"From the day of the Declaration, the people of the North American union, and of its constituent states, were associated bodies of civilized men and Christians, in a state of nature, but not of anarchy. They were bound by the laws of God, which they all, and by the laws of the Gospel, which they nearly all acknowledged as the rules of their conduct. They were bound by the principles which they themselves had proclaimed in the declaration. They were bound by all those tender and endearing sympathies, the absence of which, in the British government and nation, towards them, was the primary cause of the distressing conflict in which they had been precipitated by the headlong rashness and unfeeling insolence of their oppressors. They were bound by all the beneficent laws and institutions, which their forefathers had brought with them from their mother country, not as servitudes but as rights. They were bound by habits of hardy industry, by frugal and hospitable manners, by the general sentiments of social equality, by pure and virtuous morals; and lastly they were bound by the grappling-hooks of common suffering under the scourge of oppression."

"The Declaration of Independence was a manifesto issued to the world, by the delegates of thirteen distinct, but united colonies of Great Britain, in the name and behalf of their people. It was a united declaration. Their union preceded their independence; nor was their independence, nor has it ever since, been separable from their union. Their language is, 'We the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress assembled, do, in the name and by the authority of the good PEOPLE of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare that these United Colonies, are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States.' It was the act of one people. The Colonies are not named; their number is not designated; nor in the original Declaration, does it appear from which of the Colonies any one of the fifty-six Delegates by whom it was signed, had been deputed. They announced their constituents to the world as one people, and unitedly declared the Colonies to which they respectively belonged, united, free and independent states. The Declaration of Independence, therefore, was a proclamation to the world, not merely that the United Colonies had ceased to be dependencies of Great Britain, but that their people had bound themselves, before God, to a primitive social compact of union, freedom and independence.

... "In the history of the world, this was the first example of a self-constituted nation proclaiming to the rest of mankind the principles upon which it was associated, and deriving those principles from the laws of nature. It has sometimes been objected to the paper, that it deals too much in abstractions. But this was its characteristic excellence; for upon those abstractions hinged the justice of the cause. Without them, our revolution would have been but successful rebellion. Right, truth, justice, are all abstractions. The Divinity that stirs within the soul of man is abstraction. The Creator of the universe is a spirit, and all spiritual nature is abstraction. Happy would it be, could we answer with equal confidence another objection, not to the Declaration, but to the consistency of the people by whom it was proclaimed! Thrice happy, could the appeal to the Supreme Judge of the World for rectitude of intention, and with firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence for support, have been accompanied with an appeal equally bold to our own social institutions to illustrate the self-evident truths which we declared!"

... "The Declaration of Independence was not a declaration of liberty newly acquired, nor was it a form of government. The people of the Colonies were already free, and their forms of government were various. They were all Colonies of a monarchy. The king of Great Britain was their common sove- reign. Their internal administrations presented great varieties of form. The proprietary governments were hereditary monarchies in miniature. New York and Virginia were feudal aristocracies. Massachusetts Bay was an approximation to the complex government of the parent state. Connecticut and Rhode Island were little remote from democracies. But as in the course of our recent war with Great Britain, her gallant naval warriors made the discovery that the frigates of the United States were line of battle ships in disguise, so the ministers of George III., when they brought their king and country into collision with these transatlantic dependencies, soon found to their astonishment, that the United American Colonies were republics in disguise. The spirit of the people, throughout the Union, was republican; and the absurdity of a foreign and a royal head to societies of men thus constituted, had remained unperceived, only because until then that head had been seldom brought into action.

"The Declaration of Independence announced the severance of the thirteen United Colonies from the rest of the British Empire, and the existence of their people from that day forth as an independent nation. The people of all the Colonies, speaking by their representatives, constituted themselves one moral person before the face of their fellow men.

"The Declaration of Independence was the crown with which the people of United America, rising in gigantic stature as one man, encircled their brows, and there it remains; there, so long as this globe shall be inhabited by human beings, may it remain, a crown of imperishable glory!

"The Declaration of Independence asserted the rights, and acknowledged the obligations of an independent nation. It recognised the laws of nations, as they were observed and practised among Christian communities."

"Why is it that, next to the birthday of the Savior of the world, your most joyous and most venerated festival returns on this day [the Fourth of July]? Is it not that, in the chain of human events, the birthday of the nation is indissolubly linked with the birthday of the Savior? That it forms a leading event in the progress of the Gospel dispensation? Is it not that the Declaration of Independence first organized the social compact on the foundation of the Redeemer's mission upon earth? That it laid the cornerstone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity??

The motive for the Declaration of Independence was on its face avowed to be "a decent respect for the opinions of mankind." Its purpose to declare the causes which impelled the people of the English colonies on the continent of North America, to separate themselves from the political community of the British-nation. They declare only the causes of their separation, but they announce at the same time their assumption of the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and of nature's God entitle them, among the powers of the earth.

Thus their first movement is to recognise and appeal to the laws of nature and to nature's God, for their right to assume the attributes of sovereign power as an independent nation.

The causes of their necessary separation, for they begin and end by declaring it necessary, alleged in the Declaration, are all founded on the same laws of nature and of nature's God -- and hence as preliminary to the enumeration of the causes of separation, they set forth as self-evident truths, the rights of individual man, by the laws of nature and of nature's God, to life, to liberty, to the pursuit of happiness. That all men are created equal. That to secure the rights of life, liberty and the pursuits of happiness, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. All this, is by the laws of nature and of nature's God, and of course presupposes the existence of a God, the moral ruler of the universe, and a rule of right and wrong, of just and unjust, binding upon man, preceding all institutions of human society and of government. It avers, also, that governments are instituted to secure these rights of nature and of nature's God, and that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of those ends, it is the right of THE PEOPLE to alter, or to abolish it, and to institute a new government -- to throw off a government degenerating into despotism, and to provide new guards for their future security. They proceed then to say that such was then the situation of the Colonies, and such the necessity which constrained them to alter their former systems of government.

Then follows the enumeration of the acts of tyranny by which the king, parliament, and people of Great Britain, had perverted the powers to the destruction of the ends of government, over the Colonies, and the consequent necessity constraining the Colonies to the separation.

In conclusion, the Representatives of the United States of America, in general Congress assembled, appealing to the Supreme judge of the world for the rectitude of their intentions, do, in the name and by the authority of the good people of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare that these United Colonies, are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British crown; and that all political connexion between them and the state of Great Britain, is, and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as free and independent States, they have full power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and to do all other acts and things which independent States may of right do. The appeal to the Supreme Judge of the world, and the rule of right and wrong as paramount events to the power of independent States, are here again repeated in the very act of constituting a new sovereign community."

... "Now the virtue which had been infused into the Constitution of the United States, and was to give to its vital existence the stability and duration to which it was destined, was no other than the concretion of those abstract principles which had been first proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence -- namely, the self-evident truths of the natural and unalienable rights of man, of the indefeasible constituent and dissolvent sovereignty of the people, always subordinate to a rule of right and wrong, and always responsible to the Supreme Ruler of the universe for the rightful exercise of that sovereign, constituent, and dissolvent power.

"This was the platform upon which the Constitution of the United States had been erected. Its VIRTUES, its republican character, consisted in its conformity to the principles proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence, and as its administration must necessarily be always pliable to the fluctuating varieties of public opinion; its stability and duration by a like overruling and irresistible necessity, was to depend upon the stability and duration in the hearts and minds of the people of that virtue, or in other words, of those principles, proclaimed in the Declaration of Independence, and embodied in the Constitution of the United States."

"The topic of civil disobedience and resistance to governing authorities had been a subject of serious theological inquiries for centuries before the Enlightenment. This was especially true during the Reformation, when the subject was directly addressed by theologians such as Frenchman John Calvin, German Martin Luther, Swiss Reformation leader Huldreich Zwingli, and numerous others."

... "The second Scriptural viewpoint overwhelmingly embraced by most Americans during the Revolutionary Era was that God would not honor an offensive war, but that He did permit civil self-defense (e.g., Nehemiah 4:13-14 & 20-21, Zechariah 9:8, 2 Samuel 10:12, etc.). The fact that the American Revolution was an act of self-defense and was not an offensive war undertaken by the Americans remained a point of frequent spiritual appeal for the Founding Fathers."

No nation can dwell with more just satisfaction upon its annals, than the American people. The emigrants, who settled the country, were illustrious men; distinguished for their piety, wisdom, energy, and fortitude. Not less illustrious were their descendants, who served as the guides and counsellors of the colonies, or who fought their battles during the revolutionary struggle. No one who admits the intervention of a special providence in the affairs of nations, can hesitate to believe, that the statesmen and heroes of the revolution were raised up by the God of heaven, for the important and definite purpose of achieving the independence of America of rescuing a people, whose ancestors had been eminently devoted to the duties of piety, from the thraldom under which they had groaned for years and of presenting to the monarchical governments in the eastern hemisphere, the example of a government, founded upon principles of civil and religious liberty.

From no point of view can the Declaration of American Independence, the causes which led to its adoption, and the events which marked its maintenance, be observed without exciting sentiments of profound veneration for the men who were the prominent actors in that remarkable scene in the drama of the world's history...

The signing of that instrument was a solemn act, and required great firmness and patriotism in those who committed it... neither firmness nor patriotism was wanting in that august body...

Such were the men unto whose keeping, as instruments of Providence, the destinies of America were for the time intrusted; and it has been well remarked, that men, other than such as these,--an ignorant, untaught mass, like those who have formed the physical elements of other revolutionary movements, without sufficient intellect to guide and control them--could not have conceived, planned, and carried into execution, such a mighty movement, one so fraught with tangible marks of political wisdom, as the American Revolution...

Their bodies now have all returned to their kindred dust in the grave, and their souls have gone to receive their reward in the Spirit Land.

It is thus made clear that the Declaration of Independence, from its inception to its unanimous adoption, was the gift of Churchmen to the country they loved so well. The resolution declaring the thirteen colonies free and independent was offered by Richard Henry Lee, of Virginia, a Churchman and a vestryman. The chairman of the committee to which this resolution was referred, Benjamin Harrison, of Virginia, was--as we have already stated--a Churchman and a vestryman. The author of the Declaration, Thomas Jefferson, was nominally a Churchman and had been a vestryman. The casting vote securing Pennsylvania's as sent to independence was cast by John Morton, of Pennsylvania, Churchman and churchwarden. The presence and vote of another Churchman and churchwarden, Caesar Rodney, of Delaware, made the action determining independence unanimous, while a Churchman's voice--that of John Nixon, sheriff of Philadelphia, a Churchman and a commununicant at Saint Peter's, Philadelphia, announced to the world that the deed was done--that America was free! (The first public announcement of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence was its reading from the State House steps by John Nixon, an earnest Churchman of the united parishes of Christ church and St. Peter's, at the order of the Congress.) Nor this only. The first connected draft of the American Constitution growing out of, and consequent upon, the Declaration was written by a Churchman, and churchwarden, Gouverneur Morris, of New York and New Jersey; while another Churchman and Church officer, Chief-Justice John Marshall, first expounded its meaning and established on the firm foundation of law its principles, which were ably enforced hy another Churchman and Chief-Justice, John Jay of New York. George Ross was Vice-President of the Pennsylvania Convention of July 15, 1776, and prepared and proposed the "Declaration of Rights" which dissolved Proprietary Government of the Province and declared the commonwealth free and independent agreeably to the Declaration.

Even the silver inkstand from which the Signers drew the ink with which they made their autographs on the parchment charter of American freedom was the handiwork of a devout and patriotic Churchman.

With these statements of the Church's controlling and determining influence in bringing about the Declaration of Independence, we may the better understand the assertion of the Puritan, John Adams, "that had it not been for such men as Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Samuel Chase, and Thomas Johnson, there would never have been any Revolution." (Quoted on p. 162 of "The Supreme Court of the United States: Its History," etc., by Hampton L. Carson. Philadelphia. 1891.)

• Sanderson, John, editor. Volume 1. Philadelphia: Joseph M. Sanderson for the Proprietor, 1820. v. 1. [John] Hancock. Also here.
• John Sanderson, editor. Volume 2. 1820. v. 2. Benjamin Franklin -- George Wythe -- Francis Hopkinson -- Robert Treat Paine. Also here.
• Robert Waln, Jr., editor. Volume 3. 1820. v. 3. Edward Rutledge -- Lyman Hall -- Oliver Wolcott -- Richard Stockton -- Button Gwinnett -- Josiah Bartlett -- Philip Livingston -- Roger Sherman. Also here.
• Robert Waln, Jr., editor. Volume 4. 1823. v. 4. Thomas Heyward, George Read, William Williams, Samuel Huntington, William Floyd, George Walton, George Clymer, Benjamin Rush. Also here.
• Robert Waln, Jr., editor. Volume 5. 1824. v. 5. Thomas Lynch, Jr., Matthew Thornton, William Whipple, John Witherspoon, Robert Morris. Also here.
• Robert Waln, Jr., editor. Volume 6. 1824. v. 6. Arthur Middleton, Abraham Clark, Francis Lewis, John Penn, James Wilson, Carter Braxton, John Morton, Stephen Hopkins, Thomas McKean. Also here.
• H.D. Gilpin, editor. Volume 7. 1827. v. 7. Thomas Jefferson, William Hooper, James Smith, Charles Carroll, Thomas Nelson Jr., Joseph Hewes.
• H.D. Gilpin, editor. Volume 8. 1827. v. 8. Elbridge Gerry, Cesar Rodney, Benjamin Harrison, William Paca, George Ross, John Adams. Also here.
• H.D. Gilpin, editor. Volume 9. 1827. v. 9. Richard Henry Lee, George Taylor, John Hart, Lewis Morris, Thomas Stone, Francis Lightfoot Lee, Samuel Chase, William Ellery, Samuel Adams. Also here.
• 1846 edition. Revised and edited by Robert T. Conrad. Thomas, Cowperthwait & Co., 1846. 720 pp.
  The education of that distinguished body is equally worthy the curiosity of the philosophic student. It may be doubted whether any popular political body has comprised so large a proportion of highly educated members. The number of those who had regularly graduated in the colleges of Europe or America was twenty-seven, or nearly one half the whole number. To the honour of Harvard it should be mentioned, that seven of the Signers came from that venerable institution. Twenty other members may be named whose education, though not regularly collegiate, was either academic, or, by dint of unaided energy, as in the case of Franklin, was equal or superior to the ordinary course of the universities. Nine of the members only of that august body can be set down as of ordinary and plain education; though in that number are included men of extensive reading, enlightened views, and enlarged sagacity. The congress did not contain one uneducated member.

  As further evidence of the enlightened character of these fathers of the republic, it should be stated, that many of them visited Europe and studied, at the fountain head, the principles of British constitutional liberty. Of the fifty-six members, twenty-five trod the soil, and studied the institutions, of the mother country. Some were born in Great Britain, many were educated there, and many visited it before or after the declaration. There is no movement on record to which so large an amount of political science, observation, wisdom, and experience was brought to bear, as in the American revolution.

  The condition in life of most of the Signers was such as to dispel all suspicion of selfish motives in their action. Many of them were among the most affluent, as Hancock, Carroll, Morris, and others, who staked all upon the contest; the majority were possessed of an ample competence; and with the exception of Samuel Adams, "the poor gentleman," and a few others, all had, besides life, something to lose, and nothing but liberty to gain, from the conflict which they invoked.

  The pursuits in life of the members of the congress afford some indication of their character and social position, and those of the classes and interests which they represented. The inquiry may dispel some unworthy prejudices as to classes. Nearly one half, to wit, twenty-four, of the Signers, were members of the legal profession, a body of whom it may be said, that they have been the original assertors and most faithful champions of constitutional liberty in all countries. Thirteen of the Signers were planters or farmers, the former being rather affluent land proprietors than practical agriculturists. Nine were merchants; five, physicians; two mechanics; one a clergyman; one a mariner; and one a surveyor. Many of these were engaged in mingled pursuits, and nearly all, were more or less interested in agriculture. It will be seen that a considerable majority were professional men.

