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Summary and Objective
The year 1826 marked the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence, was 82. His friend John Adams was 90. Both signers were too ill to accept invitations to appear in Fourth of July celebrations. They both died on that day. The death of these two founding fathers on the 50th anniversary of Independence Day seemed to prove to some Americans that indeed America had a special destiny.
Various documents from the American Centuries Collection will be used to help the class re-enact an 1826 Fourth of July Jubillee. Students will be introduced to some of the ways that Americans celebrated Independence Day in the past by doing many of the same activities which made up the Independence Day Jubillee in 1826.
Teaching Plan
Step 1.
Class will share the reading of the Declaration of Independence which was a common feature of early Fourth of July celebrations.
Step 2.
Students will listen to religious music or hymns while the class reviews "Hymn for Fourth of July 1826". Class discussion can include why religious music played a role in early celebrations.
Step 3.
Local militia could have a part in celebrating the Fourth of July. The class can look at "Notification to Consider Dickensen," and discuss the importance of militia in early America.
Step 4.
Teacher can supply juice and cups for a Fourth of July toast. Students will read thirteen toasts from George Sheldon's book "History of Deerfield," which was submitted to the American Centuries website collection.
Step 5.
Class can discuss the importance of thirteen toasts and related information concerning drinking and resulting temperance movements in this time period. "Wine Glasses" can be used for related discussion.
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