Cooch's Bridge Battlefield: Delaware's Revolutionary War Site
Walk the grounds where the only Revolutionary War battle in Delaware took place and where the Stars and Stripes may have first flown in combat.
Cooch's Bridge Battlefield, located in Newark, Delaware, is a significant landmark as the site of Delaware's only Revolutionary War battle. Fought on September 3, 1777, the Battle of Cooch's Bridge saw American forces, led by General William Maxwell, clash with British and Hessian troops. The battle, also known as the Battle of Iron Hill, was part of the Philadelphia Campaign. While the battle itself was a British victory, the site holds a special place in American history. Some traditions claim that the Battle of Cooch's Bridge was the first time the newly created Stars and Stripes flag was flown in battle. Although this claim is debated, it adds to the site's historical allure. Today, visitors can walk the grounds and reflect on the events that took place. Informative plaques recount the battle's narrative and its strategic importance in the fight for independence. The battlefield offers a serene environment for appreciating history and nature. The site is currently undergoing preservation and renovation as it transitions from private to public ownership. Visitors can explore the landscape and connect with the past.
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience and optimal lighting for photography.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are trails to explore around the battlefield.
A brief summary to Cooch's Bridge Battlefield
- S Old Baltimore Pike, Newark, Delaware, 19702, US
Getting There
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Car
If driving from the center of The Brandywine Valley, head southeast on Kennett Pike (Route 52) towards Wilmington. Continue on Route 52, then merge onto I-95 South towards Baltimore. Take exit 109A for DE-273 East towards Newark. Follow DE-273 East until the intersection with S Old Baltimore Pike, then turn left. Cooch's Bridge Battlefield will be on the right. Parking is available along the road.
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Public Transport
To reach Cooch's Bridge Battlefield via public transportation, take a DART First State bus route 40 or 44 from Wilmington. Get off at the stop closest to the intersection of DE-273 and S Old Baltimore Pike. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk (0.7 miles) to the battlefield. Head south on S Old Baltimore Pike. A one-way bus fare is approximately $2.