  ... Another peculiarity should be mentioned. Not one of all that sacred band died with a stain upon his name. This work contains the biography of all; there is not one to blush for. Their lives, like the orbs that constitute the milky way, are one stream of light; and the glass of the historian, as it pierces the dim lustre, only reveals stars which are brighter as each is watched and studied. The annals of the world can present no political body, the lives of whose members, minutely traced, exhibit so much of the zeal of the patriot, dignified and chastened by the virtues of the man. Nearly all the Signers rose to high stations in their respective states and in the nation. The two members most active in the declaration of independence were elevated to the presidency of the republic; and, by a providential coincidence, departed this life on the anniversary of the day of their triumph, together, breathing the same blessing upon their common labours, and winging their way to their joint reward.

  --Extracts from Introduction, pp. vi, vii.

• 1848 edition. Thomas, Cowperthwait & Co., for James A. Bill, 1848. 834 pp.

• America's Christian Heritage.
• American Presidents.
• Fourth of July Orations.
• Prayer and Fasting Declarations.
• Thanksgiving Declarations.
• Moses and the Law.
• Seeds of American Freedom.
• Miracles in American History.
• The Case for Rebellion.

American President. Read more about President Adams here. Disclaimer: Adams shifted from Congregationalist to Unitarian.

• Review 1 The American Monthly Review; or, Literary Journal (1795-1795). Philadelphia: Aug 1795. Vol. 2, Issue 4; pp. 301-310. review of History of the Principal Republics in the World: A Defence of the Constitutions of Government of the United States of America, Against the Attack of M. Turgot, in His Letter to Dr. Price Dated the Twenty Second Day of March 1778."
• 1798 National Fasting and Prayer Proclamation. Copy here. Brief commentary by David Barton.

  ... "I have therefore thought fit to recommend, and I do hereby recommend, that Wednesday, the 9th day of May next, be observed throughout the United States as a day of solemn humiliation, fasting, and prayer; that the citizens of these States, abstaining on that day from their customary worldly occupations, offer their devout addresses to the Father of Mercies agreeably to those forms or methods which they have severally adopted as the most suitable and becoming; that all religious congregations do, with the deepest humility,acknowledge before God the manifold sins and transgressions with which we are justly chargeable as individuals and as a nation; beseeching Him at the same time, of His infinite grace, through the Redeemer of the world, freely to remit all our offenses, and to incline us, by His Holy Spirit, to that sincere repentance and reformation which may afford us reason to hope for his inestimable favor and heavenly benediction ..."

• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 553 pp. Volume 2 of 10. Preface and Diary. Includes diary entries for February 15-28, March 1-7, 12-26, August 1, September 10, October 17, 1756. Extracts.

  February 18. Wednesday. ..."The following questions may be answered some time or other, namely,--Where do we find a precept in the Gospel requiring Ecclesiastical Synods? Convocations? Councils? Decrees? Creeds? Confessions? Oaths? Subscriptions? and whole cart-loads of other trumpery that we find religion encumbered with in these days?"

  February 22. Sunday. "Suppose a nation in some distant region should take the Bible for their only law-book, and every member should regulate his conduct by the precepts there exhibited! Every member would be obliged, in conscience, to temperance and frugality and industry; to justice and kindness and charity towards his fellow men; and to piety, love, and reverence, towards Almighty God. In this commonwealth, no man would impair his health by gluttony, drunkenness, or lust; no man would sacrifice his most precious time to cards or any other trifling and mean amusement; no man would steal, or lie, or in any way defraud his neighbor, but would live in peace and good will with all men; no man would blaspheme his Maker or profane his worship; but a rational and manly, a sincere and unaffected piety and devotion would reign in all heats. What a Utopia; what a Paradise would this region be!"

  March 2. Tuesday. "Began this afternoon my third quarter. The great and Almighty author of nature, who at first established those rules which regulate the world, can as easily suspend those laws whenever his providence sees sufficient reason for such suspension. This can be no objection, then, to the miracles of Jesus Christ. Although some very thoughtful and contemplative men among the heathen attained a strong persuasion of the great principles of religion, yet the far greater number, having little time for speculation, gradually sunk into the grossest opinions and the grossest practices These, therefore, could not be made to embrace the true religion till their attention was roused by some astonishing and miraculous appearances. The reasoning of philosophers, having nothing surprising in them, could not overcome the force of prejudice, custom, passion, and bigotry. But when wise and virtuous men, commissioned from heaven, by miracles awakened men's attention to their reasonings, the force of truth made its way with ease to their minds."

  March 17. Wednesday. "A fine morning. Proceeded on my journey towards Braintree. Stopped to see Mr. Haven [The Reverend Jason Haven, then just ordained as pastor of the first parish in Dedham.], of Dedham, who told me, very civilly, he supposed I took my faith on trust from Dr. Mayhew, and added, that he believed the doctrine of the satisfaction of Jesus Christ to be essential to Christianity, and that he would not believe this satisfaction unless he believed the Divinity of Christ." ...

• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 553 pp. Volume 2 of 10. Autobiography.
• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 579 pp. Volume 3 of 10. ON SELF-DELUSION.
• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 579 pp. Volume 3 of 10. ON PRIVATE REVENGE.
• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 579 pp. Volume 3 of 10. Diary. Extracts.

  "The Christian religion is, above all the religions that ever prevailed or existed in ancient or modern times, the religion of wisdom, virtue, equity, and humanity, let the blackguard Paine say what he will; it is resignation to God, it is goodness itself to man."

  ... "One great advantage of the Christian religion is, that it brings the great principle of the law of nature and nations, -- Love your neighbor as yourself, and do to others as you would that others should do to you, -- to the knowledge, belief, and veneration of the whole people. Children, servants, women, and men, are all professors in the science of public and private morality. No other institution of education, no kind of political discipline, could diffuse this kind of necessary information, so universally among all ranks and descriptions of citizens. The duties and rights of the man and the citizen are thus taught from early infancy to every creature. The sanctions of a future life are thus added to the observance of civil and political, as well as domestic and private duties. Prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude, are thus taught to be the means and conditions of future as well as present happiness."

• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 546 pp. Volume 6 of 10. Four Letters: Being an Interesting Correspondence Between Those Eminently Distinguished Characters, John Adams, Late President of the United States; and Samuel Adams, Late Governor of Massachusetts.

  "The moment the idea is admitted into society, that property is not as sacred as the laws of God, and that there is not a force of law and public justice to protect it, anarchy and tyranny commence. If 'Thou shalt not covet,' and 'Thou shalt not steal,' were not commandments of Heaven, they must be made inviolable precepts in every society, before it can be civilized or made free."

• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 546 pp. Volume 6 of 10. Chapter I. Marchamont Nedham. The Right Constitution of a Commonwealth Examined.
• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 659 pp. Volume 9 of 10. TO ZABDIEL ADAMS. Philadelphia, 21 June, 1776. Also here. Zabdiel Adams (1739-1801), Lunenburg, Mass., minister, was a cousin of John Adams. Shipton, Harvard Graduates, 14:377-83. Zabdiel's June 9 letter to John is in Adams, Family Correspondence (Butterfield), 2:6-8.

  "I assure you, sir, that your Employment, in investigating the Moral Causes of our Miseries, and in pointing out the Remedies, is devoutly to be wished. There is no station more respectable; nor any so pleasant and agreable. Those who tread the public Stage, in Characters the most extensively conspicuous, meet with so many Embarrassments, Perplexities, and Disappointments, that they have often reason to wish for the peacefull Retreats of the Clergy.... Who would not wish to exchange the angry Contentions of the Forum, for the peacefull Contemplations of the Closet. Where Contemplations prune their ruffled Wings and the free Soul looks down to pitty Kings? Who would not Exchange the discordant Scenes of Envy, Pride, Vanity, Malice, Revenge, for the sweet Consolations of Philosophy, the serene Composure of the Passions, the divine Enjoyments of Christian Charity, and Benevolence?

  "Statesmen my dear Sir, may plan and speculate for Liberty, but it is Religion and Morality alone, which can establish the Principles upon which Freedom can securely stand.... The only foundation of a free Constitution, is pure Virtue, and if this cannot be inspired into our People, in a greater Measure, than they have it now, They may change their Rulers, and the forms of Government, but they will not obtain a lasting Liberty. They will only exchange Tyrants and Tyrannies. You cannot therefore be more pleasantly, or usefully employed than in the Way of your Profession, pulling down the Strong Holds of Satan. This is not Cant, but the real sentiment of my Heart. Remember me with much respect, to your worthy family, and to all Friends."

• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 659 pp. Volume 9 of 10. TO THE OFFICERS OF THE FIRST BRIGADE OF THE THIRD DIVISION OF THE MILITIA OF MASSACHUSETTS. 11 OCTOBER, 1798. Extract.

  "While our country remains untainted with the principles and manners which are now producing desolation in so many parts of the world; while she continues sincere, and incapable of insidious and impious policy, we shall have the strongest reason to rejoice in the local destination assigned us by Providence. But should the people of America once become capable of that deep simulation towards one another, and towards foreign nations, which assumes the language of justice and moderation while it is practising iniquity and extravagance, and displays in the most captivating manner the charming pictures of candor, frankness, and sincerity, while it is rioting in rapine and insolence, this country will be the most miserable habitation in the world; because we have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry, would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other."

• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 659 pp. Volume 9 of 10. TO BENJAMIN RUSH. Quincy, 21 January, 1810. A discussion of Thomas Paine.

  "I have not seen, but am impatient to see, Mr. Cheetham's life of Mr. Paine. His political writings, I am singular enough to believe, have done more harm than his irreligious ones. He understood neither government nor religion. From a malignant heart he wrote virulent declamations, which the enthusiastic fury of the times intimidated all men, even Mr. Burke, from answering as he ought. His deism, as it appears to me, has promoted rather than retarded the cause of revolution in America, and indeed in Europe. His billingsgate, stolen from Blount's Oracles of Reason, from Bolingbroke, Voltaire, Berenger, &c., will never discredit Christianity, which will hold its ground in some degree as long as human nature shall have any thing moral or intellectual left in it."

• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 659 pp. Volume 9 of 10. TO THE GRAND JURORS OF THE COUNTY OF HAMPSHIRE, MASSACHUSETTS. 3 OCTOBER, 1798.
• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 528 pp. Volume 10 of 10. TO F. A. VANDERKEMP, 27 DECEMBER, 1816.
• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 528 pp. Volume 10 of 10. Letter To Samuel Miller, July 8, 1820.
• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1850-1856. 528 pp. Volume 10 of 10.TO THOMAS JEFFERSON. Quincy: letters dated 17 July, 18 July, and 25 December 1813 .
• The Writings of Thomas Jefferson: Being His Autobiography, Correspondence, Reports, Messages, Addresses, and Other Writings, Official and Private, Published by the order of the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library, from the original manuscripts, deposited in the Department of State. With explanatory notes by the editor, H.A. Washington. Washington, D.C.: Taylor and Maury, 1854. Volume 6 of 9. John Adams to Thomas Jefferson, Quincy, 25 December, 1813. John Adams: "Philosophy looks with an impartial eye on all terrestrial religions. I have examined all, as well as my narrow sphere, my straightened means and my busy life would allow me, and the result is, that the Bible is the best book in the world. It contains more of my little philosophy than all the libraries I have seen; and such parts of it as I cannot reconcile to my little philosophy, I postpone for future investigation."
• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston: Little, Brown and Company, 1856. 528 pp. Volume 10 of 10. Letter to Jefferson, 28 June, 1813. Also in The Writings of Thomas Jefferson Washington D. C.: The Thomas Jefferson Memorial Association, 1904, Vol. XIII, pp. 292-294.

  "The general principles on which the fathers achieved independence, were the only principles in which that beautiful assembly of young men could unite, and these principles only could be intended by them in their address, or by me in my answer. And what were these general principles? I answer, the general principles of Christianity, in which all those sects were united, and the general principles of English and American liberty, in which all those young men united, and which had united all parties in America, in majorities sufficient to assert and maintain her independence. Now I will avow, that I then believed and now believe that those general principles of Christianity are as eternal and immutable as the existence and attributes of God; and that those principles of liberty are as unalterable as human nature and our terrestrial, mundane system. I could, therefore safely say, consistently with all my then and present information, that I believed they would never make discoveries in contradiction to these general principles."

• The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. Boston, 1856. 659 pp. Volume 10 of 10. Letters on John Otis. "Mr. Otis reproached the nation, parliaments, and kings, with injustice, ungenerosity, ingratitude, cruelty, and perfidy in all their conduct towards this country, in a style of oratory that I never heard equalled in this or any other country."
• John Adams to Abigail Adams, July 3, 1776. From Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 4 May 16, 1776 - August 15, 1776.

  "Yesterday the greatest Question was decided, which ever was debated in America, and a greater perhaps, never was or will be decided among Men. A Resolution was passed without one dissenting Colony "that these united Colonies, are, and of right ought to be free and independent States, and as such, they have, and of Right ought to have full Power to make War, conclude Peace, establish Commerce, and to do all the other Acts and Things, which other States may rightfully do." You will see in a few days a Declaration setting forth the Causes, which have impell'd Us to this mighty Revolution, and the Reasons which will justify it, in the Sight of God and Man. A Plan of Confederation will be taken up in a few days.

  When I look back to the Year 1761, and recollect the Argument concerning Writs of Assistance, in the Superiour Court, which I have hitherto considered as the Commencement of the Controversy, between Great Britain and America, and run through the whole Period from that Time to this, and recollect the series of political Events, the Chain of Causes and Effects, I am surprised at the Suddenness, as well as Greatness of this Revolution. Britain has been fill'd with Folly, and America with Wisdom, at least this is my Judgment. Time must determine. It is the Will of Heaven, that the two Countries should be sundered forever. It may be the Will of Heaven that America shall suffer Calamities still more wasting and Distresses yet more dreadful If this is to be the Case, it will have this good Effect, at least: it will inspire Us with many Virtues, which We have not, and correct many Errors, Follies, and Vices, which threaten to disturb, dishonour, and destroy Us. The Furnace of Affliction produces Refinement, in States as well as Individuals. And the new Governments we are assuming, in every Part, will require a Purification from our Vices, and an Augmentation of our Virtues or they will be no Blessings. The People will have unbounded Power. And the People are extreamly addicted to Corruption and Venality, as well as the Great. I am not without Apprehensions from this Quarter. But I must submit all my Hopes and Fears, to an overruling Providence, in which, unfashionable as the Faith may be, I firmly believe."

• John Adams to Abigail Adams, July 3, 1776 [second letter]. From Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 4 May 16, 1776 - August 15, 1776.

  Philadelphia July 3d. 1776 -- "Had a Declaration of Independency been made seven Months ago, it would have been attended with many great and glorious Effects. (1) We might before this Hour, have formed Alliances with foreign States. We should have mastered Quebec and been in Possession of Canada.... You will perhaps wonder, how such a Declaration would have influenced our Affairs, in Canada, but if I could write with Freedom I could easily convince you, that it would, and explain to you the manner how. Many Gentlemen in high Stations and of great Influence have been duped, by the ministerial Bubble of Commissioners to treat.... And in real, sincere Expectation of this Event, which they so fondly wished, they have been slow and languid, in promoting Measures for the Reduction of that Province. Others there are in the Colonies who really wished that our Enterprise in Canada would be defeated, that the Colonies might be brought into Danger and Distress between two Fires, and be thus induced to submit. Others really wished to defeat the Expedition to Canada, lest the Conquest of it, should elevate the Minds of the People too much to hearken to those Terms of Reconciliation which they believed would be offered Us. These jarring Views, Wishes and Designs, occasioned an opposition to many salutary Measures, which were proposed for the Support of that Expedition, and caused Obstructions, Embarrassments and studied Delays, which have finally, lost Us the Province.

  "All these Causes however in Conjunction would not have disappointed Us, if it had not been for a Misfortune, which could not be foreseen, and perhaps could not have been prevented, I mean thePrevalence of the small Pox among our Troops.... This fatal Pestilence compleated our Destruction. It is a Frown of Providence upon Us, which We ought to lay to heart. But on the other Hand, the Delay of this Declaration to this Time, has many great Advantages attending it. The Hopes of Reconciliation, which were fondly entertained by Multitudes of honest and well meaning tho weak and mistaken People, have been gradually and at last totally extinguished. Time has been given for the whole People, maturely to consider the great Question of Independence and to ripen their Judgments, dissipate their Fears, and allure their Hopes, by discussing it in News Papers and Pamphletts, by debating it, in Assemblies, Conventions, Committees of Safety and Inspection, in Town and County Meetings, as well as in private Conversations, so that the whole People in every Colony of the 13, have now adopted it, as their own Act. This will cement the Union, and avoid those Heats and perhaps Convulsions which might have been occasioned, by such a Declaration Six Months ago.

