Philly.com: Exhibit looks at the King James Version's role in the American Revolution
April 06, 2011|By David O'Reilly, Inquirer Staff Writer
The Rev. Timothy Safford of Christ Church with the Vinegar Bible of 1717, so called because of its…In an age when the fires of revolution are spread through cyberspace, it's hard to imagine that the leather-bound volumes resting in display cases at Old Christ Church once had the same incendiary effect.
But the Authorized King James Edition of the Bible, translated into English 400 years ago from Latin and Greek with the aid of earlier versions, was nothing short of a radical text whose populist ethos sowed the seeds of the American Revolution.
"It was the colonists' belief - which they discovered in Scripture, in English - that humankind is free because freedom is an inalienable right endowed by their divine maker," the Rev. Timothy Safford said Tuesday.
It is "justly famous for its beautiful language," he said. "But it also has an American story - and a Philadelphia story."
A first-edition King James "pulpit Bible," printed in 1611, is among 19 historic Bibles on exhibit through the end of May at the church, on North Second Street in Old City.
Most of the well-worn tomes have been in the church's collection for centuries. Chances are, many of the nation's founders - the likes of Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, James Madison, and Benjamin Rush - sat in the painted pews and heard the Holy Writ read from some of them.
On Thursday only, an even rarer treasure will be put on display: an "Aitken's" Bible, on brief loan from the Library Company of Philadelphia.
That Bible, Safford said, represented a "second Declaration of Independence."
In 1782, the Continental Congress decided not to use the Bible authorized by the crown, and cast about for a citizen of the colonies to authorize an American version. Local printer Robert Aitken was commissioned to publish a King James edition, true to the original but expressly printed for the new nation. It was turned over to the Rev. William White, rector of Christ Church and chaplain to Congress, to declare it authoritative.
Historians at the church speculate that White simply proofread Aitken's pages as they came off the presses, comparing them with his own texts and pronouncing them accurate.
"The King James Version may be 400 years old," said Safford, "but it's also the Bible of the Revolution."
Also on display at the church is a massive, lavishly illustrated "Vinegar Bible" of 1717. Its nickname derives from its many typographical errors, the most famous of which is its reference to the "Parable of the Vineyard" as the "Parable of the Vinegar."
Friday, April 8, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
Morristown National Historical Park to host "Revolutionary Times Weekend'
Daily Record (New Jersey): Morristown National Historical Park to host "Revolutionary Times Weekend'
The Morristown National Historical Park will host a "Revolutionary Times Weekend," beginning April 15, in an effort to promote the importance of Morristown and New Jersey to the American Revolution.
All of the weekend activities will be held at sites within the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area to maintain a high level of authenticity. Most of the events are free and open to the public.
"The Morristown National Historical Park area is significant because Washington actually camped there during the Revolutionary War," said Justin Monetti, the park's chief of interpretation. "The other sites will generally serve to make it as it was during the time period."
Event topics are diverse, with the intent of encompassing most elements of 18th-century life. Participants can learn firsthand how food was prepared during the time period, as well as take part in traditional spinning and weaving demonstrations.
A Martha Washington Tea and Reception follows the opening ceremony on April 15, and a cocktail reception and conversation with Alexander Hamilton (as portrayed by a costumed interpreter) will take place on the same day.
There will be a Jockey Hollow Continental Army Encampment with the Helms Company, a group of volunteers dedicated to portraying New Jersey's second regiment in the Revolutionary War.
To help make a lasting impression, Helms Company will be assisted by approximately 40 additional costumed re-enactors as they present military and camp-life demonstrations throughout the day, including special "recruitment drills" for children.
"Quite a few people come out to the campsite," said Monetti. "Events are going on all day long, so it's a steady flow of people."
This year's "Revolutionary Times Weekend" is further aided in its effort to seamlessly connect New Jersey residents with its history by coinciding with Morristown's "Downtown Morristown Restaurant Week" on April 15 and April 16. "Restaurant Week" businesses will offer menus with fixed prices for lunch and/or dinner, or special promotions in their establishments.
Additionally, throughout the weekend, Morristown National Historical Park and National Park Service sales items and souvenirs from the park's gift shops will be available for purchase in downtown Morristown at the following locations: Del's Novelty & Party Supply Shop, 84 Elm St.; Greenberry's Coffee & Tea Company, 46 Park Place; International Pottery, 8 South St., and Swaine's of Morristown at 68 South St.
"I've really never touted myself as an extreme history buff, but this is a really wonderful experience for anyone, especially families," said Monetti. "Most of the events taking place are free, and in these tough economic times, it's great to have something that everyone can enjoy that won't cost you much."
The Morristown National Historical Park will host a "Revolutionary Times Weekend," beginning April 15, in an effort to promote the importance of Morristown and New Jersey to the American Revolution.
All of the weekend activities will be held at sites within the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area to maintain a high level of authenticity. Most of the events are free and open to the public.
"The Morristown National Historical Park area is significant because Washington actually camped there during the Revolutionary War," said Justin Monetti, the park's chief of interpretation. "The other sites will generally serve to make it as it was during the time period."
Event topics are diverse, with the intent of encompassing most elements of 18th-century life. Participants can learn firsthand how food was prepared during the time period, as well as take part in traditional spinning and weaving demonstrations.
A Martha Washington Tea and Reception follows the opening ceremony on April 15, and a cocktail reception and conversation with Alexander Hamilton (as portrayed by a costumed interpreter) will take place on the same day.
