Dear Mr.
Bendis:
On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress voted to adopt
the Declaration of Independence. Many people learned of the historic
vote by reading their
newspaper,
the Pennsylvania Evening Post. A copy of this newspaper
survived the centuries and is now a part of The American Revolution
Center's collection.
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Those that supported the Declaration put their lives, fortunes,
and sacred honor in great peril. Anticipating the impact of this
revolutionary document, John Adams wrote his wife Abigail on July 3,
saying "I am well
aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to
maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States." Yet
his belief in the successful outcome was resolute. In the same letter,
he describes how future generations ought to commemorate the vote for
independence 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."
As we prepare
to celebrate the anniversary of the day that marks the birth of America,
we invite you to visit our website, take a quiz to test your knowledge of the American
Revolution, and explore our education and collection pages to learn more about this
extraordinary period. You can also read about the
development of The Museum of the American Revolution-the nation's
first museum
commemorating the entire story of the American Revolution and its
ongoing legacy.
As we gather
this weekend with friends and family, let's remember those past and
present who have, and continue to toil and sacrifice so that we may
enjoy peace, liberty and independence.
Thank you for
your interest, we welcome your support.
Happy Birthday, America!
Bruce Cole
President and
CEO
The American Revolution Center