  "But the Day is past. The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.

  You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not."(2)

  RC (MHi). Adams, Family Correspondence (Butterfield), 2:29-31.
  1 Suspension points in MS, here and below.
  2 For the provenance and publication history of this celebrated letter, see Adams, Family Correspondence (Butterfield), 2:31n.9.

• Thoughts on government: applicable to the present state of the American colonies: In a letter from a gentleman to his friend. Philadelphia: Printed by John Dunlap, M,DCC,LXXVI. [1776] 28 pp.; 16 cm. (8vo)
  • Thoughts on government: applicable to the present state of the American colonies. In a letter from a gentleman to his friend. [Boston]: Philadelphia, printed. Boston: re-printed by John Gill, in Queen-Street, M,DCC,LXXVI. [1776] 16 pp.; 20 cm. (8vo)
• John Adams to Abigail Adams, October 26, 1777. From Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 8, September 19, 1777 - January 31, 1778.

  "Congress will appoint a Thanksgiving, and one Cause of it ought to be that the Glory of turning the Tide of Arms, is not immediately due to the Commander in Chief, nor to southern Troops. If it had been, Idolatry, and Adulation would have been unbounded, so excessive as to endanger our Liberties for what I know.

  "Now We can allow a certain Citizen to be wise, virtuous, and good, without thinking him a Deity or a saviour."

• Inaugural Address of John Adams. Inaugural Address in The City Of Philadelphia, Saturday, March 4, 1797.

  "When it was first perceived, in early times, that no middle course for America remained between unlimited submission to a foreign legislature and a total independence of its claims, men of reflection were less apprehensive of danger from the formidable power of fleets and armies they must determine to resist than from those contests and dissensions which would certainly arise concerning the forms of government to be instituted over the whole and over the parts of this extensive country. Relying, however, on the purity of their intentions, the justice of their cause, and the integrity and intelligence of the people, under an overruling Providence which had so signally protected this country from the first, the representatives of this nation, then consisting of little more than half its present number, not only broke to pieces the chains which were forging and the rod of iron that was lifted up, but frankly cut asunder the ties which had bound them, and launched into an ocean of uncertainty.

  ... "if elevated ideas of the high destinies of this country and of my own duties toward it, founded on a knowledge of the moral principles and intellectual improvements of the people deeply engraven on my mind in early life, and not obscured but exalted by experience and age; and, with humble reverence, I feel it to be my duty to add, if a veneration for the religion of a people who profess and call themselves Christians, and a fixed resolution to consider a decent respect for Christianity among the best recommendations for the public service, can enable me in any degree to comply with your wishes, it shall be my strenuous endeavor that this sagacious injunction of the two Houses shall not be without effect.

  "With this great example before me, with the sense and spirit, the faith and honor, the duty and interest, of the same American people pledged to support the Constitution of the United States, I entertain no doubt of its continuance in all its energy, and my mind is prepared without hesitation to lay myself under the most solemn obligations to support it to the utmost of my power.

  "And may that Being who is supreme over all, the Patron of Order, the Fountain of Justice, and the Protector in all ages of the world of virtuous liberty, continue His blessing upon this nation and its Government and give it all possible success and duration consistent with the ends of His providence."

• Barker, David. An Address in commemoration of the Independence of the United States: delivered at Rochester, July 4, 1828. Dover, [N.H.], 1828. 28 pp. Also here.
  

  "There is one fact immediately connected with this subject, which ought to be more generally known. At one moment, during the discussion of this momentous question in the Continental Congress, some of the most ardent friends of liberty conscious of its overwhelming importance began to hesitate and incline to timid perhaps it might be better said to prudent counsels. As a just tribute to the memory of John Adams, it should be told to every American citizen, that in this important exigency, he urged the adoption of the measure with all the energies of his mind and with all the powers of his eloquence. After stating fully the reasons of policy in favor of the declaration, he is said to have concluded his argument in language of the following animated and intrepid character.

  "Sir, I know the uncertainty of human affairs, but I see, I see clearly, through this day's business. You and I, indeed may rue it. We may not live to the time, when this declaration shall be made good. We may die; die, colonists; die, slaves; die, it may be, ignominiously and on the scaffold. Be it so. Be it so. If it be the pleasure of Heaven that my country shall require the poor offering of my life, the victim shall be ready, at the appointed hour of sacrifice, come when that hour may. But while I do live, let me have a country, or at least the hope of a country, and that a free country.

  "But whatever may be our fate, be assured that this declaration will stand. It may cost treasure, it may cost blood; but it will stand, and it will richly compensate for both. Through the thick gloom of the present, I see the brightness of the future as the sun in the Heavens. We shall make this a glorious, an immortal day. When we are in our graves, our children will honour it. They will celebrate it with thanksgiving, with festivity, with bonfires, and illuminations. Sir, before God, I believe the hour is come. My judgment approves this measure, and my whole heart is in it. All that I have, and all that I am, and all that I hope, in this life, I am now ready here to stake upon it; and I leave off as I begun, that live or die, survive or perish, I am for the declaration. It is my living sentiment, and by the blessing of God it shall be my dying sentiment; Independence now; and Independence forever."

  "His bold and determined counsel prevailed. The Declaration of Independence, as presented by Mr. Jefferson, the chairman of the committee, to which duty he was appointed on the nomination of Mr. Adams, was unanimously accepted by Congress.

  "To no one individual is this country more largely indebted, than to John Adams, for his ardent and patriotic zeal in the crisis of its destiny. This tribute of just acknowledgement should be the more cheerfully given, at this lime, as the malignity of party feeling, to accomplish its despicable purposes, has attempted to detract from his well earned fame, as a sincere and devoted friend of civil liberty. The means which are employed for this purpose, are well worthy of the object to be effected, and fully illustrate the character of his accusers. Soon after the peace of 1783, while Mr. Adams was in England, as the minister of the Confederated States, for the instruction of his countrymen in the principles of republican government he published a commentary on the constitutions of the several States. This work which contained copious historical details of most of the ancient and modern Republics, with sagacious reflections upon their excellencies and defects, was received with universal praise by the worthiest men of the time. It was not even suspected to contain a single maxim or comment inconsistent with the great principles of freedom, in support of which the contest had just ceased."

• Decease of Mr. Adams. Providence Patriot, Columbian Phenix, (Providence, RI) Saturday, July 8, 1826; Issue 54; col D.
• Death of John Adams. Connecticut Courant, July 10, 1826, p. 2; col F.
• Postscript Death of John Adams. Daily National Intelligencer, (Washington, DC) Monday, July 10, 1826; Issue 4200; col F.
• Agreeably to arrangements made, the remains of the Honorable JOHN ADAMS were entombed yesterday afternoon, at Quincy, with every token of veneration, respect and affection. Aurora and Franklin Gazette, (Philadelphia, PA) Wednesday, July 12, 1826; Issue 2571; col D.
• Religious character of John Adams, Extracted from a Sermon, (printed not published,) delivered at his interment, by Rev. P. Whitney of Quincy . Indiana Journal, (Indianapolis, IN) Tuesday, January 30, 1827; Issue 188; col C.
• John Adams. Daily National Intelligencer, (Washington, DC) Monday, September 10, 1827; Issue 4562; col B.
• James Cheetham. An Answer to Alexander Hamilton's Letter, concerning the public conduct and character of John Adams, Esq., president of the United States. New-York: Printed by P.R. Johnson & J. Stryker, 1800. 32 pp.; 23 cm. (8vo)
• John Adams . From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 1 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Congregationalist. Read about Samuel Adams here.

• Samuel Adams, the rights of the colonists; The Report of the committee of correspondence to the Boston town meeting, Nov. 20, 1772. 12 pp. 20 cm. Old South leaflets; no. 173. Benjamin Franklin, Preface to the English edition. Page view, Library of Congress. University of Virginia Library edition. Also Hanover University edition. Text-searchable.
  I. Natural Rights of the Colonists as Men.

  Among the natural rights of the Colonists are these: First, a right to life; Secondly, to liberty; Thirdly, to property; together with the right to support and defend them in the best manner they can. These are evident branches of, rather than deductions from, the duty of self-preservation, commonly called the first law of nature.

  All men have a right to remain in a state of nature as long as they please; and in case of intolerable oppression, civil or religious, to leave the society they belong to, and enter into another.

  When men enter into society, it is by voluntary consent; and they have a right to demand and insist upon the performance of such conditions and previous limitations as form an equitable original compact.

  Every natural right not expressly given up, or, from the nature of a social compact, necessarily ceded, remains.

  All positive and civil laws should conform, as far as possible, to the law of natural reason and equity.

  As neither reason requires nor religion permits the contrary, every man living in or out of a state of civil society has a right peaceably and quietly to worship God according to the dictates of his conscience.

  "Just and true liberty, equal and impartial liberty," in matters spiritual and temporal, is a thing that all men are clearly entitled to by the eternal and immutable laws of God and nature, [Page 418] as well as by the law of nations and all well-grounded municipal laws, which must have their foundation in the former.

  In regard to religion, mutual toleration in the different professions thereof is what all good and candid minds in all ages have ever practised, and, both by precept and example, inculcated on mankind. And it is now generally agreed among Christians that this spirit of toleration, in the fullest extent consistent with the being of civil society, is the chief characteristical mark of the Church. (* See Locke's Letters on Toleration.) Insomuch that Mr. Locke has asserted and proved, beyond the possibility of contradiction on any solid ground, that such toleration ought to be extended to all whose doctrines are not subversive of society. The only sects which he thinks ought to be, and which by all wise laws are excluded from such toleration, are those who teach doctrines subversive of the civil government under which they live. The Roman Catholics or Papists are excluded by reason of such doctrines as these, that princes excommunicated may be deposed, and those that they call heretics may be destroyed without mercy; besides their recognizing the Pope in so absolute a manner, in subversion of government, by introducing, as far as possible into the states under whose protection they enjoy life, liberty, and property, that solecism in politics, imperium in imperio, leading directly to the worst anarchy and confusion, civil discord, war, and bloodshed. (* Political disabilities were not removed from the Catholics in England until 1820--Editor)

  The natural liberty of man, by entering into society, is abridged or restrained, so far only as is necessary for the great end of society, the best good of the whole.

  In the state of nature every man is, under God, judge and sole judge of his own rights and of the injuries done him. By entering into society he agrees to an arbiter or indifferent judge between him and his neighbors; but he no more renounces his original right than by taking a cause out of the ordinary course of law, and leaving the decision to referees or indifferent arbitrators.

  In the last case, he must pay the referees for time and trouble. He should also be willing to pay his just quota for the support of government, the law, and the constitution; the end of which is to furnish indifferent and impartial judges in all cases that may happen, whether civil, ecclesiastical, marine, or military.

  [Page 419] The natural liberty of man is to be free from any superior power on earth, and not to be under the will or legislative authority of man, but only to have the law of nature for his rule. (* Locke on Government)

  In the state of nature men may, as the patriarchs did, employ hired servants for the defence of their lives, liberties, and property; and they should pay them reasonable wages. Government was instituted for the purposes of common defence, and those who hold the reins of government have an equitable, natural right to an honorable support from the same principle that "the laborer is worthy of his hire." But then the same community which they serve ought to be the assessors of their pay. Governors have no right to seek and take what they please; by this, instead of being content with the station assigned them, that of honorable servants of the society, they would soon become absolute masters, despots, and tyrants. Hence, as a private man has a right to say what wages he will give in his private affairs, so has a community to determine what they will give and grant of their substance for the administration of public affairs. And, in both cases, more are ready to offer their service at the proposed and stipulated price than are able and willing to perform their duty.

  In short, it is the greatest absurdity to suppose it in the power of one, or any number of men, at the entering into society, to renounce their essential natural rights, or the means of preserving those rights; when the grand end of civil government, from the very nature of its institution, is for the support, protection, and defence of those very rights; the principal of which, as is before observed, are Life, Liberty, and Property. If men, through fear, fraud, or mistake, should in terms renounce or give up any essential natural right, the eternal law of reason and the grand end of society would absolutely vacate such renunciation. The right to freedom being the gift of God Almighty, it is not in the power of man to alienate this gift and voluntarily become a slave.

  II. The Rights of the Colonists as Christians.

  These may be best understood by reading and carefully studying the institutes of the great Law Giver and Head of the Christian Church, which are to be found clearly written and promulgated in the New Testament.

  [Page 420] By the act of the British Parliament, commonly called the Toleration Act, every subject in England, except Papists, &c., was restored to, and re-established in, his natural right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience. And, by the charter of this Province, it is granted, ordained, and established (that is, declared as an original right) that there shall be liberty of conscience allowed in the worship of God to all Christians, except Papists, inhabiting, or which shall inhabit or be resident within, such Province or Territory. (* See 1 Wm. and Mary, St. 2, C. 18, and Massachusetts Charter.) Magna Charta itself is in substance but a constrained declaration or proclamation and promulgation in the name of the King, Lords, and Commons, of the sense the latter had of their original, inherent, indefeasible natural rights, (*Lord Coke's Inst. Blackstone's Commentaries VI., p. 122. The Bill of Rights and the Act of Settlement) as also those of free citizens equally perdurable with the other. That great author, that great jurist, and even that court writer, Mr. Justice Blackstone, holds that this recognition was justly obtained of King John, sword in hand. And peradventure it must be one day, sword in hand, again rescued and preserved from total destruction and oblivion. ...

  • William Vincent Wells, 1826-1876. The Life and Public Services of Samuel Adams: being a narrative of his acts and opinions, and of his agency in producing and forwarding the American Revolution. With extracts from his correspondence, state papers, and political essays. Little, Brown, and Company, 1865. Volume 1 of 3. Volume 2 of 3. Volume 3 of 3.
    Applewood Books, 2009 edition. 548 pp. Text searchable.
    Here is embodied the whole philosophy of human rights, condensed from the doctrines of all time, and applied to the immediate circumstances of America. Upon this paper was based all that was written or spoken on human liberty in the Congress which declared independence; and the immortal instrument itself is, in many features, but a repetition of the principles here enunciated, and of Joseph Warren's list of grievances, which followed the Rights of the Colonists in the report. If we look back to the first efforts of Samuel Adams, when, as a young essayist in the obscure little weekly paper of his native town, twenty-five years before, he boldly advocated the liberties of the people against oppressive rulers, we shall find that his ideas on these subjects were as firmly fixed as now, when he gave them not to a circle of provincial readers alone, but to the world. The sentiments are the same, and the man who adopted them must have been by nature an assertor of popular rights. There can be no better proof of the admirable consistency of his character than a patient examination of his works throughout his long life. At the age of fifty he found no reason to retract a word, or retrace a step; and the principles with which he had commenced life accompanied him to the close. When another century had dawned upon him, and he was fast sinking into the grave, his sincere admirer, Thomas Jefferson, then just elected President of the United States, wrote to his "ever respected and venerable friend": "Your principles have been tested in the crucible of time, and have come out pure. You have proved that it was monarchy, and not merely British monarchy, you opposed. A government by representatives, elected by the people at short periods, was our object, and our maxim at that day was,' Where annual election ends, tyranny begins.' " (* Thomas Jefferson to Samuel Adorns, Feb. 26, 1801.)
• Harry Alonzo Cushing, editor. The Writings of Samuel Adams. New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1907), Volume III, p. 236-237, to James Warren on November 4, 1775. "Nothing is more essential to the establishment of manners in a State than that all persons employed in places of power and trust be men of unexceptionable characters. The public cannot be too curious concerning the character of public men."
• Samuel Adams to Elizabeth Adams on December 26, 1776. From Letters of Delegates to Congress: August 16, 1776-December 31, 1776. "I pray God to continue your Health and protect you in these perilous times from every kind of Evil. The Name of the Lord, says the Scripture, is a strong Tower, thither the Righteous flee and are safe [Proverbs 18:10]. Let us secure his Favor, and he will lead us through the Journey of this Life and at length receive us to a better."
• Samuel Adams to Elizabeth Adams, Jany 29th. 1777. Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 6 January 1, 1777 - April 30, 1777. "I thank you, my dear, most cordially for the Warmth of Affection which you express on this Occasion, for your Anxiety for my Safety and your Prayers to God for my Protection. The Man who is conscientiously doing his Duty will ever be protected by that Righteous and all powerful Being, and when he has finishd his Work he will receive an ample Reward. I am not more convincd of any thing than that it is my Duty to oppose to the utmost of my Ability the Designs of those who would enslave my Country; and with Gods Assistance I am resolvd to oppose them till their Designs are defeated or I am called to quit the Stage of Life."
• Proclamation for a Day of Public Fasting -- see also 1795 Massachusetts Fasting and Prayer Proclamation.
• Samuel Adams to Samuel P. Savage and James Warren, October 26, 1777. From Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 8, September 19, 1777 - January 31, 1778.