There will be a Jockey Hollow Continental Army Encampment with the Helms Company, a group of volunteers dedicated to portraying New Jersey's second regiment in the Revolutionary War.
To help make a lasting impression, Helms Company will be assisted by approximately 40 additional costumed re-enactors as they present military and camp-life demonstrations throughout the day, including special "recruitment drills" for children.
"Quite a few people come out to the campsite," said Monetti. "Events are going on all day long, so it's a steady flow of people."
This year's "Revolutionary Times Weekend" is further aided in its effort to seamlessly connect New Jersey residents with its history by coinciding with Morristown's "Downtown Morristown Restaurant Week" on April 15 and April 16. "Restaurant Week" businesses will offer menus with fixed prices for lunch and/or dinner, or special promotions in their establishments.
Additionally, throughout the weekend, Morristown National Historical Park and National Park Service sales items and souvenirs from the park's gift shops will be available for purchase in downtown Morristown at the following locations: Del's Novelty & Party Supply Shop, 84 Elm St.; Greenberry's Coffee & Tea Company, 46 Park Place; International Pottery, 8 South St., and Swaine's of Morristown at 68 South St.
"I've really never touted myself as an extreme history buff, but this is a really wonderful experience for anyone, especially families," said Monetti. "Most of the events taking place are free, and in these tough economic times, it's great to have something that everyone can enjoy that won't cost you much."
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Get your muskets ready - Patriot's Day celebration calendar released
Boston.com: Get your muskets ready - Patriot's Day celebration calendar released
The National Park Service has released a calendar of this year's activities to commemorate the events of 1775 at Minute Man National Historical Park.
Each year in mid-April, thousands flock to historic Lexington and Concord and Minute Man National Historical Park to celebrate Patriot's Day, a special Massachusetts State holiday commemorating the opening battle of the American Revolutionary War, April 19, 1775. The parades, programs, re-enactments and ceremonies span from April 9 to April 23, according to a release from the park.
According to Minute Man Superintendent Nancy Nelson, the Battle Road event on Saturday, April 16, is the biggest day of commemorations within Minute Man National Historical Park.
"Hundreds of colonial militia will square off against British Redcoats. The celebration of Patriot’ s Day is all about remembering the brave actions of the embattled farmers’ who risked their lives and livelihoods,” Nelson said.
In addition to the military activities, volunteer reenactors at the park’ s historic Hartwell Tavern will represent daily life in 1775. Domestic arts demonstrations will illustrate how civilian men and women contributed to the cause of American Liberty. Demonstrations will include food preparation, house cleaning, needlework, laundry, children’ s games, and a Revolutionary spinning bee.
The celebrations culminate with “ Junior Ranger Day” and “ Battle Road Heroes” on Saturday, April 23. Events are free of charge, except where noted.
Saturday, April 9
Meriam's Corner Ceremony
At Meriam's Corner, Lexington Road, Concord
1:00 p.m.
The Town of Concord, joined by area minute companies, fife and drum units, and the Concord Independent Battery, pay remembrance to the fight at Meriam's Corner that marked the beginning of the six-hour running battle back to Boston . The historic Meriam House will be open 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Paul Revere Capture Ceremony
At Paul Revere Capture Site, Rt. 2A, Lincoln
3:00 p.m.
The Lincoln Minute Men and the Town of Lincoln, joined by other reenactment and fife and drum units, observe the historic capture of Paul Revere.
Thursday, April 14
Naturalization Ceremony
At the North Bridge, Concord
12:00 noon
In this compelling place, where citizens stood together and risked their lives to defend their rights, Minute Man National Historical Park will host a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Naturalization Ceremony for 50 participants. The ideals of liberty and self- determination that the minute men fought for are an essential part of the American identity.
Friday, April 15
The Paul Revere Capture Reenactment
At the Bloody Angle, Battle Road Trail, Lincoln MA.
7:30 p.m.
In the pre-dawn darkness of April 19, 1775, Paul Revere was captured by a mounted patrol of British officers, and the famous "midnight ride" came to an abrupt end. Join park staff and volunteer reenactors (and their horses) as we recreate this dramatic preamble to the opening battle of the American Revolution. We recommend you bring a flashlight for the walk from the parking area to the event site. Parking for this event is at the Lincoln North Parking Area, 55 Old Bedford Road, Lincoln MA.
Saturday, April 16
Battle Road
Minute Man National Historical Park
8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Minute Man National Historical Park, in partnership with hundreds of Colonial and British
reenactors, commemorates the opening battle of the American Revolution with a day full of exciting living history activities. Tour Hartwell Tavern, Lincoln, 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., an
historic home and tavern that stood witness to the events of April, 19, 1775, and enjoy a variety of 18th century activities including drill and musket demonstrations, 18th century artillery demonstrations, domestic arts, crafts and games.
The day's events also feature two key military engagements:
Commemoration of the North Bridge Fight
At the North Bridge, Concord
8:30 a.m.
The peace of the Concord countryside will once more be shattered by the sounds of marching men and musketry as British and Colonial Reenactors, Park Rangers and Volunteers bring the fateful morning of April 19, 1775 to life in this stirring commemoration of "the shot heard round the world." Parking for North Bridge events is on Monument Street; Park Rangers will direct you.
Bloody Angle Tactical Demonstration
At Hartwell Tavern (Route 2A, Lincoln)
11:00 a.m.
The Bloody Angle Tactical Demonstration features over 300 British and Colonial Reenactors encamped at the Hartwell Tavern and Captain William Smith House. They will stage a running battle demonstration along a half-mile of the original Battle Road. Hartwell Tavern is located on Route 2A in Lincoln. Park Rangers will direct you to parking.
