserves this Bible.

A native of Lancaster and Cumberland counties, Lamb served with Capt. Grier's Company A, First Pennsylvania Regiment, commanded by General "Mad" Anthony Wayne. The regiment witnessed some of the most key campaigns of the Revolutionary War, including Benedict Arnold's siege of Quebec, Ticonderoga, Valley Forge, Monmouth and Brandywine.

The loss at Brandywine and Washington's inability to defend Philadelphia resulted in the retreat and encampment at Valley Forge during the harsh winter of 1777 and 1778. , ,

05/26/2026

Memorial Day Message from President C. Michael Whelan:

As we gather with family and friends on this Memorial Day, let us pause in solemn remembrance of the brave Americans who have given their lives in service to our nation. As members of a hereditary society honoring the legacy of those who served in the Revolutionary War, we are especially mindful that the freedoms we cherish were secured through sacrifices made for the very founding of our Republic.

Today, we honor not only our patriot ancestors, but all Americans across generations who have answered the call to defend liberty. May we remember their courage, their devotion, and their enduring example with gratitude and reverence. It is especially important in this 250th year of our independence that we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today.

My best wishes to you and your family for a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day holiday.

C. Michael Whelan
39th President
Pennsylvania Society of
Sons of The Revolution

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation. From the patriots of the American Revolution to those who have defended liberty across generations, we remember their courage, sacrifice, and devotion to the cause of freedom.

May we never take lightly the blessings secured by those who gave their “last full measure of devotion.” As descendants and stewards of our Revolutionary heritage, we remain committed to preserving the memory of those who served and sacrificed for the United States of America.

We wish all a meaningful and reflective Memorial Day. 🇺🇸🙏🇺🇸

05/24/2026