  "I heartily congratulate you on the entire Victory obtained by General Gates over Burgoin. This is a Striking Instance of the Truth of the Observation in Holy Writ "Pride goeth before a Fall." Our sincere Acknowledgments of Gratitude are due to the supreme Disposer of all Events. I suppose Congress will recommend that a Day be set apart through out the United States for solemn Thanksgiving.

  "I rejoyce that my Friend General Gates, after what had happend, is honord by Providence as the Instrument in this great Affair."

  Samuel Adams to James Warren: "I hope our Countrymen will render the just Tribute of Praise to the Supreme Ruler for these signal Instances of his Interposition in favor of a People struggling for their Liberties. Congress will, I suppose recommend the setting apart one Day of publick Thanksgiving to be observd throughout the united States."

• Samuel Adams to James Warren, October 29, 1777. From Letters of Delegates to Congress: Volume 8 September 19, 1777 - January 31, 1778.

  "I believe my Country will fix their Eyes and their Choice on a Man of Religion and Piety; who will understand human Nature and the Nature and End of political Society-who will not by Corruption or Flattery be seducd to the betraying, even without being sensible of it himself, the sacred Rights of his Country.

  "The Success of the present Campain hitherto has been great beyond our most sanguine Expectation. Let us ascribe Glory to God who has graciously vouchsafd to favor the Cause of America and of Mankind."

• Harry Alonzo Cushing, editor. The Writings of Samuel Adams. New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1907), Volume IV, p. 256, in the Boston Gazette on April 16, 1781. "Before this will reach you, your Countrymen will have finished the important business of electing their Legislators, Magistrates and Governors for the ensuing year. I hope they have made a wise choice. At least, from the opinion I entertain of their virtue, I am persuaded they have acted with all that deliberation and caution which the solemnity of the transaction required. They may then reflect, each one on his own integrity, and appeal to the Monitor within his breast, that he has not trifled with the sacred trust reposed in him by GOD and his country 'that he has not prostituted his honor and conscience to please a friend or a patron' that he has not been influenced with the view of private emolument to himself and his family, but has faithfully given his vote for the candidate whom he thought most worthy the choice of free and virtuous citizens."
• Daniel Foster. A Sermon Preached Before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq., Governour [sic]; His Honor Samuel Adams, Esq., Lieutenant-Governour; The Honourable The [sic] Council, Senate, and House of Representatives, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 26, 1790. An election sermon.
• Harry Alonzo Cushing, editor. The Writings of Samuel Adams. New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons, 1908), Vol. IV, p. 361,Proclamation for a Day of Fasting and Prayer, February 19, 1794.
  ... "we may with one heart and voice humbly implore His gracious and free pardon through Jesus Christ, supplicating His Divine aid ... [and] above all to cause the religion of Jesus Christ, in its true spirit, to spread far and wide till the whole earth shall be filled with His glory."
• Harry Alonzo Cushing, editor. The Writings of Samuel Adams. New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons, 1908), Vol. IV, p. 385, from his proclamation of October 14, 1795. A Proclamation For a Day of Public Fasting, Humiliation and Prayer, given as the Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, from an original broadside in our possession.
  ... "the peaceful and glorious reign of our Divine Redeemer may be known and enjoyed throughout the whole family of mankind."
• Proclamation for a Day of Fasting and Prayer, March 15, 1796.
  ... "And I do exhort the People of all Religious Denominations, to assemble in their respective Congregations on that Day, and with true contrition of Heart, to confess their Sins to God, and implore forgiveness through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ our Saviour ..."
• Harry Alonzo Cushing, editor. The Writings of Samuel Adams. New York: G. P. Putnam's Sons, 1908, Vol. IV, p. 407, from his proclamation of March 20, 1797. From a Fast Day Proclamation issued by Governor Samuel Adams, Massachusetts, March 20, 1797.
  "I conceive we cannot better express ourselves than by humbly supplicating the Supreme Ruler of the world that the rod of tyrants may be broken into pieces, and the oppressed made free; that wars may cease in all the earth, and that the confusions that are and have been among the nations may be overruled by the promoting and speedily bringing in the holy and happy period when the kingdoms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ may be everywhere established, and the people willingly bow to the scepter of Him who is the Prince of Peace."
• William V. Wells, editor. The Life and Public Services of Samuel Adams, being a narrative of his acts and opinions, and of his agency in producing and forwarding the American Revolution. With extracts from his correspondence, state papers, and political essays. Boston: Little, Brown & Co, 1865. Volume 1 of 3. Volume 2 of 3. Volume 3 of 3. LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF SAMUEL ADAMS.
  In the name of God, Amen. I, Samuel Adams of Boston, in the County of Suffolk, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Esquire, being, through Divine goodness, of sound and disposing mind and memory, and considering the uncertainty of human life, do make and ordain this to be my last will and testament, in manner and form following, viz.: Principally and first of all, I recommend my soul to that Almighty Being who gave it, and my body I commit to the dust, relying on the merits of Jesus Christ for a pardon of all my sins; and as to such worldly estate as God hath been pleased to bestow upon me, I give, devise, and dispose of the same in the following manner ..." p. 379.
• Samuel Adams. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Congregationalist; Episcopalian. Delegate from Georgia. OCLC Note: Baldwin was born in North Guilford, Conn., graduated from Yale University (1772) and served in the Revolutionary War (1777-1783) as chaplain. He studied law and admitted to the bar in Conn. in 1784. He moved to Augusta, Ga., in 1784 to practice law. After service in the Georgia House of Representatives (1785) he served in the Continental Congress from Georgia (1785, 1787 and 1788) and was a member of the U.S. Constitutional Congress. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives (1789-1799) and in the U.S. Senate (1799-1807). He was one of the founders of the University of Georgia and its first president (1786-1801).

Dictionary of Georgia Biography, Vol. 1, p. 47-8, E. Merton Coulter: Abraham Baldwin, Georgia politician and educator, and Founder of the University of Georgia, was born in North Guilford, Connecticut, on November 22, 1754, to Michael and Lucy Dudley Baldwin. Michael, the local blacksmith, had moved his family (including Abraham and his seven half-siblings) to New Haven to secure an education for his children. There, Abraham attended Yale College, and remained three years after graduation to study theology. He was licensed to preach in 1775, but became a tutor at Yale instead, remaining there until 1779. He joined the Continental Army as a Chaplain, serving in Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey. During this service, he met George Washington, Nathanael Greene, and other future leaders. Yale asked him to return as a professor of Divinity in 1781, but Baldwin declined, preferring to study the law rather than submit to the narrow controlled environment at the college. After he was licensed to practice, he elected to move to Georgia in 1783, probably at the urging of Greene.

Settling in Savannah, Baldwin quickly found his place in Georgia, and followed the relocation of the state capitol to Augusta. In the fall of 1784, he was elected to the legislature from Wilkes County, and soon became well-to-do by means of his thriving law practice. In February of 1784, he had been asked to sit on a board of trustees charged with administering a land grant of 40,000 acres set aside by the state for the purpose of establishing a "College or Seminary of Learning". Baldwin wrote the charter for the University of Georgia, and saw it adopted by the state legislature in January of 1785. This charter was the first ever written and adopted for a state-supported public University.

The University, originally to be sited at the planned new state capitol in Louisville, was not built until 1801 due to a war with Creek Indians, and then it was situated at a spot on the Oconee River selected by a committee led by Baldwin. The town was named Athens, and work on the actual University was begun. Also in 1785, Baldwin was named a delegate to the Confederation Congress, where he served until the Constitution became the law of the land. From 1788 to 1798, he served in the House of Representatives, and he was elected a Senator by the state legislature that same year. He would remain in the U.S . Senate until his death, serving several times as President pro tempore of that body. He chaired the committee which structured the national executive branch, and accomplished much in the area of negotiations with the various Indian tribes in his adopted home state. A man of enormous personal integrity, he was able to avoid a duel when challenged. Baldwin was firmly committed to states' rights, and felt that, although slavery was wrong, that Georgia would eventually abandon it. He was opposed to war as a tool of political policy, and though originally more conservative in his political philosophies, gradually became more liberal, and counted Thomas Jefferson as a close friend.

The day after the closing session of the 9th session of Congress (March 4, 1807), Abraham Baldwin died in Washington D.C., and was buried in Rock Creek Cemetery.

Read about Baldwin here, here, and here.

• Abraham Baldwin papers, circa 1770-1808. Hargrett Rare Book & Manuscript Library, University of Georgia. The collection includes essays on the right of revolt against England, natural law, and the nature of the federal constitution. There are also his Observations on the Literature of Georgia, extracts from Joel Barlow's Commonplace Book, and a hand-drawn map of Georgia which appears to date from the last decade of the 18th Century, though it is undated.

Congregationalist. American physician and statesman in Kingston, New Hampshire. Delegate to the Continental Congress for New Hampshire. Signer of the Declaration of Independence. Later, Chief Justice of the New Hampshire Superior Court of Judicature and Governor of New Hampshire. Read about Bartlett here, here, here and here. Not to be confused with Josiah Bartlett, 1759-1820, Freemason.

• New Hampshire. Governor (1793-1794: Bartlett). By His Excellency Josiah Bartlett, Esquire, President of the state of Newhampshire. A Proclamation for a Publick Thanksgiving. ... Thursday the twenty-fifth day of November next ... Given at the Council-chamber, in Exeter, this thirteenth day of October ... one thousand seven hundred and ninety. Printed at Exeter [N.H.]: by Henry Ranlet, [1790]. 1 sheet; 39 x 32 cm.

• New Hampshire. Governor (1793-1794: Bartlett) By His Excellency Josiah Bartlett, Esquire ... A Proclamation for a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer. ... Thursday the fifth day of April next ... Given at the Council-chamber, in Exeter, this twenty-seventh day of February, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, seven hundred and ninety-two ... [Exeter, N.H.: Printed by Henry Ranlet, 1792. 1 sheet; 37 x 31 cm.

  "... I do ernestly recommend it to Ministers and People of all denominations, to assemble on that day in their usual places of public worship, and with true contrition of heart, to confess before God their aggravated transgressions and to implore his pardon and forgiveness through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ ... And above all, that the knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ may be made known to all nations, pure and undefiled religion universally prevail, and the earth be fill with the glory of the Lord."

• New Hampshire. Governor (1793-1794: Bartlett) By His Excellency Josiah Bartlett, Esq. president of the state of New-Hampshire. A Proclamation for a day of public fasting, humiliation and prayer ... Thursday the fourth day of April next to be observed as a day of general fasting, humiliation and prayer ... Given at the Council chamber in Exeter, the ninth day of February ... one thousand seven hundred and ninety-three .... Portsmouth, State of New-Hampshire: Printed by John Melcher, printer to the Honorable General-Court of said State, 1793. 1 sheet; 36 x 29 cm.

• New Hampshire. Governor (1793-1794: Bartlett). Proclamation - Thanksgiving Day - 1793, New Hampshire. This is the text of a proclamation by Josiah Bartlett (Signer of the Declaration of Independence), governor of New Hampshire, given on October 5, 1793. It declares November 21, 1793 to be a day of Public Thanksgiving. This proclamation was published in The Oracle of the Day on October 26, 1793. [Proclamation 10/05/1793]

  "That God would be pleased to look down with an eye of compassion upon the whole human race, and dispel those clouds of ignorance, superstition and bigotry that overspread so great a part of the world, and that the knowledge of and reverential love and regard to the One God and Father, of all, and a true benevolence and good will to their fellow men, may pervade the hearts, and influence the lives of all mankind, and all Nations, Languages and Tongues be brought to join in singing, Glory to God in the highest, on Earth Peace and good will to men."

  "That it would please Him [God] still to have these United States under His Holy protection and guidance ? that He would inspire those who have the management of all our public affairs with all that wisdom, prudence and integrity that is necessary to the faithful discharge of their important trusts, that all their determinations may tend to promote the real happiness and prosperity of this great and rising Republic, and that all people may be disposed to afflict in carrying such determinations into effect."

  "That He [GOD] had been pleased to continue to us the inestimable blessings of civil and religious liberty."

• New Hampshire. Governor (1793-1794: Bartlett) By His Excellency Josiah Bartlett, Esq. ... A Proclamation for a day of public fasting, humiliation and prayer. As it is the duty and happiness of all men to acknowledge their dependence on the Supreme governor of the Universe, penitently to confess their sins, and devoutly to imployre his mercy: I have thought fit, by and with the advice of the Council, and at the request of the General Court, to issue this Proclaimation, appointing THURSDAY the twenty-seventh day of March next, to be observed as a general and public FAST throughout this State. And I hereby set apart the said day, and call on Ministers and People of every denominationto consecreate the same to the purpose of Public Humiliation and Prayer ... ... Given at the Council-chamber in Exeter, the sixth day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety-four ...[Portsmouth, N.H.: Printed by John Melcher, 1794. 1 sheet; 38 x 31 cm.

• Papers. Private and public papers relating to his involvement in the American revolution, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the presidency and governorship of New Hampshire. Correspondents and subjects include: Jeremy Belknap, Jonathan Blanchard, John Taylor Gilman, Nicholas Gilman, Henry Knox, John Langdon, Nathaniel Peabody, Benjamin Rush, Jeremiah Smith, Ebenezer Thompson, Meshech Weare, John Wheelock, William Whipple, and William Williams.

Methodist. Delegate from Delaware. American lawyer and politician from Dover, in Kent County, Delaware. He was a veteran of the American Revolution, a delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, and a member of the Federalist Party, who served in the Delaware General Assembly, as Governor of Delaware, and as U.S. Senator from Delaware. Read about Bassett in the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress and at the United States Army Center of Military History.

• The protest of the Hon. Richard Bassett: one of the judges of the circuit courts of the United States, for the third circuit: against two acts of Congress of the 8th of March and 29th of April 1802, attempting to abolish the offices and salaries of the judges of the circuit courts of the United States: first published in the Gazette of the United States, August 21, 1802. Philadelphia, 1802. 49 pp.

Presbyterian. His tombstone reads, in part: "In Hope of a joyful resurrection through faith in Jesus Christ here rests the mortal part of Gunning Bedford ... His form was goodly, his temper amiable, his manner winning, and his discharge of private duties exemplary. Reader, may his example stimulate you to improve the talents --be they five or two, or one--with which God has entrusted you." OCLC note: Delegate to the Continental Congress, the Annapolis Convention of 1786, and the Constitutional Convention; member of the Delaware Convention that ratified the Constitution; federal district judge for Delaware (1789-1812); known as Gunning Bedford, Jr., to distinguish himself from an older cousin, Gunning Bedford, Sr., (1742-1797). Read about Bedford here, here and here. Note: He served as Grand Master of the Delaware Masonic Lodge.

• Funeral Oration Upon the Death of General George Washington: Prepared at the request of the Masonic Lodge, no. 14, of Wilmington, state of Delaware, and delivered on St. John the Evangelist's day, being the 27th of December, anno lucis 5799; and now published at the particular desire of the Lodge. / By Gunning Bedford, A.M.; [Two lines in Latin from Horace]Wilmington: James Wilson, 1800.
  "To the triune God - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost - be ascribed all honor and dominion, forevermore - Amen." p. 18.

Episcopalian. American political leader. Read about Braxton here and here.

• An Address to the Convention of the Colony of Ancient Dominion of Virginia; on the subject of government in general, and recommending a particular form to their consideration.Philadelphia: Printed by John Dunlap, in Market-Street., 1776. 25, [3] pp.; (8vo)
• Carter Braxton. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Catholic. American political leader. Read about Carroll here and here.