M onday, April 18
Battle Reenactment - Lexington Green
5:00 a.m. (approximately)
(Not within Minute Man National Historical Park) The Town of Lexington celebrates the
start of the American Revolution with a battle reenactment of the early-morning engagement between the town's militia and the British regulars. The Lexington Parade will be held at 2:00. For more information, contact the Lexington Chamber of Commerce: (781) 862 – 1450, info@lexingtonchamber.org
British Mourn Arms Ceremony and Concord Patriot's Day Parade
At the North Bridge, Concord
At 8:30 a.m., British Redcoats will conduct a very moving "mourn arms" ceremony in honor of their war dead. The Concord Patriot's Day Parade begins at 9:00 in Concord Center and arrives at the North Bridge around 9:30, stopping for ceremonies with music and musket and cannon salutes, before returning through town. NOTE: All of the roads in the center of town are closed to vehicles beginning at 8:30 a.m.
Tuesday, April 19
Dawn Salute
At the North Bridge, Concord
6:00 a.m.
The Concord Minute Men and The Concord Independent Battery observe the opening battle of the American Revolutionary War in a 21 gun musket and cannon salute to America's past.
Arrival of the Sudbury Militia
At the North Bridge, Concord
10:30 a.m.
The Sudbury Companies of Militia and Minute Men arrive at the North Bridge after making their annual march from the town of Sudbury. They will fire a musket salute from North Bridge.
Saturday, April 23
Junior Ranger Day
At the Minute Man and North Bridge Visitor Centers and Hartwell Tavern
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Have fun exploring Minute Man National Historical Park with your Junior Ranger Day Booklet to guide you. Take part in a variety of special programs including story time, "Hat's Off!" in our Reader's Theater, and militia drill to master real battle formations from 1775 with wooden muskets. When you are finished, show your work to a Ranger to earn your new badge.
Battle Road Heroes
At Hartwell Tavern (Route 2A, Lincoln)
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
You've watched the battle reenactments and the parades. Now you are invited to walk down a candle-lit path to the past. Listen to the personal stories of people who lived along the Battle Road on April 19, 1775. Join Captain William Smith, the Lincoln Minute Men, the Hartwells, drovers, musicians, and His Majesty's soldiers for this special evening of theater and history. Admission for "Battle Road Heroes" is $5.00 per person, $10.00 per family. Proceeds benefit the Friends of Minute Man National Park. Children wearing their Minute Man NHP Junior Ranger badge are welcome to attend the program for free. Recommended for ages 8 and up.
For more information about any of these events, please visit our web site www.nps.gov/
mima or call 978-369-6993.
The National Park Service has released a calendar of this year's activities to commemorate the events of 1775 at Minute Man National Historical Park.
Each year in mid-April, thousands flock to historic Lexington and Concord and Minute Man National Historical Park to celebrate Patriot's Day, a special Massachusetts State holiday commemorating the opening battle of the American Revolutionary War, April 19, 1775. The parades, programs, re-enactments and ceremonies span from April 9 to April 23, according to a release from the park.
According to Minute Man Superintendent Nancy Nelson, the Battle Road event on Saturday, April 16, is the biggest day of commemorations within Minute Man National Historical Park.
"Hundreds of colonial militia will square off against British Redcoats. The celebration of Patriot’ s Day is all about remembering the brave actions of the embattled farmers’ who risked their lives and livelihoods,” Nelson said.
In addition to the military activities, volunteer reenactors at the park’ s historic Hartwell Tavern will represent daily life in 1775. Domestic arts demonstrations will illustrate how civilian men and women contributed to the cause of American Liberty. Demonstrations will include food preparation, house cleaning, needlework, laundry, children’ s games, and a Revolutionary spinning bee.
The celebrations culminate with “ Junior Ranger Day” and “ Battle Road Heroes” on Saturday, April 23. Events are free of charge, except where noted.
Saturday, April 9
Meriam's Corner Ceremony
At Meriam's Corner, Lexington Road, Concord
1:00 p.m.
The Town of Concord, joined by area minute companies, fife and drum units, and the Concord Independent Battery, pay remembrance to the fight at Meriam's Corner that marked the beginning of the six-hour running battle back to Boston . The historic Meriam House will be open 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Paul Revere Capture Ceremony
At Paul Revere Capture Site, Rt. 2A, Lincoln
3:00 p.m.
The Lincoln Minute Men and the Town of Lincoln, joined by other reenactment and fife and drum units, observe the historic capture of Paul Revere.
Thursday, April 14
Naturalization Ceremony
At the North Bridge, Concord
12:00 noon
In this compelling place, where citizens stood together and risked their lives to defend their rights, Minute Man National Historical Park will host a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Naturalization Ceremony for 50 participants. The ideals of liberty and self- determination that the minute men fought for are an essential part of the American identity.
Friday, April 15
The Paul Revere Capture Reenactment
At the Bloody Angle, Battle Road Trail, Lincoln MA.
7:30 p.m.
In the pre-dawn darkness of April 19, 1775, Paul Revere was captured by a mounted patrol of British officers, and the famous "midnight ride" came to an abrupt end. Join park staff and volunteer reenactors (and their horses) as we recreate this dramatic preamble to the opening battle of the American Revolution. We recommend you bring a flashlight for the walk from the parking area to the event site. Parking for this event is at the Lincoln North Parking Area, 55 Old Bedford Road, Lincoln MA.
