March 28, 2024

Rereading of the Declaration of Independence again in Dighton

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS - THURSDAY EVENING, JULY 4TH, 2019, AT 8:40 P.M.

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE at Dighton Community Church

The Eighth Annual Historic Rereading of the Declaration of Independence and Cemetery Walk at the Dighton Community Church on Elm Street

2019 is our last opportunity to hear Patrick Menges reread this document - - -

Local orator Patrick W. Menges will reread the Declaration of Independence for his eighth and final time, as he passes the torch to some future reader, going forward. His excellent delivery of the document which formed our nation is something everyone who can attend should not miss. We literally step back into history for that short candlelit time as the powerful voice of American freedom pulses through the air of the sanctuary, and every year more people come from all over New England to hear his presentation.

The Declaration was first read in this Dighton church on July 13, 1776, by Reverend Ezra Stiles, only nine days after it was adopted and while it bore only two signatures – those of John Hancock and Charles Thompson, President and Secretary of the Second Continental Congress.

An optional CANDLELIGHT WALK precedes the rereading – weather permitting. Forming at 8:40 p.m. and beginning at 8: 50 p.m., the candlelight walk through the historic cemetery behind the church will take place before the rereading at 9 p.m. Candles will be provided, and everyone is invited to participate, should they wish to do so. Colonial dress is welcomed, but not required.

In the cemetery, before entering the church to hear the Declaration itself, visitors will hear the July 3, 1776, letter written by John Adams to his wife with his thoughts about celebrating the Fourth of July. Weather permitting, his call for guns (Colonial Muskets,) bells and bonfires and other illuminations will be part of the celebration that follows after the solemn dignity of the rereading.

In keeping with the historic atmosphere of the occasion, cell phones speakers and cameras with flash are respectfully not allowed during the rereading. Photos may be taken outside and afterward., inside the church.

The event is free of charge, candles will be provided and there will be light refreshments following the rereading.

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