The Declaration of Independence is America’s founding document and the foundational upon which the values and morals of this nation were based. In the wake of last week’s Independence Day celebrations, many of us have had this vital piece of history on our minds. When we ponder these major moments in history, one can’t help but wonder what it must have been like to be present for these momentous occasions. While it’s not possible for us to time travel to the 18th century, we can begin to gain an understanding of what it may have been like by immersing ourselves in the sights, sounds, and histories of those who came before us.

As residents of Trenton, we have the unique privilege of traversing the very same paths of witnesses of the Revolutionary War. All over our small but mighty town, one can find relics and reminders that the Revolution took place in our very streets. From the start of our nation, Trenton played a prominent role in shaping this fledgling country. So much so, in fact, that it was here in Trenton that the Declaration of Independence was read for only the second time in the nation’s history. Not only a fun factoid, this reality speaks to the place of prominence and privilege that our community held amidst one of our nation’s most pivotal moments. Today, let’s take a moment to explore and appreciate the debut of the Declaration in the Capital City.

The Declaration of Independence was signed into effect by the Continental Congress on July 4th, 1776 in Philadelphia’s Independence Hall. A major milestone in the cultivation of our newly formed creation, word understandably spread quickly regarding this life-altering proclamation. In the modern era, news of this magnitude would immediately hit the airwaves, but in the 18th century, the spread of information was a far slower process. After the Declaration was read in Philadelphia, it was rapidly brought to Trenton, where on July 8th, 1776, our city was host to first reading of this founding document outside of the city in which it was conceived. The reading of the Declaration of Independence took place in front of what was then the Hunterdon County Courthouse on Warren Street. While this region is no longer considered Hunterdon County, the reading was held at a time when Mercer County did not yet exist.

To celebrate this epic moment in Trenton’s history, each year, a coalition of community members and advocates come together to reenact this important day. If you did not have a chance to make it to this year’s reading, not to worry, as this beloved tradition remains a key component of the region’s annual Independence Day activities. The next time you find yourself wandering down Warren Street, take a look around, as you are following in the footsteps of giants. As important today as it was in years past, may we never forget the gift and privilege it is to live in a city whose impact has been felt since the dawn of our nation.

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