Today has been the perfect Independence Day celebration for me. I took an early morning walk, noting the banners and flags and displays of our country’s celebration of freedom. I volunteered to be part of Hanna’s Town’s Free Museum day and was on site by 10am. Hanna’s Town is an historic site that dates to the Revolutionary War era. I was stationed in the Tavern, and was able to share with guests the history of that area of Western Pennsylvania, the town itself, and the colonial way of life in the 1770’s.
My sister and brother in law, my niece and her husband and their daughter came out to be part of the day – and I was so glad to have them there! Made me proud to share with my family! The site was busy all day, and I recounted the same facts so many times I lost myself trying to remember what I told which group. Some were very receptive and wanted as much information as I could provide; others wanted a quick synopsis and then were on their way to the next area. I loved sharing the information. One gentleman sat down and we just chatted for about half an hour – and he was excited every time he learned a new fact! He spent time with Proctor’s Militia as well, and they said he gave me 5 stars for presentation and information! How fun! I’m pretty sure everyone enjoyed their day.
Members of Proctor’s read the Declaration of Independence twice; once in the morning and once late afternoon. The familiar words brought chills to my spine, as I listed to the recitation and let the thoughts and intentions of those early patriots sink in. Very humbling and encouraging. There was even a rifle salute after the readings.
Several ladies from the militia were cooking over an open fire right outside the tavern window, and the roasting chicken aromas wafted through and smelled wonderful. The food they cooked would be served to the militia for dinner, as many of them were camping there overnight.
I left Hanna’s Town, came home and took a quick shower (it was very hot in the closed in tavern!) and spent the evening at Nate’s. He cooked burgers and dogs on the grill, and we all sat outside and enjoyed the summer evening. When I pulled into my neighborhood, houses up and down all of the streets were setting off fireworks. Probably the biggest display that has ever been set off in the neighborhood. I stood outside on the driveway and tried to look in all directions. The bright orange moon added to the wonder of the night sky, filled with bright colors of lights raining down over the trees and rooftops. Perfect ending.
But here are some facts that you may or may not know about the 4th of July. It was not declared a federal holiday until 1870. Three presidents died on July 4th: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and James Monroe. John Hancock’s signature is the largest on the Declaration of Independence (and I believe he was the first to sign!). Fireworks have been part of Independence celebrations since 1777. Massachusetts was the first state to make Independence Day a Holiday. The liberty bell has not been rung since 1846 because of a crack which occurred that year when it was rung in celebration of George Washington’s birthday. And lastly, it’s my favorite holiday! Who knew???
On this date in 1776 the Liberty Bell rang for the 2nd continental congress. Also in 1776 the United States declares independence from Britain. General Lee’s army withdraws from Gettysburg in 1863. In 1884 the Statue of Liberty was presented to the US in Paris. US raises the flag at Iwo Jimo in 1944. And today is Independence Day. That is more than enough!
And let me say, as Lee Greenwood so aptly said years ago, GOD BLESS THE USA!
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