Saturday, April 16
Battle Road
Minute Man National Historical Park
8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Minute Man National Historical Park, in partnership with hundreds of Colonial and British
reenactors, commemorates the opening battle of the American Revolution with a day full of exciting living history activities. Tour Hartwell Tavern, Lincoln, 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., an
historic home and tavern that stood witness to the events of April, 19, 1775, and enjoy a variety of 18th century activities including drill and musket demonstrations, 18th century artillery demonstrations, domestic arts, crafts and games.
The day's events also feature two key military engagements:
Commemoration of the North Bridge Fight
At the North Bridge, Concord
8:30 a.m.
The peace of the Concord countryside will once more be shattered by the sounds of marching men and musketry as British and Colonial Reenactors, Park Rangers and Volunteers bring the fateful morning of April 19, 1775 to life in this stirring commemoration of "the shot heard round the world." Parking for North Bridge events is on Monument Street; Park Rangers will direct you.
Bloody Angle Tactical Demonstration
At Hartwell Tavern (Route 2A, Lincoln)
11:00 a.m.
The Bloody Angle Tactical Demonstration features over 300 British and Colonial Reenactors encamped at the Hartwell Tavern and Captain William Smith House. They will stage a running battle demonstration along a half-mile of the original Battle Road. Hartwell Tavern is located on Route 2A in Lincoln. Park Rangers will direct you to parking.
M onday, April 18
Battle Reenactment - Lexington Green
5:00 a.m. (approximately)
(Not within Minute Man National Historical Park) The Town of Lexington celebrates the
start of the American Revolution with a battle reenactment of the early-morning engagement between the town's militia and the British regulars. The Lexington Parade will be held at 2:00. For more information, contact the Lexington Chamber of Commerce: (781) 862 – 1450, info@lexingtonchamber.org
British Mourn Arms Ceremony and Concord Patriot's Day Parade
At the North Bridge, Concord
At 8:30 a.m., British Redcoats will conduct a very moving "mourn arms" ceremony in honor of their war dead. The Concord Patriot's Day Parade begins at 9:00 in Concord Center and arrives at the North Bridge around 9:30, stopping for ceremonies with music and musket and cannon salutes, before returning through town. NOTE: All of the roads in the center of town are closed to vehicles beginning at 8:30 a.m.
Tuesday, April 19
Dawn Salute
At the North Bridge, Concord
6:00 a.m.
The Concord Minute Men and The Concord Independent Battery observe the opening battle of the American Revolutionary War in a 21 gun musket and cannon salute to America's past.
Arrival of the Sudbury Militia
At the North Bridge, Concord
10:30 a.m.
The Sudbury Companies of Militia and Minute Men arrive at the North Bridge after making their annual march from the town of Sudbury. They will fire a musket salute from North Bridge.
Saturday, April 23
Junior Ranger Day
At the Minute Man and North Bridge Visitor Centers and Hartwell Tavern
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Have fun exploring Minute Man National Historical Park with your Junior Ranger Day Booklet to guide you. Take part in a variety of special programs including story time, "Hat's Off!" in our Reader's Theater, and militia drill to master real battle formations from 1775 with wooden muskets. When you are finished, show your work to a Ranger to earn your new badge.
Battle Road Heroes
At Hartwell Tavern (Route 2A, Lincoln)
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
You've watched the battle reenactments and the parades. Now you are invited to walk down a candle-lit path to the past. Listen to the personal stories of people who lived along the Battle Road on April 19, 1775. Join Captain William Smith, the Lincoln Minute Men, the Hartwells, drovers, musicians, and His Majesty's soldiers for this special evening of theater and history. Admission for "Battle Road Heroes" is $5.00 per person, $10.00 per family. Proceeds benefit the Friends of Minute Man National Park. Children wearing their Minute Man NHP Junior Ranger badge are welcome to attend the program for free. Recommended for ages 8 and up.
For more information about any of these events, please visit our web site www.nps.gov/
mima or call 978-369-6993.
Olentangy students bring American Revolution to life
Delaware News: Olentangy students bring American Revolution to life
Clad in a white button-down shirt, black vest and colonial tri-corner hat, Arrowhead Elementary School fourth-grader Maddie Garner staked out a spot in the school library last week to deliver a warning to passersby.
"The British are coming!" Maddie told visiting guests and parents.
The 9-year-old was referring to the British army, of course, which was marching onward from Boston to Lexington to stage an attack and arrest American revolutionaries.
Maddie herself had assumed the role of Paul Revere, the Revolutionary War hero whose famed "midnight ride" warned colonists of danger in the nick of time.
In all, 15 students brought history to life Thursday, March 17 with their interactive Revolutionary War Museum, dressing in costume and taking on the role of American icons such as Revere, John Adams and Deborah Sampson.
The project was part of the SOAR program for gifted students.
Each student assumed the role of one historical figure and prepared a presentation on an important Revolutionary War event, such as the Boston Tea Party, the Battle of Trenton or the midnight ride.
As parents and visitors approached, the students launched into character to tell visitors what role they played in the struggle for American independence.
The interactive learning project breathes life into a mundane history lesson, said Arrowhead teacher Carol Strip Whitney.
"It offers them something more than just words on a page," she said. "It adds excitement to the learning and makes history come alive."
Fifth-grader Daniel Barstow, 11, spent weeks researching, writing and piecing together his costume. White baseball pants, long tube socks and a brown vest helped Daniel look the part as John Adams, the second president of the United States.
