Declaration Celebration at Fairfield Museum July 10

FAIRFIELD, CT – Three cheers for the red, white and blue! Bring your friends and family to Fairfield’s historic Town Green on Sunday, July 10, 10am to 4pm to celebrate our special display of the Declaration of Independence at the Fairfield Museum’s Declaration Celebration! Pack a picnic or sample from local food trucks as you enjoy crafts, games, a British encampment, walking tours and family fun! 

View a real British encampment that will simulate what Fairfield looked like when the Redcoats invaded. Experience life during the Revolutionary War by visiting with members of the 54^th CT Regiment of Foot, a British regiment like the ones who invaded Fairfield in 1779. The members of the 54th will set up a British soldier’s encampment, explaining the equipment that was likely used during the British invasion of Fairfield as well as demonstrating the manual of arms. There might also be a need to proclaim the “King’s will” to those in attendance while being part of the force occupying the town for the day!

In addition, Burning of Fairfield Walking Tours are also being offered on July 10, every half hour 12:30-2pm. Stroll back in time while exploring the history and events surrounding the attack on Fairfield by the British on July 7-8, 1779. Pre-registration is required. Adults: $10; Students: $5. Sign up at https://2016burningfairfieldwalkingtours.eventbrite.com.

In honor of the 240^th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, visitors are invited to a view an early version of the Declaration of Independence, which will be on display July 1-17. The document on display is a print from a copperplate engraving that John Quincy Adams (as Secretary of State) commissioned when he realized the original Declaration was deteriorating from frequent use. Completed in 1823, it is the best representation of what the document looked like before the signatures began to fade. This version of the Declaration is one of six known copies printed on heavy paper, with the first edition imprint on top, and is loaned to the Museum by Seth Kaller, Inc. Other historic items will also be on display, including Thomas Jefferson’s copy of the journals of Congress in 1776, documents from Connecticut signers of the Declaration, and later items that reflect its legacy.

The Declaration of Independence display is sponsored by Patriot Bank. "Since the colonial era, Connecticut and its leaders have played a critical role in the founding and success of our nation,” said Kenneth Neilson, President and CEO at Patriot Bank, N.A.  “Nearly 250 years ago the Patriots who founded and fought for America’s independence lived and worked right here in Fairfield County. Today we not only recognize but seek to emulate the role models they were in shaping the democracy that is the United States.  It is a great honor for Patriot bank to support and sponsor the Fairfield Museum and History Center’s public display of our nation’s historic Declaration of Independence.”

Check the Fairfield Museum website, Fairfieldhistory.org, for updated information on food trucks and more. The Buzz Truck will be on site 10am-1pm.