On this day 244 years ago, our country’s 13 original colonies declared, via approval of the “Declaration of Independence,” their legal separation from the monarchy of Great Britain. The words of John Adams, written in the archaic verse of the time, describes the event this way: “I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.” (Source – The Massachusetts Historical Society)

Adams wrote these words two days before the actual approval of the “Declaration of Independence,” and his vision for annual observation of this landmark event has come alive through the years. It’s recognized as the midpoint of our summer recreation time, although this year is a bit different. With a resurgent pandemic forcing a more subdued celebration in many quarters, July 4, 2020 may be a bit restrained. Rest assured, though, that despite social distancing and restrictive measures imposed on us, true patriots continue to honor this day as the birth of what we now know as the United States of America.

Enjoy your Holiday!