"I like that we get to dress up like the person and try to become him," Daniel said. "It's a lot of fun and it helps us explain who they were."
Fourth-grader Lucy Dunlop, 10, played the role of Deborah Sampson, who became one of the few women to secretly serve alongside men in the war effort by disguising herself as a man. Sampson's life shows that you should always follow your heart, Lucy said.
"She never let anyone crush her dreams," she said. "If someone says you can't do it, then you just don't listen to them."
In addition to their reports, students crafted small items, including miniature copies of the Declaration of Independence, to sell to parents for small donations. Proceeds went to Canine Companions for Independence, a Columbus group that trains dogs to assist disabled individuals.
The student-driven project encouraged them to take charge of their learning, said fourth-grade teacher Alison Spitzer.
"There's a purpose behind their work, because they got to research a topic of their choosing," she said. "It gives them a good outlook on what they'll face when they get to middle school and high school."
Hands-on learning opportunities such as this one provide the challenge and stimulation that Olentangy's gifted students need, Whitney said.
"They remember these opportunities where they actually get to use the information they researched," she said. "In this case, writing a report isn't the issue. The issue is the internalization of the learning process: gathering information, answering questions and always asking, 'What else can I learn?'"
Clad in a white button-down shirt, black vest and colonial tri-corner hat, Arrowhead Elementary School fourth-grader Maddie Garner staked out a spot in the school library last week to deliver a warning to passersby.
"The British are coming!" Maddie told visiting guests and parents.
The 9-year-old was referring to the British army, of course, which was marching onward from Boston to Lexington to stage an attack and arrest American revolutionaries.
Maddie herself had assumed the role of Paul Revere, the Revolutionary War hero whose famed "midnight ride" warned colonists of danger in the nick of time.
In all, 15 students brought history to life Thursday, March 17 with their interactive Revolutionary War Museum, dressing in costume and taking on the role of American icons such as Revere, John Adams and Deborah Sampson.
The project was part of the SOAR program for gifted students.
Each student assumed the role of one historical figure and prepared a presentation on an important Revolutionary War event, such as the Boston Tea Party, the Battle of Trenton or the midnight ride.
As parents and visitors approached, the students launched into character to tell visitors what role they played in the struggle for American independence.
The interactive learning project breathes life into a mundane history lesson, said Arrowhead teacher Carol Strip Whitney.
"It offers them something more than just words on a page," she said. "It adds excitement to the learning and makes history come alive."
Fifth-grader Daniel Barstow, 11, spent weeks researching, writing and piecing together his costume. White baseball pants, long tube socks and a brown vest helped Daniel look the part as John Adams, the second president of the United States.
"I like that we get to dress up like the person and try to become him," Daniel said. "It's a lot of fun and it helps us explain who they were."
Fourth-grader Lucy Dunlop, 10, played the role of Deborah Sampson, who became one of the few women to secretly serve alongside men in the war effort by disguising herself as a man. Sampson's life shows that you should always follow your heart, Lucy said.
"She never let anyone crush her dreams," she said. "If someone says you can't do it, then you just don't listen to them."
In addition to their reports, students crafted small items, including miniature copies of the Declaration of Independence, to sell to parents for small donations. Proceeds went to Canine Companions for Independence, a Columbus group that trains dogs to assist disabled individuals.
The student-driven project encouraged them to take charge of their learning, said fourth-grade teacher Alison Spitzer.
"There's a purpose behind their work, because they got to research a topic of their choosing," she said. "It gives them a good outlook on what they'll face when they get to middle school and high school."
Hands-on learning opportunities such as this one provide the challenge and stimulation that Olentangy's gifted students need, Whitney said.
"They remember these opportunities where they actually get to use the information they researched," she said. "In this case, writing a report isn't the issue. The issue is the internalization of the learning process: gathering information, answering questions and always asking, 'What else can I learn?'"
Daughters of the American Revolution holding state conference in Pineville
TheTownTalk.com: Daughters of the American Revolution holding state conference in Pineville
PINEVILLE -- Members of the Daughters of the American Revolution are proud of their heritage, but they also actively support members of America's military.
"This organization is big on helping soldiers. We send supplies to troops who serve our country," Marilyn Spencer said Friday as the Louisiana Society Daughters of the American Revolution began its two-day annual state conference at the Country Inn and Suites in Pineville.
Spencer, a Simmesport native, is the LSDAR national defense chairman of District IV Regents Council and Spirit of '76 Chapter regent.
On Friday, guest speakers at the conference were Merry Ann Thompson Wright, National Society DAR president general; and Air Force Col. Steve Dubriske of Barksdale Air Force Base near Bossier City.
The conference continues today and includes an awards presentation.
DAR, founded in 1890 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a nonprofit, nonpolitical volunteer women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history and securing America's future through better education for children.
"In order to be a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, an individual must have an ancestor that has helped or served in the American Revolutionary War. The awards we will give will be for DAR service," Spencer said.
Spencer said she became interested in DAR after tracing her family genealogy.
"Avoyelles Parish was settled by 33 patriots, and I say 99 percent are eligible because they married into one another's families for 200 years," Spencer said.
DAR Loyalty Chapter regent Jayne Rhodes said her chapter meets at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Alexandria on the second Monday of every month.
"We are a volunteer organization that loves to help soldiers and veterans," Rhodes said. "We have 119 members. We send things like Christmas cards, hard candy and funny movies to our troops. We get members in our organization through word-of-mouth and always look for new people."
Rachel Grace of the Baton Rouge chapter said she became a member of the organization because of her daughter.
