February Message

As we turn the calendar to February, we are reminded that this is a month of reflection, resolve, and remembrance. Winter still holds the land in its grasp, yet the days slowly lengthen, hinting at brighter times ahead. In many ways, February mirrors the mood of the Continental Army during the Revolution, cold winds, hard marches, and scarce supplies, but also unwavering determination and powerful moments that shaped the destiny of our nation.

February is rich with pivotal events in the story of American independence, beginning with the legacy of one of our nation’s greatest heroes. On February 22, 1732, George Washington was born, a man whose leadership, fortitude, and humility would guide an emerging nation through its darkest hours. His birthday remained one of the most cherished celebrations of the 18th and 19th centuries, and today we continue to honor him not only as the Commander-in-Chief of our Continental forces, but as a symbol of American character and virtue. Every February, we pause to remember Washington not simply as a man of his time, but as a timeless example of what principled leadership can accomplish.

This month also holds the anniversary of the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge, fought on February 27, 1776, in North Carolina. Often called the “Lexington and Concord of the South,” this brief but decisive engagement saw Patriot militia rout Loyalist forces attempting to march toward the coast to join the British fleet. The stunning Patriot victory destroyed British hopes for an early Loyalist uprising in the South, strengthened the revolutionary cause in the Carolinas, and gave colonists renewed confidence only months before independence was declared.

February also reminds us of the grueling winter encampments that tested the endurance of the Continental Army. In February 1778, following the bleakest stretch of the Valley Forge encampment, the men began to feel the first effects of Baron von Steuben’s training. Under his disciplined instruction, the army transformed from a weary collection of regiments into a more unified, professional fighting force. Morale lifted as the soldiers realized they were becoming equal to the British regulars they had long feared. February at Valley Forge was less about grand battles and more about daily courage, learning, shaping, drilling, and preparing for the spring campaign ahead.

One must also recall how the war played out on the seas in February. On February 6, 1778, France officially signed the Treaty of Alliance with the United States, recognizing American independence and promising military support. This agreement changed the course of the war dramatically, placing global pressure on Britain and giving the revolution a fighting chance at ultimate victory. It was, in many ways, the diplomatic turning point of the entire struggle.

1 A depiction of the signing by Charles E. Mills

Even in the final year of the war, February held significance. In February 1782, the British House of Commons voted against continuing the war in America, acknowledging that victory was no longer attainable. While peace negotiations would take many more months, the vote signaled that the long conflict was drawing to a close. Hope began to replace hardship as the people of the new United States sensed the promise of freedom drawing near.

And let us not forget one of the most beloved traditions with roots in this era: Washington’s Birthday celebrations, once filled with parades, toasts, patriotic poems, and lively gatherings. These observances helped unify early Americans and are echoed today in the work of the Sons of the American Revolution as we continue to honor the man and the mission he embodied.

As we move through the month of February, we may be inspired by the patience, endurance, and vision that our Patriot ancestors demonstrated during this season of the Revolution. Their footsteps in the snow, through battles, encampments, diplomatic triumphs, and the forging of a new nation, remind us that liberty often grows in the coldest season, nurtured by courage and conviction.

Let us continue our mission with the same steadfast spirit, honoring the legacy of the heroes who shaped our nation.