Rooted in the same historic landscape that witnessed the American Revolution, the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board (VFTCB) continues its mission of sharing the stories that define Montgomery County, especially as we approach America’s 250th Anniversary.
Through monthly historic vignettes and upcoming initiatives like the Houses of Declaration, VFTCB is continuing a legacy by sharing the stories of historical landmarks that #MakeItMontco and connect to the founding of our nation. This month, VFTCB encourages you to travel to one of Southeastern PA’s most historic sites, Historic Trappe.
This is one of the oldest settlements in the region, founded in 1717 along a significant colonial roadway. Today, the borough preserves a collection of significant sites tied to the influential Muhlenberg family and Pennsylvania German Culture, allowing for a deeper look into the people, places, and traditions that have shaped early America.
Sites within Historic Trappe include the Muhlenberg house, Dewees Tavern, and Speaker’s house. Here, visitors can explore the legacy of Lutheran Pastor Henry Muhlenberg and his son, Revolutionary War figure Peter Muhlenberg. Speaker’s House is home to the first speaker of the U.S. House, Fredrick Muhlenberg. This house has been undergoing extensive restoration, so be sure not to miss its grand reopening on Apr. 11, 2026.
The Dewees Tavern at Historic Trappe serves as the Center for Pennsylvania German Studies, with exhibitions, collections, and educational programming. Together, these sites create an immersive experience that connects visitors to the craftsmanship, traditions, and lived experiences of the 18th century.
Located in central Montgomery County, Historic Trappe offers regular guided tours and special events. This summer, in celebration of America 250, expanded programming will highlight Historic Trappe’s role in the American Revolution, with a focus on the Muhlenberg family and the experiences of Pennsylvania Germans during the war.
The VFTCB’s Houses of Declaration Initiative will be a countywide effort to highlight historic landmarks connected to the American Revolution and the founding of our nation for the celebration of the United States’ Sesquicentennial, with live readings of the Declaration of Independence.
While each historic site tells its own unique story, together they create a broader picture of Montgomery County’s role in America’s independence. VFTCB is proud to share that Historic Trappe is included as a Houses of Declaration site, and that through this initiative and storytelling efforts, visitors are able to explore the places that have shaped our past and continue to define Montco today. We invite you to explore even more through our Montco History Pass. This is a free digital pass giving the convenience of more historic locations all in one place. Learn more and sign up here!
Learn more about VFTCB, a private, non-profit membership sales and marketing organization that actively promotes the Valley Forge area and Montgomery County as a convention site and leisure visitor destination by promoting patronage of its member hotels, restaurants, attractions, and services.
