Starting gun

Independence Day has gone through some changes over the years. Our notion of patriotism once focused much more on communitarian values, and less on the individual. A case in point is this excerpt from Franklin Benjamin Hough's History of St. Lawrence and Franklin County (1853). It concerns celebrations in the Town of Potsdam organized by pioneer settler Liberty Knowles.

"In 1825 the citizens of this town united in celebrating the national anniversary in a manner quite novel and utilitarian:

"Resolved therefore that it be recommended to the citizens of said town, to assemble the village, at an early hour on the 4th day of July next, with teams and suitable implements, for the purpose of embanking the meeting houses and gun house, and improving the public square in said town, as a principal part of the exercises of that day.

"Order of the Day:
1. The day will be ushered in by the discharge of cannon.
2. At half past 7 0'clock, A.M., prayers will be attended on the common.
3. Labor will commence at 8 o'clock A.M., at the discharge of one gun.
4. At half past 12 o'clock, at noon, at the discharge of a gun and the sound of a bugle, the procession will form, and, aided by the band, will march to the table (on the common), to be furnished with the provisions which each man will bring with him; and it is presumed some appendages will be added by the people of the village. Liquor will be furnished by the committee.
5. At half past one o'clock, P.M., labor will recommence, at the sound of the bugle.
6. At 5 o'clock, P.M., the sound of the bugle will announce the cessation of labor, when the procession will form and proceed to the place for receiving the address, from Rev. Wallace.
7. The day will close with music and the discharge of cannon."

Enjoy the holiday.