Lossing, p. 158: "Charles Carroll, the Revolutionary patriot, was born on the twentieth of September, 1737. When he was only eight years of age, his father, who was a Roman Catholic, took him to France, and entered him as a student in the Jesuit College at St. Omer's. There he remained six years, and then went to another Jesuit seminary of learning, at Rheims. After remaining there one year, he entered the College of Louis le Grand, whence he graduated at the age of seventeen years, and then commenced the study of law at Bourges. He remained at Bourges one year, and then moved to Paris, where he continued until 1757. He then went to London for the purpose of continuing his law studies there. He took apartments in the Inner Temple, where he remained until 1765, and then returned to Maryland, a most finished scholar and well-bred gentleman."

• A Letter from Charles Carroll, Senior, to the reader: With his petition to the General Assembly of Maryland; his speech in support of it; and, the resolution of the House of Delegates thereon. [Seven lines of quotations]. Annapolis: Printed by Frederick Green, MDCCLXXIX. [1779] 16 pp.
• Journal of Charles Carroll of Carrollton, during his visit to Canada in 1776, as one of the commissioners from Congress. Baltimore, J. Murphy, 1845. 84 pp. 23 cm. With a memoir and notes by Brantz Mayer. Pittsburgh: University of Pittsburgh, Digital Research Library. Text-searchable.
• Charles Carroll Letter. Written to Dr. Charles Wharton, an Episcopal clergyman, 27th September 1825: "Too much of my time & attention have been misapplied on matters to which an impartial Judge, penetrating the secrets of hearts, before whom I shall soon appear, will ascribe merit deserving recompense. On the mercy of my redeemer I rely for salvation and on his merits; not on the works I have done in obedience to his precepts, for even these, I fear, a fallacy a mixture will render unavailing, and cause to be rejected." Extract of letter published in The Boston news-letter: and city record, Volume 2, pp. 55-56. Also in Volume 74; Volume 914 of American periodical series: 1800-1850; Authors Abel Bowen, Jerome Van Crowninshield Smith; publisher Abel Bowen, 1826.
• Bernard C. Steiner. The Life and Correspondence of James McHenry, Secretary of War under Washington and Adams. Cleveland: The Burrows Brothers, 1907. 660 pp. Letter to James McHenry of November 4, 1800, p. 475.
  "Without morals a republic cannot subsist any length of time; they therefore who are decrying the Christian religion, whose morality is so sublime & pure, [and] which denounces against the wicked eternal misery, and [which] insured to the good eternal happiness, are undermining the solid foundation of morals, the best security for the duration of free governments."
• Leonard, Lewis Alexander, 1845-1926. Life of Charles Carroll of Carrollton. New York, Moffat, 1918. 313 pp. Also here, here, here, and here.
• Taggart, Joseph, 1867- . Biographical sketches of the eminent American patriots, Charles Carroll, of Carrollton; Roger Brooke Taney; William Starke Rosecrans; John Barry; Philip Henry Sheridan, and a sketch of the early history of Maryland. Kansas City, Mo., Burton Co., 1907. 299 pp. front., 2 pl., ports., facsim. 23 cm.
• Sergeant, John, 1779-1852. Eulogy on Charles Carroll of Carrollton, delivered at the request of the Select and Common Councils of the city of Philadelphia, December 31st, 1832. Philadelphia: Printed by L.R. Bailey, 1833. 45 pp.; 23 cm. Also Darlington digital library edition. University of Pittsburgh Digital Research Library,/ 2007. Text-searchable.
• Gurn, Joseph. Charles Carroll of Carrollton, 1737-1832. New York, P.J. Kenedy & Sons, 1932. Also here and here.
• Unpublished letters of Charles Carroll of Carrollton and of his father, Charles Carroll of Doughoregan. New York, United States Catholic Historical Society, 1902. Also here.
• Stephen M. Krason. Catholic makers of America; biographical sketches of Catholic statesmen and political thinkers in America's first century, 1776-1876. Front Royal, VA: Christendom Press, 1993. Charles Carroll of Carrollton: Founding Father (1736-1832) / Thomas O'Brien Hanley -- Daniel Carroll: merchant-planter and Founding Father (1730-1796) / John J. Carrigg -- Thomas Fitzsimons: merchant-statesman of the American Revolution (1741-1811) / Donald J. D'Elia -- Thoms Sim Lee: Revolutionary era state governor (1745-1819) / James R. Gaston -- William Gaston: ante-bellum Southern Catholic Conservative (1778-1844) / David M. Rooney -- Roger Brooke Taney: courageous and controversial lawyer, statesman, and chief justice of the Supreme Court (1777-1864) / Stephen M. Krason -- Orestes A. Brownson: American Catholic political thinker (1803-1876) / Americo D. Lapati -- Peter Hardeman Burnett: pioneer and politician (1807-1895) / Stuart Gudowitz -- James Campbell: civic leader, judge, and presidential cabinet member (1812-1893) / Stephen M. Krason.

Episcopalian. Delegate of Maryland. Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Read more about Chase here, here, here, and in The Oyez Project.

• Charles Augustus Goodrich. Lives of the Signers to the Declaration of Independence. W. Reed & co., 1829. 460 pp.
• Jane Shaffer Elsmere. Justice Samuel Chase. Muncie, Ind.: Janevar Pub. Co., Edition: 1st ed. 1980. xiii, 370 pp.
• Samuel Chase. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Presbyterian. Delegate and a Representative from New Jersey. Read more about Clark here and here.

• Ann Clark Hart. Abraham Clark signer of the Declaration of Independence. San Francisco, Calif.: Pioneer Press, 1923, 214 pp. Also here and here.
• Ruth Bogin. Abraham Clark and the quest for equality in the Revolutionary Era, 1774-1794. Rutherford [N.J.]: Fairleigh Dickinson University Press; London; East Brunswick, N.J.: Associated University Presses, 1982, 219 pp.: port.; 24 cm. Also here.

Quaker, Episcopalian. OCLC Notes: Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Pennsylvania, member of the Continental Congress, signer of the Constitution, and a representative in the first U.S. Congress. Read more about Clymer here, here, here, here, here and in Lives of the signers to the Declaration of Independence by Charles Augustus Goodrich.

• Papers, 1785-1848. American Philosophical Society Library. This collection contains legal papers, including deeds, patents, articles of agreement, power of attorney; also some letters from Clymer and John Reed to Samuel A. Law. Persons mentioned include Henry Drinker, Tench Francis, Samuel Meredith, and Thomas Meredith. Items dating after 1813 pertain to legal matters regarding Clymer's estate.
• Notice of Mr. Clymer. The Port - Folio (1801-1827). Philadelphia: Apr 1813. Vol. 1, Iss. 4; p. 373.

Congregationalist. Representative of Rhode Island. Read about Ellery here, here, and here.

• William Ellery . From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 1 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.
• Edward T. Channing. Life of William Ellery. Jared Sparks. Volume 6 of The Library of American Biography, Hilliard, Gray, 1836

Presbyterian. Representative from New York. Read about Floyd here, here and here.

• Biographical Sketches; William Floyd. The Monthly Repository and Library of Entertaining Knowledge (1830-1834). New York: Apr 1833. Vol. 3, Iss. 11; p. 386.

Unitarian. A Founding Father of the United States of America. Author, printer, satirist, political theorist, politician, scientist, inventor, civic activist, statesman, and diplomat. Read more about Franklin here, here, here, and in The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin.

• Joseph Priestley. Memoirs of Dr. Joseph Priestley to the year 1795. Volume 1 of 2. London, 1825. 499 pp. Extract.
• With William Temple Franklin. The Posthumous and other writings of Benjamin Franklin. Volume 1 of 2. Second editon. London, H. Colburn, 1819. Published from the originals, by his grandson, William Temple Franklin. Extract.
• Two tracts: information to those who would remove to America, and remarks concerning the savages of North America. 2nd ed. London: Printed for J. Stockdale, 1784. 39 pp.; 23 cm.
  "To this may be truly added, that serious Religion, under its various denominations, is not only tolerated, but respected and practised. Atheism is unknown there; Infidelity rare and secret; so that persons my live to a great age in that country without having their piety shocked by meeting with either an Atheist or an Infidel. And the Divine Being seems to have manifested his approbation of the mutual forbearance and kindness with which the different sects treat each other, by the remarkable prosperity with which he has been pleased to favour the whole country."--p. 18.
• The Life of Dr. Benjamin Franklin, written by himself; with essays, humorous, moral and literary. Boston: I. Thomas, Jun.: J.T. Buckingham, (Boston: J.T. Buckingham), 1815. 169 pp.: port. Extracts: Preface. Franklin's epitaph. Franklin's will. The Body
  Of
  Benjamin Franklin, printer,
  (Like the cover of an old book
  Its contents torn out
  And stript of its lettering and gilding)
  Lies here food for worms;
  Yet the work itself shall not be lost,
  For it will (as he believed) appear once more
  In a new
  And more beautiful edition,
  Corrected and amended
  By
  The Author
  
• Articles of Belief and Acts of Religion, in Two Parts.
• Jared Sparks, editor. The Works of Benjamin Franklin: containing several political and historical tracts not included in any former edition, and many letters official. Vol. 1 of 10. Boston, 1840. Extracts: Preface. Contents. Chapter XV, which discusses Franklin's religious beliefs.
• Jared Sparks, editor. The Works of Benjamin Franklin: containing several political and historical tracts not included in any former edition, and many letters official. Vol. 2 of 10. Boston: Hilliard, Gray and Co., 1836. Extracts from "Essays on Religious and Moral Subjects and the Economy of Life," "A Comparison of the Conduct of the Ancient Jews and of the Anti-federalists in the United States of America," "Queries and Remarks Respecting Alterations in the Constitution of Pennsylvania."
• Jared Sparks, editor. The Works of Benjamin Franklin: containing several political and historical tracts not included in any former edition, and many letters official. Vol. 5 of 10. Boston, 1837. Extracts: "Motion for Prayers in the Convention," "Speech in the Convention."
• Jared Sparks, editor. The Works of Benjamin Franklin: containing several political and historical tracts not included in any former edition, and many letters official. Vol. 7 of 10. Boston, Hillard Gray, 1838. Extracts.

  Letter to Mrs. Jane Mecom:
  "I am so far from thinking that God is not to be worshipped, that I have composed and wrote a whole book of devotions for my own use; and I imagine there are few if any in the world so weak as to imagine, that the little good we can do here can merit so vast a reward hereafter."

  Letter to George Whitefield, June 6, 1753:
  "Even the mixed, imperfect pleasures we enjoy in this world, are rather from God's goodness than our merit; how much more such happiness of heaven! For my part I have not the vanity to think I deserve it, the folly to expect it, nor the ambition to desire it; but content myself in submitting to the will and disposal of that God who made me, who has hitherto preserved and blessed me, and in whose fatherly goodness I may well confide, that he will never make me miserable; and that even the afflictions I may at any time suffer shall tend to my benefit."

  ... "The worship of God is a duty; the hearing and reading of sermons may be useful; but, if men rest in hearing and praying, as too many do, it is as if a tree should value itself on being watered and putting forth leaves, though it never produced any fruit."

  Letter to George Whitefield, June 19, 1764:
  "That Being, who gave me existence, and through almost threescore years has been continually showing his favors upon me, whose very chastisements have been blessings to me; can I doubt that he loves me? And, if he loves me, can I doubt that he will go on to take care of me, not only here but hereafter?

  Letter to Sarah Franklin, November 8, 1764:
  "Go constantly to church, whoever preaches. The act of devotion in the Common Prayer Book is your principal business there, and if properly attended to, will do more towards amending the heart than sermons generally can do. For they were composed by men of much greater piety and wisdom, than our common composers of sermons can pretend to be; and therefore I wish you would never miss the prayer days; yet I do not mean you should despise sermons, even of the preachers you dislike, for the discourse is often much better than the man, as sweet and clear waters come through very dirty earth."

• Jared Sparks, editor. The Works of Benjamin Franklin: containing several political and historical tracts not included in any former edition, and many letters official. Vol. 10 of 10. . Boston, 1836-1840. 558 pp. Extract, pp. 281-282.

  Letter to Thomas Paine:

  DEAR SIR,

  I have read your manuscript with some attention. By the argument it contains against a particular Providence, though you allow a general Providence, you strike at the foundations of all religion. For without the belief of a Providence, that takes cognizance of, guards, and guides, and may favor particular persons, there is no motive to worship a Deity, to fear his displeasure, or to pray for his protection. I will not enter into any discussion of your principles, though you seem to desire it. At present I shall only give you my opinion, that, though your reasonings are subtile and may prevail with some readers, you will not succeed so as to change the general sentiments of mankind on that subject, and the consequence of printing this piece will be, a great deal of odium drawn upon yourself, mischief to you, and no benefit to others. He that spits against the wind, spits in his own face.

  But, were you to succeed, do you imagine any good would be done by it? You yourself may find it easy to live a virtuous life, without the assistance afforded by religion; you having a clear perception of the advantages of virtue, and the disadvantages of vice, and possessing a strength of resolution sufficient to enable you to resist common temptations. But think how great a portion of mankind consists of weak and ignorant men and women, and of inexperienced, inconsiderate youth of both sexes, who have need of the motives of religion to restrain them from vice, to support their virtue, and retain them in the practice of it till it becomes habitual, which is the great point for its security. And perhaps you are indebted to her originally, that is, to your religious education, for the habits of virtue upon which you now justly value yourself. You might easily display your excellent talents of reasoning upon a less hazardous subject, and thereby obtain a rank with our most distinguished authors. For among us it is not necessary, as among the Hottentots, that a youth, to be raised into the company of men, should prove his manhood by beating his mother.

  I would advise you, therefore, not to attempt unchaining the tiger, but to burn this piece before it is seen by any other person; whereby you will save yourself a great deal of mortification by the enemies it may raise against you, and perhaps a good deal of regret and repentance. If men are so wicked with religion, what would they be if without it. I intend this letter itself as a proof of my friendship, and therefore add no professions to it; but subscribe simply yours,

  B. Franklin

• David Barton. Benjamin Franklin's Letter to Thomas Paine.
• With William Temple Franklin. The Works of Dr. Benjamin Franklin, in philosophy, politics, and morals: containing, beside all the writings published in former collections, his diplomatic correspondence, as minister of the United States, at the court of Versailles, a variety of articles, and epistolary correspondence, never before published: with memoirs and anecdotes of his life. Vol. 6 of 6. Philadelphia: William Duane, 1809. ill., map; 22 cm. Extracts.

Episcopalian. Read about Gerry here, here, here and here.

