Washington’s Winter at Valley Forge Brought to Life in Ashland Living History Program
ASHLAND, OHIO — History came alive in Ashland as renowned historical reenactor Kenneth Hammontree of Living History Productions portrayed General George Washington during a special living-history presentation at New Life Community Church, 1489 State Route 511.
Joining Hammontree was Emily Potts, who portrayed Martha Parke Custis (“Patsy”), offering those in attendance a glimpse into the personal and historic moments surrounding America’s fight for independence.
Speaking in character as the commander of the Continental Army, Hammontree walked the audience through one of the most pivotal and difficult chapters of the American Revolution — the winter of 1777–1778 at Valley Forge.
A Nation’s Struggle in the Winter of 1777
Hammontree described the dire conditions Washington and his army faced as winter approached. By December 8, 1777, following the skirmishes at Whitemarsh, Washington’s army prepared to move into winter quarters at Valley Forge.
The conditions awaiting them were brutal.
Supply lines were strained by the harsh weather, and soldiers were often poorly clothed, poorly nourished, and weakened by months of campaigning. Many troops marched into the encampment lacking even the most basic necessities.
According to the portrayal, Washington faced more than just the British Army during that winter.
Even before his shoeless and shirtless soldiers arrived at Valley Forge, the general himself was under heavy criticism from members of Congress and some within the upper ranks of his own army. Critics questioned his leadership and some even pushed to replace him with what they believed would be a more experienced and reliable commander.
The True Turning Point of the Revolution
Hammontree emphasized that many of the defining moments of the American Revolution did not happen on the battlefield.
Instead, they happened at Valley Forge, where Washington fought what he described as a secondary war — one against the slander of his reputation and the doubts surrounding his leadership.
Despite the adversity, the Continental Army endured.
When Washington finally departed Valley Forge on June 9, 1778, pursuing the British who had abandoned Philadelphia, the cost had been enormous. Nearly 2,000 soldiers had died from disease or deserted during the winter encampment.
Yet the army that emerged from Valley Forge was stronger, more disciplined, and more unified.
As Hammontree recounted, when Washington rode out of the encampment, the valley echoed with the voices of soldiers shouting:
“Long live General Washington — long live freedom forever.”
The powerful moment concluded the presentation as Hammontree, still in character, introduced himself to the audience with the words:
“I give you General George Washington.”
Living History in Ashland
Hammontree, well known throughout the region for his educational Living History Productions, frequently brings historical figures to life through immersive presentations at schools, churches, and community events.
The program at New Life Community Church offered attendees not only a lesson in Revolutionary War history but also a vivid reminder of the perseverance and sacrifice that helped shape the nation.
Highlights from the 2026 schedule include:
March 19 – Pretty Boy Floyd and the Great Depression, Old Mount Vernon Opera House
April 11 – Eisenhower and wartime industrial production, Lisbon
April 14 – General George Patton and the Battle of the Ardennes, Columbiana Station
April 15 – Washington Crossing the Delaware, North Fairfield Historical Society
April 21 – George Washington and Patriots in Petticoats, Willard Historical Society
Several major programs are also scheduled later in the year, including:
May 1–2 – Washington at Valley Forge during the Ohio Civil War Show in Mansfield
July 4 – George Washington appearing in the Ashland County Downtown Parade
July 14–23 – Multiple presentations on Eisenhower and D-Day at the MAPS Historical Air Force Museum near Akron–Canton Airport
September 1–2 – Revolutionary Days at Fort Laurens featuring Washington at Valley Forge
November 11 – Veterans Day presentation on Eisenhower and D-Day in Millersburg
November 19 – Paul Revere’s Ride program at the Columbiana Public Library
Many programs will also feature Emily Potts providing introductions and musical performances to enhance the historical experience.
Through these programs, Hammontree continues to combine education, storytelling, and historical accuracy to help audiences better understand the people and events that shaped the nation.
Note: Some of the photo’s are AI generated