"My daughter is in the Children of the American Revolution. I have 12 proven ancestors," Grace said. "It was fun to trace my family history."
Dubriske, a lawyer, talked about how the military justice system evolved since the Revolutionary War.
"A volunteer organization like this that provides support to soldiers is something that is greatly appreciated," Dubriske said of the DAR. "I wasn't aware of how much community service they did and just thought they were a historical society."
Wright, who lives in North Carolina, said a national DAR president general "visits every state in the Union during her three years," and she is attending her seventh state conference since the beginning of February.
"I'm here to encourage members to meet our mission towards education and patriotism," Wright said. "Preserving our past, enhancing the present and investing in the future is important for the DAR."
PINEVILLE -- Members of the Daughters of the American Revolution are proud of their heritage, but they also actively support members of America's military.
"This organization is big on helping soldiers. We send supplies to troops who serve our country," Marilyn Spencer said Friday as the Louisiana Society Daughters of the American Revolution began its two-day annual state conference at the Country Inn and Suites in Pineville.
Spencer, a Simmesport native, is the LSDAR national defense chairman of District IV Regents Council and Spirit of '76 Chapter regent.
On Friday, guest speakers at the conference were Merry Ann Thompson Wright, National Society DAR president general; and Air Force Col. Steve Dubriske of Barksdale Air Force Base near Bossier City.
The conference continues today and includes an awards presentation.
DAR, founded in 1890 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a nonprofit, nonpolitical volunteer women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history and securing America's future through better education for children.
"In order to be a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, an individual must have an ancestor that has helped or served in the American Revolutionary War. The awards we will give will be for DAR service," Spencer said.
Spencer said she became interested in DAR after tracing her family genealogy.
"Avoyelles Parish was settled by 33 patriots, and I say 99 percent are eligible because they married into one another's families for 200 years," Spencer said.
DAR Loyalty Chapter regent Jayne Rhodes said her chapter meets at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Alexandria on the second Monday of every month.
"We are a volunteer organization that loves to help soldiers and veterans," Rhodes said. "We have 119 members. We send things like Christmas cards, hard candy and funny movies to our troops. We get members in our organization through word-of-mouth and always look for new people."
Rachel Grace of the Baton Rouge chapter said she became a member of the organization because of her daughter.
"My daughter is in the Children of the American Revolution. I have 12 proven ancestors," Grace said. "It was fun to trace my family history."
Dubriske, a lawyer, talked about how the military justice system evolved since the Revolutionary War.
"A volunteer organization like this that provides support to soldiers is something that is greatly appreciated," Dubriske said of the DAR. "I wasn't aware of how much community service they did and just thought they were a historical society."
Wright, who lives in North Carolina, said a national DAR president general "visits every state in the Union during her three years," and she is attending her seventh state conference since the beginning of February.
"I'm here to encourage members to meet our mission towards education and patriotism," Wright said. "Preserving our past, enhancing the present and investing in the future is important for the DAR."
Monday, March 21, 2011
The Stamp Act
Appeal Democrat, Column, Bruce Kauffman: The Stamp Act
Of all of the so-called "revenue acts" passed by the British Parliament in the years leading up to American independence, the most famous — the one that you, dear reader, still remember from high school history — is the Stamp Act. And for one very good reason. This act, which Parliament passed this week (March 22) in 1765, was the match that lit the long fuse to the American Revolution.
The question is why? Why was the Stamp Act such an anathema to the American colonists when similar acts designed to raise revenue from them (the Molasses Act, the Sugar Act) were considered less provocative?
The short answer is the "T" word. Unlike previous revenue acts, the Stamp Act was the first actual tax. The others were duties — that is, monies levied on imports and exports — and as such they were considered within Parliament's jurisdiction. Up until the revolution itself, American colonists conceded to Parliament the power to regulate what they called "external" matters, meaning trade.
But taxes were "internal." Taxes were levied on a person's property, and to the colonists nothing was more sacrosanct than their "property rights." Property could not be taxed unless "consent" was given, and in Colonial America the only ones empowered to give consent were the people themselves, through local representatives that they elected to local assemblies. The colonists argued that since they had no representatives in Parliament, Parliament could not levy taxes on them without breaking one of the first principles of British law and custom — "No taxation without representation."
But while the colonists clung to that principle, Parliament clung to one of its own: "The Parliament of Great Britain is vested with the Supreme Authority of the Nation." In other words, if the colonists were allowed to defy Parliament on taxation, what would prevent them from defying Parliament on anything else?
Which brings us to the fundamental answer as to why the Stamp Act was such a crucial turning point on the road to the American Revolution. The Stamp Act clarified what was the key principle for each side. For the colonists it was, "No Taxation Without Our Consent." For Parliament it was, "No Compromise of Our Supreme Authority." Because neither side could bend on these core principles, a war to decide who would prevail was inevitable.
There is an old saying, "It's not the money, it's the principle," which is usually a reversal of the truth. But regarding the Stamp Act it was true. The act helped cost Britain its American empire, which badly damaged its profitable colonial trade. By contrast, the amount of tax revenue collected as a result of the Stamp Act didn't even equal the expense of administering it.
Of all of the so-called "revenue acts" passed by the British Parliament in the years leading up to American independence, the most famous — the one that you, dear reader, still remember from high school history — is the Stamp Act. And for one very good reason. This act, which Parliament passed this week (March 22) in 1765, was the match that lit the long fuse to the American Revolution.