• An Address to the citizens of Massachusetts, on the approaching state elections. 1810.
• His Excellency Governor Gerry's speech, to the Legislature of Massachusetts, delivered Thursday, June 7, 1810. [Boston: s.n., 1810?] 12 pp.
• Massachusetts. Governor (1810-1812: Gerry). Commonwealth of Massachusetts. By His Excellency, Elbridge Gerry, Esq. ... A Proclamation, for a day of public thanksgiving, praise, and prayer. ... Thursday, the twenty-ninth day of November next ... Given at the Council Chamber, in Boston, this twenty-fourth day of October, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and ten. [Boston: s.n., 1810] 1 broadside. [Proclamation. 1810 Oct. 24]
• Massachusetts. Governor (1810-1812: Gerry). By His Excellency Elbridge Gerry, Governor of the commonwealth, a Proclamation, for a day of Publick Thanksgiving, praise, and prayer. [Boston: s.n., 1811] 1 broadside.
• Massachusetts. Governor (1810-1812: Gerry). Commonwealth of Massachusetts. By His Excellency Elbridge Gerry ... A Proclamation, for a day of public fasting, humiliation, and prayer. ... Thursday, the eleventh day of April next ... Given at the Council chamber, in Boston, the thirteenth day of March ... one thousand, eight hundred, and eleven. [Proclamation. 1811 Mar. 13] Also here.
• Massachusetts. Governor (1810-1812: Gerry). Commonwealth of Massachusetts. By His Excellency, Elbridge Gerry, Esq. ... A Proclamation, for a day of public thanksgiving, praise, and prayer. ... Thursday, the twenty-first of November next ... Given at the Council chamber in Boston this twenty-second day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eleven, and in the thirty-sixth year of the Independence of the United States. [Proclamation. 1811 Oct. 22]

  ... "I do hereby appoint THURSDAY, the TWENTY-FIRST of NOVEMBER next, to be a day of Public THANKSGIVING, PRAISE, and PRAYER, throughout this Commonwealth; calling on and requesting the ministers and people of every religious denomination, to meet on that day in their respective sanctuaries, that with unanimity and fervor, we may present our unfeigned praises for all the mercies we have received of our Bountiful Creator, who has continued to us the inestimable blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ, blessings not confined to time, but extended to eternity, who has confirmed to us our federal and State constitutions, which secure the enjoyment of our lives, liberties and property, who continues to bless us with a National Government and Administration, whose wisdom, virtue, and firmness have not been circumvented, corrupted or appalled by the arts, seductions, or threats of foreign or domestic foes, but whose patriotic efforts have uniformly and manifestly resulted from an ardent desire to promote the public welfare and happiness, who has not punished our ungrateful murmurs, discontents and other crimes, as He has those of distant nations, by war and its dire effects; but has preserved to us peace, the greatest of national blessings, who has favored us with a Clergy, (with few exceptions,) whose conduct, is influenced by the mild, benign and benevolent principles of the Gospel; and whose example is a constant admonition to such pastors and professors of Christianity, as are too much under the guidance of passion, prejudice, and worldly delusion, Who has enabled us from unavoidable spoliations to derive permanent benefits, by gradually diminishing our dependence on foreign markets, for necessary supplies; by rapidly increasing our manufactures thereof; and by thus preventing in future the plunder of such property by avaricious nations, who has not visited us, as He has other countries, with plague, pestilence or famine; but has kindly preserved to us a great degree of health, and crowned with plenty the labors of our industrious husbandmen, Who has increased the martial ardor and discipline of our militia, and enables us to smile at the menaces of mighty potentates, Who continues to us the due administration of justice, the full and free exercise of our civil religious rights, and the numerous blessing which have resulted from them, Who has prospered in a remarkable degree our Schools, Academies and Colleges; those inestimable sources of public information and happiness, who has protected so great a portion of the property of our merchants, when exposed to the depredations of perfidious governments, Who has granted success to our enterprising fishermen, prospered our ingenious mechanics, and loaded us with His boundless munificence." ...

  • Elbridge Gerry - 10/22/1811 Proclamation- Thanksgiving Day- 1811, Massachusetts. This is the text of a proclamation for a Day of Thanksgiving, Praise and Prayer, issued by Elbridge Gerry (Signer of the Declaration of Independence; Framer of the Bill of Rights), while he was serving as governor of Massachusetts. The proclamation was issued on October 22, 1811 and was declaring November 21, 1811 to be the day of Thanksgiving.
• Speech of His Excellency the governor of the commonwealth of Massachusetts, to both houses of the legislature: at the session commencing on the second Wednesday in January, 1812: January 10, 1812: read, and ordered to be printed. Printed at the state press, 1811. 20 pp. "When, as colonists, our charter rights were infringed, and a political connexion with Great Britain, was no longer compatible with the public safety, we united in a common cause, and determined to die or to be free. We drew the sword, and threw away the scabbard. The conflict was with a SOVEREIGN, who had injured us, too much to forgive us. The GOD of Justice commanded our armies, and crowned them with victory." Congress, placed by DIVINE PROVIDENCE on untrodden ground, attempted, at an early period, a national constitution. This was in the form of the confederation. It was a feeble chain; too feeble to preserve the Union.
• Second address of the General Committee of Correspondence, (appointed at a general meeting of the Republican members of the legislature of the state of Pennsylvania,) to the Democratic citizens of the state of Pennsylvania, on the subject of the presidential election, 1812.
• Address of the democratic young men of the city and liberties of Philadelphia. 8 pp. 1812.
• Message from His Excellency the governor, February 27, 1812. [Boston : s.n., 1812] 12 pp.
• Massachusetts. Governor (1810-1812: Gerry). Commonwealth of Massachusetts. By His Excellency, Elbridge Gerry, Esq. ... A Proclamation, for a day of public fasting, humiliation, and prayer. ... Thursday, the ninth of April next ... Given at the Council chamber in Boston the sixth day of March ... one thousand eight hundred and twelve. [Proclamation. 1812 Mar. 6] Also here.
• The Gerry-mander. A new species of monster, which appeared in Essex south district in January last.
• James Trecothick Austin. The Life of Elbridge Gerry: With contemporary letters. To the close of the American revolution. Wells and Lilly. Volume 1 of 2. 1828. Volume 2 of 2. 1829.
• Elbridge Gerry. From Lives of the signers to the Declaration of Independence, by Charles Augustus Goodrich.

Episcopalian. Delegate to U.S. Continental Congress, Georgia. Read about Gwinnett here, here and here.

• Button Gwinnett. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.
• Papers of Button Gwinnett, 1771-1774. Miscellaneous Manuscripts collection, Library of Congress.
• Last will and testament: Savannah : 1777 Mar. 15. autograph manuscript signed. United States; Georgia; Savannah. 1777-03-15 1 item (1 p.); (fol.) In: Signers of the Declaration of Independence, Series 2 vol. II, p. 318 red morocco (fol.) The MORGAN LIBRary & MUSEUM.

Congregationalist. One of the four signers (the others were William Hooper, Robert Treat Paine, and John Witherspoon) originally trained as ministers. Read about Hall here, here and here.

• Georgia. By the Honourable Lyman Hall, Esquire ... a proclamation. Whereas, in order to preserve peace, and maintain a friendly intercourse and a good understanding with the Indians of the Creek and Cherokee nations, it is necessary to avoid any encroachments upon the lands allotted to them for their hunting grounds ... Given under my hand ... at Augusta, this thirteenth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty-three. [Savannah: Printed by James Johnston, 1783. 1 sheet ([1] p.) ; 31 x 16 cm.
• Sermons. Boston: Young & Minns. 1774-1814. Locally bound volume, 24 parts. Ohio Wesleyan University. OCLC: 181368200 Contents: A sermon delivered to the First Religious Society in Roxbury, June 16, 1799. Occasioned by the death of his excellency Increase Sumner, esq. governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, who died June 7, 1799, in the 53d year of his age. Eliphalet Porter Young & Minns (1799) -- A discourse delivered at Truro on Cape-Cod, April 11th, 1786 at the interment of the Rev. Caleb Upham, pastor of the Church of Christ in that town Levi Whitman Edmund Freeman (1786) -- A sermon delivered at the church in Brattle-street, January 2, 1784 at the interment of the Rev. Samuel Cooper, D.D. who expired, December 29, 1783 John Clarke John Gill (1784) -- A sermon, delivered in the East Meeting-House, Salem, on Sunday morning, March 13: occasioned by the death of Jonathan Gardner, esq. master of the Marine Society in Salem, who died March 2, 1791, at 63 William Bentley Thomas C. Cushing (1791) -- A discourse, delivered at Dorchester, Dec. 29, 1799 being the Lord's Day after hearing the distressing intelligence of the death of General George Washington, late President of the United States, and Commander in Chief of the American Armies Thaddeus Mason Harris Samuel Etheridge (1800) -- A discourse delivered in the South Meeting-House in Andover, before his Excellency the Governor, the Honorable Council, the President of the Senate, and Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, at the funeral of His Honor Samuel Phillips, esq. late Lt. Gov. of said Commonwealth, Feb. 15, 1802 David Tappan Young and Minns (1802) -- The hope of immortality. A discourse occasioned by the death of the honorable John Winthrop, esq. LL.D. and F.R.S. Hollis Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy at Cambridge, New-England: delivered at the public lecture in Harvard College Edward Wigglesworth T. and J. Fleet (1774) -- A sermon, delivered October 22d, 1812, at the interment of the Rev. Thomas Thacher, A.M. A.A.S. minister of the third parish in Dedham; who died October 19, 1812, in the fifty-sixth year of his age, and thirty-third of his ministry Stephen Palmer J. Belcher (1812) An eulogy, on General George Washington, who died on the 14th of Dec. 1799. Pronounced at Dorchester, Feb. 22, 1800. It being the day recommended by Congress for the national lamentation of his death Oliver Everett Samuel Etheridge (1800) -- A discourse delivered in the North Dutch Church, in the city of Albany, occasioned by the ever to be lamented death of Gen. Alexander Hamilton, July 29, 1804 Eliphalet Nott Websters and Skinner (1806) -- A Thanksgiving discourse, preached at Hallowell, 15 December, 1785 William Hazlitt Samual Hall (1786) -- A sermon delivered on the day of national Thanksgiving February 19, 1795 Thomas Barnard, D.D. Thomas C. Cushing (1795) -- The wonderful works of God are to be remembered. A sermon delivered on the day of annual Thanksgiving, November 20, 1794 David Osgood Samuel Hall (1794) -- A sermon preached in Milton on the morning, and at Dorchester in the afternoon of the 9th of May, 1798; being the day recommended by the President of the United States for solemn humiliation, fasting, and prayer throughout the union Thadeus Mason Harris Samuel Etheridge (1798) -- A sermon delivered before the convention of the clergy of Massachusetts, in Boston, May 26, 1796 Jeremy Belknap Samuel Hall (1796) -- A discourse on the peace; preached on the day of public Thanksgiving, November 25, 1784 John Lathrop Peter Edes (1784) -- A discourse delivered February 19, 1795. The day set apart by the President for a General Thanksgiving through the United States David Osgood Samuel Hall (1795) -- A discourse delivered February 19, 1795. The day set apart by the President for a general Thanksgiving through the United States Samuel Hall (1795) -- A fast sermon preached at Fitchburg, July 23, 1812 Titus T. Barton Salmon Wilder (1812) -- A discourse delivered in Stoneham, (Mass.) April 7, 1814 being the day of the state fast John H. Stevens Thomas G. Bangs (1814) -- A sermon preached before his excellency James Bowdoin, esq. governour; his honour Thomas Cushing, esq. Lieutenant-Governour; the honourable the council, and the honourable the senate, and house of representatives. of the commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 30, 1787. being the day of general election Rev. Jospeh Lyman Adams and Nourse [1787] -- A sermon preached before his excellency John Hancock, esq; Governour; his honor Thomas Cushing, esq; Lieutenant-Governor; the council, and the honorable the senate, and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 29, 1782, being the day of General Election T. & J. Fleet and J. Gill [1782] -- A sermon preached before his excellency John Hancock, esq. Governour; his honor Samuel Adams, esq. Lieutenant-Governour; the honourable the council, and the honourable the Senate and House of Representatives, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 25, being the day of general election Chandler Robbins (1791) -- A sermon, preached before his excellency, James Sullivan, esq. governor; his honor, Levi Lincoln, esq. Lieutenant-Governor; the honourable council, and both branches of the legislature of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the day of general election, May 25th, 1808 Thomas Allen Adams and Rhoades [1808] -- A sermon preached before his honor the Lieutenant -Governor, the honorable the council, and the honorable the senate, and house of representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 29, 1793; being the day of general election Samuel Parker Thomas Adams (1793) -- A sermon preached before his excellency John Hancock, esq; governor; his honor Thomas Cushing, esq; lieutenant-governor; the honorable the council, and the honorable the senate, and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 26, 1784 being the day of general election Moses Hemmenway Benjamin Edes and Sons (1784).
• Lyman Hall. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.
• Lyman Hall. From Lives of the Signers to the Declaration of Independence, by Charles Augustus Goodrich.

Congregationalist. American merchant, statesman, president of the Second Continental Congress and the first and third Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Read about Hancock here, here, and here.

• The Twelve United Colonies, by their Delegates in Congress, to the Inhabitants of Great-Britain. July 31, 1775. Published in The Pennsylvania Magazine, August 1775, pp. 379-388.
• Massachusetts Provincial Congress. In Provincial Congress, Concord, April 15, 1775. Whereas it has pleased the righteous Sovereign of the Universe, in just indignation against the sins of a people ... Resolved ... that Thursday the eleventh day of May next be set apart as a day of public humiliation, fasting and prayer. Also here. Boston: Printed by Edes and Gill, 1775. 1 sheet ([1] p.); 38 x 30 cm.
  "In circumstances as dark as these, it becomes us, as Men and Christians, to reflect that whilst every prudent measure should be taken to ward off the impending judgments, 'at the same time all confidence must be withheld from the means we use; and reposed only on that God rules in the armies of Heaven, and without His whole blessing, the best human counsels are but foolishness' Resolved; "Thursday the 11th of May, to humble themselves before God under the heavy judgments felt and feared, to confess the sins that have deserved them, to implore the Forgiveness of all our transgressions, and a spirit of repentance and reformation and a Blessing on the Union of the American Colonies in Defense of their Rights [for which hitherto we desire to thank Almighty God] That the people of Great Britain and their rulers may have their eyes opened to discern the things that shall make for the peace of the nation for the redress of America's many grievances, the restoration of all her invaded liberties, and their security to the latest generations."
• Commonwealth of Massachusetts. A Proclamation for a Day of Public Thanksgiving, November 27, 1788. Proclamation dated October 29, 1788.
• Commonwealth of Massachusetts. A Proclamation for a Day of Public Thanksgiving, November 26, 1789. Proclamation dated October 14, 1789.
• Commonwealth of Massachusetts. A Proclamation for a Day of Public Thanksgiving, November 17, 1791. Proclamation dated October 5, 1791. Printed at Boston: By Thomas Adams, printer to the honorable General Court of the commonwealth of Massachusetts., 1791. 1 sheet, 1 p.: ill. (relief cut); 51 x 40 cm.

  The following Election Sermons were preached to John Hancock.

  • Adams, Zabdiel, 1739-1801. A Sermon preached before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq; governour; His Honor Thomas Cushing, Esq; lieutenant-governor; the Honorable the Council, and the Honorable the Senate, and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 29, 1782, being the day of general election/ By Zabdiel Adams, A.M. Pastor of the church in Lunenburg. [Boston] Commonwealth of Massachusetts: Printed by T. & J. Fleet and J. Gill, [1782]. 59, [1] pp.; 22 cm. (8vo) Text-searchable here.
  • Bridge, Josiah, 1739-1801. A Sermon preached before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq. governour; His Honor Benjamin Lincoln, Esq. lieutenant-governour; the Honourable the Council, Senate and House of Representatives, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 27, 1789. Being the day of general election. By Josiah Bridge, A.M. Pastor of the church in East-Sudbury. Boston: Printed by Adams & Nourse, printers to the Honourable General Court, M,DCC,LXXXIX. [1789]. 54, [2] pp.
  • Clark, Jonas, 1730-1805. A Sermon preached before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq; governor; His Honor Thomas Cushing, Esq; lieutenant-governor; the Honorable the Council, and the honorable the Senate and House of Representatives, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 30, 1781. Being the first day of general election, after the commencement of the present constitution, and inauguration of the new government. / By Jonas Clark, A.M. Pastor of the church in Lexington.; N.B. Several passages omitted in the delivery of this discourse, are now inserted Published/distributed: Boston, (Commonwealth of Massachusetts.): Printed by J. Gill, in Court-Street, and B. Edes and Sons, in State-Street, [1781]. [4], 74, [2] pp.; 21 cm. (8vo)
  • A Sermon preached before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq; governour, the Honourable the Senate, and House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, October 25, 1780. Being the day of the commencement of the Constitution, and inauguration of the new government. By Samuel Cooper, D.D. Boston: Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 1780. 59 pp.
  • Foster, Daniel, 1750?-1795. A Sermon preached before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq. governour; His Honor Samuel Adams, Esq. lieutenant-governour; the Honourable the Council, Senate, and House of Representatives, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 26, 1790: Being the day of general election. Boston, Massachusetts: Thomas Adams, printer to the Honourable, the General Court, 1790: 35, [1] p.; 22 cm.
    • Foster, Daniel, 1750?-1795. A Sermon Preached Before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq., Governour [sic]; His Honor Samuel Adams, Esq., Lieutenant-Governour; The Honourable The [sic] Council, Senate, and House of Representatives, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 26, 1790 An election sermon.
  • Hemmenway, Moses, 1735-1811. A Sermon, preached before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq; governor: His Honor Thomas Cushing, Esq; lieutenant-governor; the Honorable the Council, and the Honorable the Senate, and House of Representatives, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 26, 1784. Being the day of general election. / By Moses Hemmenway, A.M.; Some parts of this discourse, which were shortened in preaching, are here published at large. Boston, (Commonwealth of Massachusetts): Printed by Benjamin Edes and Sons, no. 42, Cornhill, M,DCC,LXXXIV. [1784]. 52 pp.; 23 cm. (8vo)
  • Parsons, David, 1749-1823. A Sermon, Preached before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq. Governour; the Honourable the Council, and the Honourable the Senate, and House of Representatives, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 28, 1788: Being the day of general election. Boston: Printed by Adams & Nourse, printers to the Honourable General Court, 1788. 46, [2] pp.; 21 cm.
    • Election Sermon (1788). Introduction by David Barton.
  • Tappan, David, 1752-1803. A Sermon preached before His Excellency John Hancock, Esq. governour; His Honor Samuel Adams, Esq. lieutenant-governour; the Honourable the Council, Senate, and House of Representatives, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, May 30, 1792, Being the day of general election. Printed in Boston, Massachusetts: At the State Press, by Thomas Adams, printer to the Honourable the General Court., 1792. 39, [1] pp.; 24 cm. (4to)

Episcopalian. Read about Harrison here, here and here.

