I cannot think of a better way to celebrate the 4th of July then honoring our nation and those who have served to make it and keep it the great nation it is than the changing of the flag and reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Middlebrook Encampment.

It commemorates the encampment of the fledgling American Army in the area from May 28 to July 2, 1777 and again from December 1778 to June 1779. The land was donated to the Washington Camp Ground Assn. on the condition that the Declaration of Independence be read every 4th of July, and a meeting be held around Washingtons birthday, February 22.

A truly historic and little known spot. While not exotic, or even well maintained, a place to reflect on the events that have made this country. The Washington Camp Ground is noted for several important events, the most important of which is the first raising of the first 13 star American flag (not to be confused with the Betsy Ross flag). By a special act of Congress the flag flies here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year.In addition to the flag raising, the significance of the site is that the fortifications here caused the British, under Howe, to quit a land assault on Philadelphia. The delay subsequently caused the defeat of Burgoyne at Saratoga.Another little recognized event was the first known procession of automobiles was formed to head to the Washington Camp Ground for the commemoration of the first flag raising.A couple of notes for would be visitors:The site is not correctly identified on Google maps. It is approximately a half mile east of where the pin locates the Camp Ground.There is a lecture area, but the seats are severely warped.Be aware that there is a good amount of poison ivy should you decide to get into the weeds while you explore.I would urge you to visit this historic place and reflect on the many heroic people and events that were the foundation of the United States.

Cool... blast to the past