The Prayer at Valley Forge

“The Prayer at Valley Forge” stands as a cherished reminder of a pivotal moment in America’s early struggle for independence—those desperate winter months of 1777–78 when the young nation’s future hung in the balance. It was there, in the bitter cold of Valley Forge, that General George Washington is said to have knelt in earnest prayer, seeking God’s guidance and help.

Modern computer graphic artist R. Hansen created the artwork you see here with careful attention to historical accuracy and respect. This portrayal of Washington draws closely from the life mask taken in 1785 by French sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon, widely regarded as the most reliable likeness of Washington ever produced. By studying multiple authenticated portraits and Washington’s known features, Hansen shaped the rendering to reflect how Washington would have appeared eight years earlier—around age 45, during the Valley Forge encampment.

Though no written record survives of Washington’s prayer in the snow that day, his heart for God is clearly revealed in other writings. In his Thanksgiving Proclamation of 1789, he offered this earnest prayer:

“I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have the United States in His holy protection…”

He went on to ask that the nation be governed by wise, just, and constitutional laws.

In a personal journal entry, Washington prayed with even greater intimacy:

“Pardon, I beseech Thee, my sins; remove them from Thy presence as far as the east is from the west, and accept of me for the merits of Thy Son Jesus Christ.”

These words, together with the legacy of Valley Forge, continue to testify to the deep faith and humility of America’s first Commander-in-Chief.

Permission to Use Image: R. Hansen and The Good Book Company LLC grant you permission to use “The Prayer at Valley Forge” image on websites when accompanied by the following phrase, “Image is used by permission of ThePrayerAtValleyForge.com.”  This version of “The Prayer at Valley Forge” is not associated in any way with Arnold Friberg or Arnold Friberg Fine Art.  If you need a specific size and/or other usage, please contact us at inspiration@thegoodbookcompany.com. Thank you.