Fort Stanwix Honors the Declaration of Independence

Date: June 26, 2007
Contact: William Sawyer, 315 338-7730

Two hundred thirty years ago, on July 4, 1777, Continental Soldiers and camp followers assembled on the parade ground to hear the Declaration of Independence read to them. These inspiring words reminded the men, women and children that their sacrifices were going to make the United States of America a free and independent nation. The fort’s garrison assembled every year from 1776 to 1781 to listen to the words of this important document, and today’s staff, volunteers and park partners continue honoring this tradition.

“We are very excited about this year’s events,” said Debbie Conway, Superintendent of Fort Stanwix. “Come out and enjoy all of the day’s activities. The events are designed for family participation. People of all ages will have fun signing the Declaration of Independence with quill and ink, learn, and honor everyone who struggled and made sacrifices to make the United States of America a free and independent country.”

Events take place throughout the day:

9:00 a.m. Honor Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier

11:00 a.m. Public Reading and Signing of the Declaration of Independence

11:30 a.m. Musket and Cannon Salute to the United States of America

2:00 p.m. Public Reading and Signing of the Declaration of Independence

2:30 p.m. Musket and Cannon Salute to the United States of America

3:00 p.m. Ranger Guided Program

Fort Stanwix National Monument is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission to the park is free. Activities are ongoing unless noted. For more information about upcoming events please call the park at [phone]. Please visit the park's web page at www.nps.gov/fost for additional information about the park and up to date news about park events.

                           
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