Register of the District of Columbia Society of the American Revolution: " HON. BENJAMIN HARRISON (1726-1791), of "Berkeley," Charles City County, Virginia, Member and Speaker, Virginia House of Burgesses; Signer of Williamsburg Resolutions of 1774; Member of Virginia Conventions; Member of Continental Congress and Chairman of Continental Board of War, which directed and controlled the War of the Revolution. June 10, i776, as Chairman of a Committee of Congress, introduced the resolution that had been offered three days before, by Richard Henry Lee, declaring the Independence of the American Colonies, and on July 4, reported the Declaration of Independence, voted for and signed it; was Member of Virginia House of Delegates and Speaker until 1781, and twice elected Governor; Colonel, in command of the Militia of Charles City County, Virginia, and active and efficient against Arnold and Cornwallis when they invaded Virginia."

• CSR Documents by Harrison, Benjamin, ca. 1726-1791. University Library, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
• Benjamin Harrison. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Presbyterian, Baptist. Delegate from New Jersey. Read about Hart here, here and here.

OCLC: "John Hart lived for most of his life in Hopewell Township, New Jersey where he worked as a farmer. The exact date of his birth is unknown, although most sources cite the year as 1711. It is believed that he was born in Stonington, Connecticut and moved to Hopewell with his parents at an early age. His father, Edward Hart, worked as a Justice of the Peace, public assessor, and farmer; he was also a commander of the New Jersey Blues, a corps of volunteers that served in the French-Canadian wars. Father and son worked together to build a successful farm, which John later inherited after his father's death in 1752. In 1739, John Hart married Deborah Scudder, daughter of Lt. Richard Scudder of Scudder's Falls; together the couple had thirteen children. By 1750, he was elected Freeholder for Hunterdon County, the highest elected office in the county. John Hart was becoming a leading member of his community. In 1775, he was appointed to the local Committee of Safety, the Committee of Correspondence, and a judge to the Court of Common Pleas. The following year Hart was elected to the newly formed Provincial Congress of New Jersey, and was sent as one of five delegates to represent the state at the 2nd Continental Congress. On July 4th, he and the other four delegates from New Jersey signed the Declaration of Independence."

• J. Sanderson, editor. John Hart. Biography of the signers to the Declaration of independence. 1827. "Mr. Hart was a munificent benefactor of the Baptist church; of Hopewell township, to which he presented the ground on which the meeting house stands, and for a burial ground adjoining.-He attended with his family, regularly, on the public worship at this church until his last illness, and was always known as a sincere, but unostentatious Christian."

Episcopalian. Delegate of North Carolina. Father of the United States Navy. Read about Hewes here, here, here, and here.

• Letter to Samuel Johnston. 1776. 1 item (1 leaf) + 1 engraving. In: Hale Signers Collection. Folder 19. UNIV OF PENnSYLVANIA LIBR MANUSCripts. Hewes informs Johnston of the Congress's plan to send two Presbyterian clergymen to North Carolina to explain the nature of the dispute between the colonies and Great Britain. At this time, Joseph Hewes was a delegate from North Carolina at the Continental Congress in Philadelphia. Samuel Johnston was a North Carolina planter and lawyer who presided over the provincial congress for North Carolina.
• Collection Number: 01381-z. Collection Title: Joseph Hewes Papers, 1765-1776. Wilson Library at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
• CSR Documents by Hewes, Joseph, 1730-1779. University Library at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
• Joseph Hewes. From A Biography of the Signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Episcopalian. Delegate from South Carolina. Read about Heyward here, here, here, here, and here.

• Thomas Heyward, Jr: a South Carolina signer of the Declaration of Independence. Thomas Heyward, Jr. Chapter, NSDAR, 1978. 16 pp.

Episcopalian. Delegate from North Carolina. Read about Hooper here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

• Brief Biography and Geneology.
• William Hooper letter to James Iredell -April 26, 1774 .
• William Hooper. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Quaker. Delegate from Rhode Island. Read about Hopkins here, here and here.

The materials for Rhode Island history are more abundant than many have supposed. They are widely scattered and difficult to collect or arrange, and hence the opinion has seemed to prevail that too much was lost to render the preservation of the remainder an object of interest. But some persons have thought otherwise, and three attempts, prior to this, have been made to write the history of the State. The first was by Governor Stephen Hopkins, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, who, in 1765, commenced to publish "An Historical Account of Providence," since reprinted in the second series of Massachusetts Historical Collections, volume ix [1832, pp. 166-203. Aka Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society. First printed in the Providence Gazette, October 20, 1762 and January 12, 19, Feb. 2, 9, 16, March 16, 30, 1765. Also printed in Collections of the Rhode Island Historical Society, volume VII]. Only one chapter was completed when the struggle for independence interrupted the work, which was never resumed.

1785. "The death of the venerable patriot, Stephen Hopkins, in the seventy-ninth year of his age, took place at Providence. For nearly the whole period of his manhood, he had been engaged in public life. Chosen town clerk of Scituate, his native town, in 1731, for nearly forty-five years he was engaged in some kind of official duty connected with the town, the legislature, the judicial, or the executive departments of the State, or the national Congress. During the second Spanish war, we have seen that he was appointed with William Ellery, to consult with commissioners from other colonies upon the defence of the country, and before the "old French war" had commenced, he was chosen governor of the colony. No man in the eighteenth century filled so large a space in the history of this State, and very few, of any State, exerted so wide an influence upon the destinies of the country. Franklin was perhaps the only person who equalled him in this respect. He was probably the first man in America, certainly the first in high official position, to deny the right of the British Parliament to control the colonies. Long before the voice of James Otis roused the men of Massachusetts to the assertion of their rights, or the eloquence of Patrick Henry thrilled the Virginia burgesses with the utterance of prospective treason; more than twenty years before he and his life-long colleague affixed their names, in behalf of Rhode Island, to the Declaration of Independence; Stephen Hopkins, then uniting in himself the offices of governor and chief-justice of the colony, made use of this remarkable expression: "What have the King and Parliament to do with making a law or laws to govern us by, any more than the Mohawks have? And if the Mohawks should make a law or laws to govern us, we are as much obliged to obey them as any law or laws the King and Parliament could make;" and "That as our forefathers came from Leyden, and were no charge to England, the States of Holland had as good a right to claim us as England had." ¹ These sentiments were a direct corollary from the spirit of the free charter of Rhode Island, and were sustained by their author, in all his public and private acts, to the close of his eventful life." pp. 514-515. ¹ These expressions are contained in the deposition of Job Almy, of Tiverton, in the famous libel suit of Hopkins v. Ward, tried in Worcester county, Mass., June, 1757, and were uttered in conversation with Almy upon a case in which he was plaintiff, and recovered, before the Superior Court at Newport in March, 1756. A report of the libel suit is given in the Monthly Law Reporter for October, 1859, Vol. 22, pp. 327-39. On page 338, Almy's deposition is cited in full.

"The disgraceful and cruel outrages and murders committed by the savages of the French army, after the surrender of fort William Henry, notwithstanding the personal protection to which the garrison was entitled, produced great excitement throughout the colonies, in which the inhabitants of Rhode Island largely participated. Mr. Hopkins rendered himself peculiarly active and conspicuous on the occasion, and his signature stands first recorded on the following agreement, entered into the fifteenth of August, 1757:

"Whereas the British colonies in America are invaded by a large army of French and Indian enemies, who have already possessed themselves of Fort William Henry, and are now on their march to penetrate farther into the country, and from whom we have nothing to expect, should they succeed in their enterprise, but death and devastation-, and, as his majesty's principal officers in the parts invaded, have, in the most pressing and moving manner, called on all his majesty's faithful subjects, for assistance to defend the country; - Therefore, We, whose names are underwritten, thinking it our duty to do everything in our power for the defence of our liberties, families, and property, are willing, and have agreed, to enter voluntarily into the service of our country, and go, in a warlike manner, against the common enemy; and hereby call upon, and invite, all our neighbours who have families and property to defend, to join with us in this undertaking, promising to march as soon as we are two hundred and fifty in number, recommending ourselves and our cause, to the favourable protection of Almighty God.' --pp. 240-241.

• The Planting and Growth of Providence. Philadelphia Gazette, n. 1, October 20, 1762. pp. 1-2.
• An Historical Account of the Planting and Growth of Providence, Philadelphia Gazette, January 12, 1765, n. 117, p. 1.
• An Historical Account of the Planting and Growth of Providence, interspersed with many interesting Particulars respecting the Origin, &c. of the neighbouring Colonies, and adjacent Towns, continued from No. 117. Philadelphia Gazette, n. 118, January 19, 1765, p. 1.
• An Historical Account of the Planting and Growth of Providence, interspersed with many interesting Particulars respecting the Origin, &c. of the neighbouring Colonies, and adjacent Towns, continued from our last, No. 118. Philadelphia Gazette, February 2, 1765, n. 120, p. 1.
• An Historical Account of the Planting and Growth of Providence, interspersed with many interesting Particulars respecting the Origin, &c. of the neighbouring Colonies, and adjacent Towns, continued from our last, No. 120. Philadelphia Gazette, February 9, 1765, p. 1.
• An Historical Account of the Planting and Growth of Providence, interspersed with many interesting Particulars respecting the Origin, &c. of the neighbouring Colonies, and adjacent Towns, continued from our last, No. 121. Philadelphia Gazette, February 16, 1765, n. 122, p. 1.
• An Historical Account of the Planting and Growth of Providence, interspersed with many interesting Particulars respecting the Origin, &c. of the neighbouring Colonies, and adjacent Towns, continued from our last, No. 122. Philadelphia Gazette, n. 126, March 16, 1765, p. 1.
• An Historical Account of the Planting and Growth of Providence, interspersed with many interesting Particulars respecting the Origin, &c. of the neighbouring Colonies, and adjacent Towns, continued from No. 126. Philadelphia Gazette, n. 128, March 30, 1765, p. 1.

• A Proclamation. Philadelphia Gazette, August 13, 1763, p. 1.
  The Burdens and Calamities of a cruel and expensive War, having been happily terminated by a just and glorious Peace, the King hath judge it proper, that a PUBLIC THANKSGIVING to Almighty GOD, should be observed throughout all His Colonies in America; and hath accordingly signified His Royal Will and Pleasure.
  THEREFORE, in Obedience to the King's Command, and the Order of the General Assembly, made conformable thereto, I DO hereby order, that Thursday the Twenty-fifth Day of the present Month, be observed and kept as a Day of PUBLIC THANKSGIVING, in and throughout this Colony: Calling upon and requiring all Christians, of every Donomination, to assemble themselves together, on said Day, at the usual Places of their meeting for public Worship; and with Hearts willed with Gratitude, and Consciences void of Offence, to render sincere Thanks, and public Praises to Almighty GOD, for granting us all the Blessings of a safe and honorable Peace: And for the other innumerable Instances of His Goodness towards us. And I DO also hereby structly forbid and prohibit all servile Labor, and all Sports and Pastimes to be used or practissed on said Day, as all who offend herein, shall answer their Contempt at their Peril."

Episcopalian. First American composer, was also a literary satirist, jurist, and inventor. In 1777 he designed the American flag. Read about Hopkinson here, here, here, here, and here. Dictionary of American Biography. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1936. Gale Biography In Context: He was an active churchman and in 1789 served as secretary of the convention that organized the Protestant Episcopal Church.

• Account of the grand federal procession, Philadelphia, July 4, 1788. To which are added, Mr. Wilson's oration, and a letter on the subject of the procession. (Price 5d. h.). [2], 22 p. 20 cm. (8vo)
  The Clergy formed a very agreeable part of the procession.-They manifested, by their attendance, their sense of the connexion between religion and good government. They amounted to seventeen in number. Four and five of them marched arm in arm with each other, to exemplify the Union. Pains were taken to connect Ministers of the most dissimilar religious principles together, thereby to show the influence of a free government in promoting Christian charity. The Rabbi of the Jews, locked in the arms of two ministers of the gospel, was a most delightful sight. There could not have been a more happy emblem contrived, of that section of the new constitution, which opens all its power and offices alike, not only to every sect of Christians, but to worthy men of every religion."
  ... It would be ungrateful not to observe, that there have been less equivocal signs in the course of the formation and establishment of this government, of heaven having favoured the federal side of the question. The union of twelve states in the form and of ten states in the adoption of the Constitution, in less than ten months, under the influence of local prejudices, opposite interests, popular arts, and even the threats of bold and desperate men, is a solitary event in the history of mankind. I do not believe that the Constitution was the offspring of inspiration, but I am as perfectly satisfied, that the union of the states, in its form and adoption, is as much the work of a Divine Providence, as any of the miracles recorded in the Old and New Testament, were the effects of a divine power.
• A Second edition, (with necessary improvements, which now render the sense entirely plain) of The lawfulness, excellency and advantage of instrumental music, in the public worship of God, but chiefly of organs. [Two lines of quotations]. Philadelphia, 1763.
• Four Dissertations, on the reciprocal advantages of a perpetual union between Great-Britain and her American colonies. Written for Mr. Sargent's prize-medal. To which (by desire) is prefixed, an eulogium, spoken on the delivery of the medal at the public commencement in th College of Philadelphia, May 20th, 1766. Philadelphia, M,DCC,LXVI. [1766].

  "WHEN I review the history of the world; and look on the progress of Knowledge, Freedom, Arts and Sciences, I cannot but be strongly persuaded that Heaven has yet glorious purpofes to serve thro' America.
  "CIVIL Liberty, the Protestant Religion, the principles of Toleration, in their purity, honorable as they are to human nature, subsist but in few places of the globe; and Great Britain is their principal residence.
  "UNDER her auspices they were transplanted into America; where they have got firm root, and are flourishing into immense growth and will bring such an accession of strength to the general cause of Liberty and Protestantism, that we trust no power on earth shall ever be able to prevail against their united strength."
  See pages 14-18 for Oration by James Wilson.

• G. E. Hastings, 1878-1942. The Life and Works of Francis Hopkinson. Chicago, Ill., University of Chicago Press, 1926. xi, 516 pp. illus. 23 cm.

Congregationalist. Delegate from Connecticut. Read about Huntington here.

Lossing, p. 55: "Governor Huntington lived the life of the irreproachable and sincere Christian, and those to which (by desire) is prefixed, an eulogium, spoken on the delivery of the medal at the public commencement in th College of Philadelphia, May 20th, 1766. Philadelphia, M,DCC,LXVI. [1766]. ho knew him most intimately, loved him the most affectionately, He was a thoughtful man, and talked but little - the expression of his mind and heart was put forth in his actions. He seemed to have a natural timidity, or modesty, which some mistook for the reserve of haughtiness, yet with those with whom he was familiar, he was free and winning in his manners. Investigation was a prominent characteristic of his mind, and when this faculty led him to a conclusion, it was difficult to turn him from the path of his determination. Hence as a devoted Christian and a true patriot, he never swerved from duty, or looked back after he had placed his hand to the work."

