By Jeff Sovelove
The Morristown Green suited General Washington and his troops just fine. But modern Morristown may need a bigger Green to salute its Revolutionary past, judging by the attendance at Tuesday’s Independence Day celebration.
A big turnout enjoyed the traditional reading the full Declaration of Independence, which was accompanied by songs, speeches, and a 21-gun salute.
Carol Barkin of the Morris County Tourism Bureau welcomed everyone, and singer/ songwriter Gordon Thomas Ward warmed up the large crowd with some original music.
Morris Freeholder Christine Myers offered some remarks, after which Morristown Council President Stefan Armington led the Pledge of Allegiance. Patricia Sanftner of the Daughters of the American Revolution sang a wonderful rendition of the National Anthem.
Slideshow photos by Jeff Sovelove:
Eric Olsen of the National Park Service encouraged audience members to interact as they would have when the Declaration was first read publicly on July 8, 1776 — with cheers of “Huzzah!,” boos, and other shouts as appropriate.
Tom Winslow of the National Park Service read the Declaration of Independence in his usual rousing style, followed by a 21-gun salute from re-enactors as it would have been delivered 241 years ago.
They fired 3 volleys, right to left, left to right, and then a massed volley, which they ended with a salute to the crowd and photos with the public.
Hip hip huzzah!
Video playlist, by Jeff Sovelove. Toggle to view:
