Independence Day is one of the most pivotal moments in our country's history. On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress shared the Declaration of Independence, a document that proclaimed that the 13 colonies in America would no longer live under the British Crown. The 4th of July is now celebrated as America's birthday, and citizens throughout the country will often host barbeques and other outdoor gatherings to honor the day. While it is important to enjoy the day, I wanted to take a moment to remember the history behind the holiday.
Although the vote to declare independence was unanimous, it was far from a quick and easy process. Much like the Connecticut General Assembly today, all of the delegates came from vastly different areas, held different beliefs, and had different priorities. In order to showcase a united front, the goal was to create something that satisfied everyone. The delegates had to work tirelessly together in order to keep the dream of independence alive. After weeks of fierce and fiery debate, on July 2, the Second Continental Congress voted to approve the resolution of freedom. They now focused their attention on a document that would proclaim their freedom to the world.
The Declaration of Independence was written by five men, including Connecticut Representative Rodger Sherman. After receiving revisions and notes from their fellow delegates, the document was approved on July 4th. It is full of promises that we have worked hard to uphold, most famously "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." The Declaration is an imperfect document created by imperfect men, most from states where slavery was entrenched and indigenous people displaced. But the Declaration provided our country with the foundation necessary to succeed and later to form a union under our Constitution, as well as the foundation to continue to work to make our united country a better and better one.
Our community is filled with reminders and memorials of our ancestors’ commitment to fighting for freedom. As you walk around Ridgefield, remember that you are walking on hallowed ground. There are several reminders of the Battle of Ridgefield throughout our community. If you have some time this weekend, check out the plaques around town that designate battle sites. You can also visit the Keeler Tavern – a cannonball fired during the battle is lodged in the building and can be viewed by guests. Finally, the "Wooster" streets in Ridgefield were named to honor General David Wooster, who died because of injuries sustained in the battle.
History is all around us. Although the battle occurred hundreds of years ago, we are still learning more. In 2019, archeologists discovered what they believe are the remains of soldiers from the Battle of Ridgefield. Although they have not determined which side these men fought for, it is yet another reminder of our town's rich history.
The Fourth of July is a yearly reminder that the formation of our country was not a given. Plenty of hard work and sacrifice went into creating the America we know and love today. Plenty is needed to ensure our democracy delivers on its promise today, for everyone. I encourage you to take a moment this weekend to learn and think about the history in our local area and consider the lessons it has for all of us.