The question is why? Why was the Stamp Act such an anathema to the American colonists when similar acts designed to raise revenue from them (the Molasses Act, the Sugar Act) were considered less provocative?
The short answer is the "T" word. Unlike previous revenue acts, the Stamp Act was the first actual tax. The others were duties — that is, monies levied on imports and exports — and as such they were considered within Parliament's jurisdiction. Up until the revolution itself, American colonists conceded to Parliament the power to regulate what they called "external" matters, meaning trade.
But taxes were "internal." Taxes were levied on a person's property, and to the colonists nothing was more sacrosanct than their "property rights." Property could not be taxed unless "consent" was given, and in Colonial America the only ones empowered to give consent were the people themselves, through local representatives that they elected to local assemblies. The colonists argued that since they had no representatives in Parliament, Parliament could not levy taxes on them without breaking one of the first principles of British law and custom — "No taxation without representation."
But while the colonists clung to that principle, Parliament clung to one of its own: "The Parliament of Great Britain is vested with the Supreme Authority of the Nation." In other words, if the colonists were allowed to defy Parliament on taxation, what would prevent them from defying Parliament on anything else?
Which brings us to the fundamental answer as to why the Stamp Act was such a crucial turning point on the road to the American Revolution. The Stamp Act clarified what was the key principle for each side. For the colonists it was, "No Taxation Without Our Consent." For Parliament it was, "No Compromise of Our Supreme Authority." Because neither side could bend on these core principles, a war to decide who would prevail was inevitable.
There is an old saying, "It's not the money, it's the principle," which is usually a reversal of the truth. But regarding the Stamp Act it was true. The act helped cost Britain its American empire, which badly damaged its profitable colonial trade. By contrast, the amount of tax revenue collected as a result of the Stamp Act didn't even equal the expense of administering it.
Daughters of the American Revolution Debutante Ball
The Advertiser.com (Lafayette, Louisiana): Daughters of the American Revolution Debutante Ball
The Galvez Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution and Attakapas Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution, presented debutantes at this year's ball.
The theme of the celebration was "The 275th Birthday of Paul Revere" and the event was staged in the Petroleum Club of Lafayette.
Debutante participants were:
Christine Marshall Andrus, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark C. Andrus. Christine attends Episcopal School of Acadiana. She was sponsored by her mother, Mrs. Mark C. Andrus, of the Galvez Chapter, DAR and her uncle, Dwight Andrus Junior, Attakapas Chapter SAR. Christine's patriot is Travis McClendon of Georgia and Louis Coulonde Villiers of Louisiana.
Ryan-Elizabeth Gambel, daughter of Mrs. Christian J. Gambel and the late Mr. Gambel. The debutante is a student at Ascension Episcopal School. She is sponsored by her mother, Karen Gambel, of the Galvez Chapter DAR. Ryan-Elizabeth's ancestor is Sgt. Thomas Abell of Bennington, Vt.
Diane McDonald Gremillion, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. Mark Gremillion of Lafayette. She is a student at Choate Rosemary Hall, Wallingford, Conn. Diane is sponsored by her mother and grandmother, Mrs. Richard Saloom, of the Galvez Chapter, DAR. The debutante's patriots are Selah Deming and John Curtiss of Connecticut, Charles Champion of Virginia and Edmond Jones of North Carolina.
Celise Suzette Guidry, daughter of Zoe Bernard Guidry of Carencro and Dr. John Charles Guidry of San Antonio. Celise attends Episcopal School of Acadiana and her ancestor of the American Revolution is Jonathon Russ of New Hampshire. The debutante is sponsored by her maternal grandmother, Mrs. Davy Bernard, Galvez Chapter DAR.
Aurore Kissling Hamilton, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Scott Hamilton, attends Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau. Aurore was sponsored by her mother, Elizabeth Hamilton, Galvez Chapter DAR. The debutante's revolutionary ancestor is John Compton Sr. of Maryland.
Carolyn Louise Higdon, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John R. Higdon attends Hanson Memorial High School in Franklin. Carolyn was sponsored by her grandmother, Mrs. Carolyn Viator Judice, Attakapas Chapter, DAR. The debutante's ancestor is John Conner of South Carolina.
Sarah Monroe Lauderdale, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harriss Warren Lauderdale of Houston, Texas, attends Houston School for the Visual and Performing Arts. Sarah was sponsored by her grandmother, Patricia Snyder, President of the Galvez Chapter, DAR. Miss Lauderdale has recently been accepted as a member of the American Ballet Theatre. The debutante's revolutionary ancestor is Colonel John Shepard of New Hampshire.
Amy Elizabeth Penac is the daughter of Dr. Andre C. Pinac III, SAR of Opelousas, and Deborah B. Pinac of Sunset. Miss Pinac attends Opelousas Catholic High School. Amy's sponsor is her paternal grandmother, Mrs. Andre L. Pinac Jr. of Crowley, Acadia Chapter DAR. The debutante's revolutionary ancestor is Patriot John Moss Sr. of Virginia.
Eleanor Carlyle Kolb is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick T. Kolb, residents of Bellaire, Texas. Eleanor attends Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart in Houston. The debutante is sponsored by her mother, Mrs. Helen Bailey Kolb and Mrs. Helen Hamilton Bailey, her grandmother, both of Galvez Chapter DAR. Eleanor's American revolutionary ancestor is patriot Pierre Doucet of Louisiana.
