The Brandywine An American Icon
The Brandywine isn't the largest in the area. In fact, compared to the nearby Delaware River, into which it eventually flows via the Christina River, it's practically diminutive. But what the Brandywine lacks in size, it makes up for in its tremendously rich cultural and historical legacy.
The River's story begins with the indigenous Lenape tribe, who called it "Wawaset," "Sittacunck," and "Tankopanican." In 1777, it was the site of the Battle of Brandywine, the largest land battle of the Revolutionary War, which took place between British and Hessian forces and the Continental Army under George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette.
A Mainstay of American Industry
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Brandywine was also highly desirable real estate for industrious Europeans who recognized the river for what it was: an ideally situated source of hydropower. Historians have even referred to it as "the Silicon Valley of its day," in reference to its importance to industry at the time.
One of these hopeful businessmen was the French migrant Eleuthére Irenée du Pont de Nemours (or E. I. du Pont), who founded the Eleutherian Mills along the banks of the Brandywine in 1802.
In the coming decades, du Pont's gunpowder mill would become the largest and most successful in the country, thanks to the power generated by water wheels and turbines in the Brandywine—some of which, such as the Birkenhead Mill, can still be seen in action at Hagley today.
Today, the Brandywine provides a peaceful natural recreation site for tubing, hiking, and canoeing, as well as an opportunity for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the plethora of historic sites that line the river. At Hagley, the Brandywine presents a tranquil, appealing backdrop to the du Pont powder yards, workers' community, and family home that make up the estate.
To experience the historic Brandywine for yourself, consider visiting us! The mission of Hagley Museum and Library is to foster innovation and inspiration through our historical collections. Located on the site of E.I. du Pont's gunpowder works, Hagley's offerings include a library dedicated to the study of American business and technology, a unique patent model collection, and the restored historical mill and workers' community, as well as the home and gardens of the du Pont family. Hagley also hosts a variety of events intended to educate and engage the wider community. Plan your visit today, or consider donating to support our work!