When you think of the American Revolution, images of Germantown, Valley Forge, Lexington and Concord. Images of Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Virginia come to mind. Most people don’t even know that an important skirmish in the Revolutionary War happened right here in Newark, Delaware. The Battle of Cooch’s Bridge is a minor one in terms of casualties and soldiers, but it was an important fight during the Philadelphia Campaign that eventually led to the turning points of the war. Read about this historic battlefield below.
Cooch’s Bridge is a battlefield site from the American Revolutionary War - and it’s located right in Newark!
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This map from 1777 shows the British movements of their Philadelphia campaign. You can see the battlefield marked near Iron Hill.
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Cooch’s Bridge was a battle in the Philadelphia area, prior to the British winning at Brandywine and Germantown. The campaign in the area was a defeat for American forces, but helped them gain the experience they needed to turn the tide of the war.
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The Continental Army got word of the British advancing towards the Brandywine Valley, and sent troops out to delay them. At Cooch’s Bridge, that was accomplished, but the American forces did have to withdraw after a hard fought battle.
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Today, the Cooch’s Bridge battlefield is a preserved historic site in Newark. You’ll find placards and memorials explaining the battle and Revolutionary War strategy of the time.
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One thing that many people don’t know about this short, overlooked battle, is that it was reportedly the first time the American Flag was flown! The Betsy Ross flag had just gained popularity and support from the army.
Wikimedia Commons
In December of 2018, the State of Delaware announced plans to purchase the historic Cooch home, outbuildings and 10 acres of surrounding property, so that an interpretive site may remain for generations to come.
Facebook / Cooch’s Bridge
You can find directions to the battlefield right here, and you’ll be impressed with the display when you do visit!
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Wikimedia Commons
Facebook / Cooch’s Bridge
If you can’t get enough of Delaware’s history, you might enjoy reading about 9 Insane Things That Happened In Delaware You Won’t Find in History Books. There’s nothing like a good history lesson to inspire a little state pride!
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