July 4: Independence Day

“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.”

In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence, which proclaims the independence of the United States of America from Great Britain and its king. The declaration came 442 days after the first volleys of the American Revolution were fired at Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts.

The Declaration of Independence was largely the work of Virginian Thomas Jefferson.

On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted to approve a Virginia motion calling for separation from Britain. The dramatic words of this resolution were added to the closing of the Declaration of Independence. Two days later, on July 4, the declaration was formally adopted by 12 colonies after minor revision. New York approved it on July 19. On August 2, the declaration was signed.

Read more at: http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/us-declares-independence

Various activities are planned throughout the county to celebrate this special day.  Visit our calendar of events page for details: http://marioncvb.wpengine.com/index.php?option=com_jcalpro&Itemid=1&date=2012-07-04

Some of the area communities sponsoring activities are:

Fairview www.fairview4th.org

Prickett’s Fort www.prickettsfort.org

Mannington 304.986.2037

Palatine Park, Fairmont 304.365.3575