Valley Forge NHP Exhibit header graphic
he Continental Artillery was well served in having Henry Knox as its commander. He insisted on thorough and ongoing training for artillerists. Field artillery was stationed in the center of the Valley Forge camp. This allowed for quick deployment to a threatened area of the encampment. Although no attack came at Valley Forge, the well-trained artillery was in a constant state of readiness.

he process of firing a muzzle-loading cannon was a highly skilled art and science. The gun crew consisted of seven to fourteen men. Each performed a particular task using specialized equipment. Knowing each other's duties increased the crew's efficiency. The drill of loading and firing was practiced until the complicated process became second nature. Precision in execution and timing was essential for swift, accurate, and safe firing. Their hard work at Valley Forge paid off. At the Battle of Monmouth, the first confrontation after evacuating the encampment, a British officer commented that "No artillery could be better served than the Americans."
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Cannon Crew Cannon Balls Linstock
Artillery Worm Artillery Gauge
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Last Modified: Wednesday, March 16, 2005