Heritage Center

About the Heritage Center

Historic Significance

The Duportail House served as headquarters for General Louis Lebègue Duportail, George Washington’s Chief Engineer, who planned Valley Forge’s defenses during the Revolutionary War’s darkest hours. Recruited by Benjamin Franklin and loaned by France, Duportail founded what would become the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and helped establish West Point Military Academy. His motto “Essayons” (“Let us try”) remains the Corps’ official motto today.

What You’ll Experience

The heritage campus features three historic structures:

• The Duportail House (1740) – Where Revolutionary War defense plans were created
• The Federal Barn (1792) – A rare surviving bank barn with original builder inscriptions

Interactive experiences include:

• Digital touch-screen kiosks with multimedia storytelling
• Direct connections to Valley Forge National Historical Park
• Access from the Chester Valley Trail
• Educational programs and living history demonstrations

Economic & Community Impact

Chester County’s heritage tourism is projected to generate $65-118 million in economic impact. The Heritage Center will be a cornerstone of this growth, serving as a key stop on the proposed Patriots Trail and drawing visitors directly from the Chester Valley Trail into local businesses.

Why Now?

With America’s 250th anniversary in July 2026 rapidly approaching, the Heritage Center must complete its
transformation to welcome the expected surge in heritage tourism. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to
preserve and share the story of where American independence was secured.

The $350,000 Campaign

Your Investment Creates:

• Interactive Technology: Touch-screen kiosks connecting to regional Revolutionary sites
• Universal Access: ADA-compliant facilities for all visitors
• Professional Interpretation: Signage bringing the Philadelphia Campaign to life
• Educational Programs: School visits and community events

Celebrate History Where History Was Made

The Tredyffrin Heritage Center at Duportail offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to honor our shared
history and ensure this site continues to serve as a community treasure for centuries to come. The following
naming opportunities recognize leadership-level donors whose gifts will make this transformation possible.

The Heritage Lawn – $75,000

The open green in front of Duportail House where tours gather, events begin, and community celebrations take place. Visible from both the parking area and the Chester Valley Trail connection, it serves as a prominent and welcoming feature on campus.

Recognition: Featured on campus entrance signage, brochures, website, and donor recognition materials.

The Federal Barn Education Center – $50,000

Built in 1792, the Federal Barn will be reimagined as a hands-on interpretive and education venue, where visitors, students, and community groups can explore Tredyffrin’s role in the Revolutionary Philadelphia Campaign and the evolution of local industry and agriculture.

Recognition: Prominent interior signage and acknowledgment in print and digital materials.

The Digital Heritage Kiosk Sponsor – $35,000

The Digital Heritage Kiosk will be the central hub connecting the Tredyffrin Heritage Center to Chester County’s tourism network. This outdoor, high-visibility touchscreen will offer maps, photos, videos, and stories linking Duportail’s history to the Valley Forge Encampment, nearby heritage sites, and local dining, shopping, and lodging.

Recognition: Donor name integrated into the kiosk frame and digital welcome screen, with acknowledgment as the exclusive Kiosk Sponsor.

The Havard Family Heritage Garden – $25,000

The Havard Gazebo honors John Havard Jr., the Welsh farmer who built the Duportail House in 1740 and whose family cared for this land for nearly two centuries. Inspired by the property’s original gardens and agricultural heritage, the Havard Gazebo will offer a welcoming outdoor space for reflection, conversation, and serve as a centerpiece for community gatherings

Recognition: Engraved plaque and acknowledgment in materials.

Leadership Circles

Join our growing community of supporters who are making this vision possible:

• Valley Forge Defenders Circle – $10,000
• Patriots Society – $5,000
• Continental Army Friends – $2,500+
• Essayons Society (Let Us Try) – $1,000+

All donors will be recognized on the Founders Wall within the Heritage Center, featured in printed and digital donor listings, and invited to the campus dedication and opening celebration.