Other noteworthy individuals who participated in the ball were Patricia Snyder, president of the Galvez Chapter DAR, the Rev. Kenneth J. Domingue, president of the LSSAR; Dudley Lastrapes, master of ceremonies; Mrs. Archibaled Hill IV, chairman; Stan Hardee Jr., ball captain; Mrs. Karl Mestayer, choreographer; Mrs. Frederick de la Houssaye, marshal; Dr. B. Cason de la Houssaye, speaker; James Jennings Jr., secretary; Malcolm J. Domingue, National Anthem; and Guy Ellison Jr., Pledge of Allegiance.
Children taking part in the festivity included Will Little, Amelia Summerhays, Scott Bernard, Cecile, Cidney and Clay Theard.
Mrs. Patricia Snyder, regent of the Galvez Chapter, LSDAR and the Rev. Domingue, president of the Attakapas Chapter LSSAR, welcomed the attendees. Leonard H. Rohbough, La. state president SAR and Mrs. Bonnie P. Cook, La. state regent LSDAR, performed the traditional cake cutting ceremony.
Throngs of attendees enjoyed the celebration.
The Galvez Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution and Attakapas Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution, presented debutantes at this year's ball.
The theme of the celebration was "The 275th Birthday of Paul Revere" and the event was staged in the Petroleum Club of Lafayette.
Debutante participants were:
Christine Marshall Andrus, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark C. Andrus. Christine attends Episcopal School of Acadiana. She was sponsored by her mother, Mrs. Mark C. Andrus, of the Galvez Chapter, DAR and her uncle, Dwight Andrus Junior, Attakapas Chapter SAR. Christine's patriot is Travis McClendon of Georgia and Louis Coulonde Villiers of Louisiana.
Ryan-Elizabeth Gambel, daughter of Mrs. Christian J. Gambel and the late Mr. Gambel. The debutante is a student at Ascension Episcopal School. She is sponsored by her mother, Karen Gambel, of the Galvez Chapter DAR. Ryan-Elizabeth's ancestor is Sgt. Thomas Abell of Bennington, Vt.
Diane McDonald Gremillion, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. Mark Gremillion of Lafayette. She is a student at Choate Rosemary Hall, Wallingford, Conn. Diane is sponsored by her mother and grandmother, Mrs. Richard Saloom, of the Galvez Chapter, DAR. The debutante's patriots are Selah Deming and John Curtiss of Connecticut, Charles Champion of Virginia and Edmond Jones of North Carolina.
Celise Suzette Guidry, daughter of Zoe Bernard Guidry of Carencro and Dr. John Charles Guidry of San Antonio. Celise attends Episcopal School of Acadiana and her ancestor of the American Revolution is Jonathon Russ of New Hampshire. The debutante is sponsored by her maternal grandmother, Mrs. Davy Bernard, Galvez Chapter DAR.
Aurore Kissling Hamilton, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Scott Hamilton, attends Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau. Aurore was sponsored by her mother, Elizabeth Hamilton, Galvez Chapter DAR. The debutante's revolutionary ancestor is John Compton Sr. of Maryland.
Carolyn Louise Higdon, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John R. Higdon attends Hanson Memorial High School in Franklin. Carolyn was sponsored by her grandmother, Mrs. Carolyn Viator Judice, Attakapas Chapter, DAR. The debutante's ancestor is John Conner of South Carolina.
Sarah Monroe Lauderdale, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harriss Warren Lauderdale of Houston, Texas, attends Houston School for the Visual and Performing Arts. Sarah was sponsored by her grandmother, Patricia Snyder, President of the Galvez Chapter, DAR. Miss Lauderdale has recently been accepted as a member of the American Ballet Theatre. The debutante's revolutionary ancestor is Colonel John Shepard of New Hampshire.
Amy Elizabeth Penac is the daughter of Dr. Andre C. Pinac III, SAR of Opelousas, and Deborah B. Pinac of Sunset. Miss Pinac attends Opelousas Catholic High School. Amy's sponsor is her paternal grandmother, Mrs. Andre L. Pinac Jr. of Crowley, Acadia Chapter DAR. The debutante's revolutionary ancestor is Patriot John Moss Sr. of Virginia.
Eleanor Carlyle Kolb is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick T. Kolb, residents of Bellaire, Texas. Eleanor attends Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart in Houston. The debutante is sponsored by her mother, Mrs. Helen Bailey Kolb and Mrs. Helen Hamilton Bailey, her grandmother, both of Galvez Chapter DAR. Eleanor's American revolutionary ancestor is patriot Pierre Doucet of Louisiana.
Other noteworthy individuals who participated in the ball were Patricia Snyder, president of the Galvez Chapter DAR, the Rev. Kenneth J. Domingue, president of the LSSAR; Dudley Lastrapes, master of ceremonies; Mrs. Archibaled Hill IV, chairman; Stan Hardee Jr., ball captain; Mrs. Karl Mestayer, choreographer; Mrs. Frederick de la Houssaye, marshal; Dr. B. Cason de la Houssaye, speaker; James Jennings Jr., secretary; Malcolm J. Domingue, National Anthem; and Guy Ellison Jr., Pledge of Allegiance.
Children taking part in the festivity included Will Little, Amelia Summerhays, Scott Bernard, Cecile, Cidney and Clay Theard.
Mrs. Patricia Snyder, regent of the Galvez Chapter, LSDAR and the Rev. Domingue, president of the Attakapas Chapter LSSAR, welcomed the attendees. Leonard H. Rohbough, La. state president SAR and Mrs. Bonnie P. Cook, La. state regent LSDAR, performed the traditional cake cutting ceremony.
Throngs of attendees enjoyed the celebration.
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