• Connecticut. Governor (1769-1784: Trumbull). Proclamation. Connecticut: s.n., 1780. 1 sheet. Ascribed to the press of Timothy Green of New London by Evans, but not listed in H.A. Johnson's Checklist of New London imprints.
  Whereas it hath pleased Almighty God the Father of all mercies, amidst the viciffitudes and calamities of War, to bestow Blessings on the People of these States which call for their devout and thankful Acknowledgments; more especially in the late remarkable Interposition of his watchful Providence, in rescuing the Person of our Commander in Chief and the Army from imminent Dangers, at the Moment when Treason was ripened for execution; in prospering the Labours of the Husbandmen, and causing the Earth to yield its Increase in plentiful Harvests; and above all in continuing to us the Enjoyment of the Gospel of Peace.
  It is therefore recommended to the several states to set apart Thursday the Seventh Day of December next to be observed as a Day of public Thanksgiving and Prayer--That all the People may assemble on that Day, to celebrate the Praises of our Divine Benefactor--to confess our unworthiness of the least of his Favours, and to offer our fervent Supplications to the God of all Grace--That it may please him to pardon our heinous Transgressions and incline our Heats for the future to keep all his Laws--To comfort and relieve our Brethren who are in any wise afflicted or distressed--To smile upon our Husbandry and Trade--To direct our public Councils, and lead our Forces by Land and Sea to victory--To take our Illustrious Ally under his special Protection, and favour our joint Councils and Exertions for the Establishment of speedy and permanent Peace--To cherish all Schools and Seminaries of Education, and to cause the Knowledge of Christianity to spread over all the Earth.
  Done in Congress, this eighteenth day of October, 1780, and in the fifth Year of the Independence of the United States of America. Signed: Samuel Huntington, president. Attest, Charles Thomson, see'ry [sic]./
  Followed by:
  By His Excellency Jonathan Trumbull, Esquire, governor, captain-general and commander in chief in and over the state of Connecticut, in America. I have thought fit, by and with the Advice of the Council, and at the rEquest of the House of Representatives, to appoint, and do hereby appoint Thursday the seventh day of December next, to be observed as a Day of public Thanksgiving and Prayer throughout this State, hereby exhorting all, both Ministers and People, religiuosly to observe the same, in Conformity to the foregoing Proclamation issued by the Honorable Congress of the United States of America.
  All servile Labour is forbidden on said Day.
  Given under my hand, in the Council chamber at Hartford, this second day of November, 1780, in the Fifth Year of the Independence of the United States of America. Jonathan Trumbull.

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington) By His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esq. Governor and commander in chief of the state of Connecticut. A Proclamation: ... Thursday, the 17th of April next, to be religiously observed as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer ... Given at Norwich, the 21st day of March, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, seven hundred and eighty-eight. New-London [Conn.]: Printed by Timothy Green, M,DCC,LXXX,VIII. [1788]. 1 sheet; 41 x 27 cm.

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington) By His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esquire ... A Proclamation: ... Wednesday the twenty-second day of April next, to be observed as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer ... Given at Norwich, the 28th day of March ... 1789. Hartford: Printed by Hudson and Goodwin, [1789]. 1 sheet: ill. (relief cut)

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington) By His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esquire ... A Proclamation: ... Thursday the thirty-first day of March instant, to be observed as a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer ... Done at the council-chamber in Hartford, the ninth day of March ... 1791. Hartford: Printed by Hudson and Goodwin, [1791]. 1 sheet: ill. (relief cut)

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington) By His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esquire ... A Proclamation: ... Thursday the twelfth day of April next, to be observed as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer ... Given at Norwich, the ninth day of March ... 1792. Hartford : Printed by Hudson and Goodwin, [1792]. 1 sheet: ill. (relief cut)

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington) By His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esquire ... A Proclamation: ... Wednesday, the seventeenth day of April next, to be observed as a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer ... Given at Norwich, the eleventh day of March, A.D. 1793. Hartford: Printed by Hudson and Goodwin, [1793]. 1 sheet: ill. (relief cut)

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington) By His Excellency Samuel Huntington Esquire. Governor and commander in chief of the state of Connecticut. A Proclamation: ... Wednesday the ninth day of April next, to be religiously observed as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer ... Given at the Council chamber in Hartford, the 12th day of March ... 1794. [New Haven? : Printed by T. & S. Green?, 1794]. 1 sheet.

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington) By His Excellency Samuel Huntington Esquire. Governor and commander in chief of the state of Connecticut. A Proclamation: Friday, the third day of April next, to be observed as a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer ... Given at Norwich, the 10th day of March ... 1795. [New Haven?: Printed by T. & S. Green?, 1795]. 1 sheet.

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington). By His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esquire ... A Proclamation. ... Thursday, the twenty-third day of November next, to be religiously observed as a day of Thanksgiving ... Given under my hand, in the council chamber at New-Haven, the twenty-seventh day of October, Anno Domini 1786 New-Haven: Printed by Meigs & Dana, [1786]. 1 sheet. ill. (relief cut)

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington). By His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esquire ... A Proclamation. ... Thursday the fifteenth day of November next to be religiously observed as a day of Publick Thanksgiving ... Given at the council chamber in New-Haven, the twenty second day of October ... 1787. New-Haven: Printed by Daniel Bowen, [1787]. 1 sheet.

• Elizur Goodrich, 1734-1797. The Principles of civil union and happiness considered and recommended. A Sermon, preached before His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esq. L.L.D. governor and commander in chief, and the Honorable the General Assembly of the state of Connecticut. Convened at Hartford, on the day of the anniversary election, May 10th, 1787. Hartford: Printed by Hudson and Goodwin, 1787. 58, [2] pp.; 21 cm. (12mo)

• Connecticut. Governor (1786-1796: Huntington). By His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esquire; governor and commander in chief, in and over the state of Connecticut, in America. A Proclamation. New-Haven: Printed by Thomas and Samuel Green, [1788]. 1 sheet.
  Considering the great and manifold favors, which it pleased Almighty God, the Father of Mercies, to bestow upon the inhabitants of this Land, and the people of this State in the course of the current year, which demand our sincere and grateful Acknowledgment:
  I Have thought fit, by, and with the advice of the Council, and at the desire of the Representatives, in General Court assembled, to appoint, and do hereby appoint, Thursday the twenty-seventh day of November next, to be religiously observed as a day of Publick Thanksgiving throughout this State; earnestly exhorting ministers and people of all Denominations, with becoming devotion, to assemble for divine and social worship; and with grateful hearts, to acknowledge the divine goodness in the great and distinguishing Favors and blessings bestowed upon these United States, and the people of this State in particular: For the continuation of the inestimable privileges of the Gospel and means of Grace, the blessings of Peace, and for the general health enjoyed; the supplies of the fruits of the Earth, notwithstanding the harvests are in some measure diminished; and for all other innumerable favors and unmerited mercies conferred upon us from the fountain of all goodness: Also to offer up fervent supplication and prayer to Almighty God, the supreme Governor of the Universe, and ruler of the Kingdoms of Men, that it may graciously please him, to shower divine blessings upon the people of these Untied States; disposing them in a yet unexampled manner, to unite in voluntarily forming a salutary Constitution, which shall best fulfill the purposes of Civil Government, by securing the unalienable Rights of Individuals, and removing Oppression far from them, and in promoting the prosperity and permanent happiness of the Union: Inspire all in civil Administration with wisdom and Integrity: Abundantly bless the inhabitants of this State: Succeed a preached Gospel and the means of Grace, and cause pure religion to flourish: Grant us health in all our dwellings: Continue peace; make our land a quiet habitation and refuge for the oppressed; caused the Earth to yield her increase, and bless us in all our interests and concerns: Extend his mercies to all Mankind: Dispose the Nations of the Earth to universal peace, and put a period to the calamities of war; and cause the world to be filled with the Knowledge and Glory of God. And all servile Labor is forbidden on said day.
  Given at the Council chamber at New-Haven, the thirteenth day of October in the Thirteenth Year of the independence of the United States of America, Annoque Domini, 1788.
  • Samuel Huntington - 10/03/1788 Proclamation - Thanksgiving Day - 1788, Connecticut. This is the text of the October 13, 1788 Samuel Huntington Day of Thanksgiving Proclamation, as he served as Governor of Connecticut; as printed in The New-Haven Gazette, and the Connecticut Magazine on October 23, 1788.

• To George Washington. Letter exchange between Samuel Huntington and George Washington. The Connecticut Courant and Weekly Intelligencer, October 26, 1789, p. 2.
• Nathan Strong, 1748-1816. A Sermon, delivered in presence of His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esq. L.L.D. governor, and the Honorable the General Assembly of the state of Connecticut, convened at Hartford, on the day of the anniversary election. May 13th, 1790. Hartford: Printed by Hudson and Goodwin., 1790. 32 pp.; 21 cm. (4to)
• By His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esquire, A Proclamation. The Connecticut Courant, March 14, 1791, p. 3.
• A Sermon, preached before His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esq. L.L.D. governor, and the Honorable the General Assembly of the state of Connecticut, convened at Hartford, on the day of the anniversary election. May 10th, 1792. By Timothy Stone, A.M. Pastor of a church in Lebanon. 35, [1] p. 20 cm. (8vo).
• Charles Backus, 1749-1803. A Sermon, preached before His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esq. L.L. D. governor, and the Honorable the General Assembly of the state of Connecticut, convened at Hartford, on the day of the anniversary election. May 9th, 1793. By Charles Backus, A.M. Pastor of a church in Somers. 1793. 38, [2] pp. 20 cm. (8vo)
• Jonathan Edwards, 1745-1801. The necessity of the belief of Christianity by the citizens of the state, in order to our political prosperity; illustrated in a sermon, preached before His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esq. L.L.D. Governor, and the Honorable the General Assembly of the state of Connecticut, convened at Hartford on the day of the anniversary election. May 8th, 1794. By Jonathan Edwards, D.D. Pastor of a church in New-Haven. 47, [1] pp. 20 cm. (8vo)
• Andrew Lee, 1745-1832. The origin and ends of civil government: with reflections on the distinguished happiness of the United States: A sermon, preached before His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esq. L.L.D. governor, and the Honorable General Assembly of the state of Connecticut, at Hartford, on the day of the anniversary election, May 14, 1795. / By Andrew Lee, A.M. Pastor of the North Church in Lisbon Hartford: Printed by Hudson and Goodwin, MDCCXCV. [1795]. 38, [2] pp.; 24 cm. (8vo)
• Joseph Strong, 1753-1834. A Sermon, delivered at the funeral of His Excellency Samuel Huntington, governor of the state of Connecticut; who died January 5th, 1796. By Joseph Strong, Pastor of the First Church in Norwich. Hartford, M.DCC.XCVI. [1796]. 19, [1] pp. 19 cm. (8vo)
• Samuel Huntington. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Episcopalian, Unitarian. A Founding Father of the United States. Principal author of the Declaration of Independence. Third American President. Horticulturist, statesman, architect, archaeologist, inventor, and founder of the University of Virginia. Read about President Jefferson here.

William Stevens Perry, Bishop of Iowa: "The author of the Declaration itself, Thomas Jefferson of Virginia, although in his later life regarded as an 'infidel,' and certainly holding and advocating at times views quite inconsistent with those accepted by any Christian body, served a s a vestryman in his early days and was by birth and baptism connected with the Church. To the very last of life he was a regular attendant at Church and must be classed, in view of his baptism, family associations, and life-long attendance on the services of the Church, as, at least, a nominal Churchman. His Prayer-Book, used in Church in his latest years, is still preserved, and the columns of a leading Church paper, a few years ago, contained full attestations of the statements we have made." The Faith of The Signers of the Declaration of Independence. Tarrytown, N.Y., William Abbatt, 1926.

• "First Inaugural Address" (March 4, 1801).
  Friends and Fellow Citizens:
  ... Let us, then, with courage and confidence pursue our own Federal and Republican principles, our attachment to union and representative government. Kindly separated by nature and a wide ocean from the exterminating havoc of one quarter of the globe; too high-minded to endure the degradations of the others; possessing a chosen country, with room enough for our descendants to the thousandth and thousandth generation; entertaining a due sense of our equal right to the use of our own faculties, to the acquisitions of our own industry, to honor and confidence from our fellow-citizens, resulting not from birth, but from our actions and their sense of them; enlightened by a benign religion, professed, indeed, and practiced in various forms, yet all of them inculcating honesty, truth, temperance, gratitude, and the love of man; acknowledging and adoring an overruling Providence, which by all its dispensations proves that it delights in the happiness of man here and his greater happiness hereafter -- with all these blessings, what more is necessary to make us a happy and a prosperous people? Still one thing more, fellow-citizens -- a wise and frugal Government, which shall restrain men from injuring one another, shall leave them otherwise free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned. This is the sum of good government, and this is necessary to close the circle of our felicities.
  ... Relying, then, on the patronage of your good will, I advance with obedience to the work, ready to retire from it whenever you become sensible how much better choice it is in your power to make. And may that Infinite Power which rules the destinies of the universe lead our councils to what is best, and give them a favorable issue for your peace and prosperity.
• Thomas Jefferson to John Carroll, September 3, 1801. The Thomas Jefferson Papers Series 1. General Correspondence. 1651-1827.
• Thomas Jefferson to Benjamin Rush, April 21, 1803, with Syllabus of an Estimate of the Merit of the Doctrines of Jesus , with Copies; Partial Transcription Available here. "The Thomas Jefferson Papers Series 1. General Correspondence. 1651-1827", Library of Congress. The Works of Thomas Jefferson in Twelve Volumes. Federal Edition. Collected and Edited by Paul Leicester Ford.

  "Dear Sir, In some of the delightful conversations with you, in the evenings of 1798-99, and which served as an anodyne to the afflictions of the crisis through which our country was then laboring, the Christian religion was sometimes our topic; and I then promised you, that one day or other, I would give you my views of it. They are the result of a life of inquiry & reflection, and very different from that anti-Christian system imputed to me by those who know nothing of my opinions. To the corruptions of Christianity I am indeed opposed; but not to the genuine precepts of Jesus himself. I am a Christian, in the only sense he wished any one to be; sincerely attached to his doctrines, in preference to all others."

• "Second Inaugural Address" (March 4, 1805).
  ...In matters of religion, I have considered that its free exercise is placed by the constitution independent of the powers of the general government. I have therefore undertaken, on no occasion, to prescribe the religious exercises suited to it; but have left them, as the constitution found them, under the direction and discipline of state or church authorities acknowledged by the several religious societies.
  ...I shall now enter on the duties to which my fellow citizens have again called me, and shall proceed in the spirit of those principles which they have approved. I fear not that any motives of interest may lead me astray; I am sensible of no passion which could seduce me knowingly from the path of justice; but the weakness of human nature, and the limits of my own understanding, will produce errors of judgment sometimes injurious to your interests. I shall need, therefore, all the indulgence I have heretofore experienced -- the want of it will certainly not lessen with increasing years. I shall need, too, the favor of that Being in whose hands we are, who led our forefathers, as Israel of old, from their native land, and planted them in a country flowing with all the necessaries and comforts of life; who has covered our infancy with his providence, and our riper years with his wisdom and power; and to whose goodness I ask you to join with me in supplications, that he will so enlighten the minds of your servants, guide their councils, and prosper their measures, that whatsoever they do, shall result in your good, and shall secure to you the peace, friendship, and approbation of all nations.
• The Writings of Thomas Jefferson: being his autobiography, correspondence, reports, messages, addresses, and other writings, official and private. Volume 1 of 9. Washington, D.C, 1853-1854. Extract.
  • Samuel Dunn Parker. Report of the arguments of the attorney of the commonwealth, at the trials of Abner Kneeland, for blasphemy in the Municipal and Supreme courts, in Boston, January and May, 1834. [Boston]: Printed by Beals, Homer & Co., 1834. 93 pp.; 25 cm. Also here. Parker's rebuttal argument includes a refutation of President Jefferson's contention that Christianity is not a part of the common law. See also Jasper Adams's Sermon and response from Justice Joseph Story.
    • John Ayliffe, 1676-1732. Parergon juris canonici anglicani: or, a commentary, by way of supplement to the canons and constitutions of the Church of England. Not only from the Books of the Canon and Civil Law, but likewise from the Statute and Common Law of this Realm. Whereunto is prefix'd, by way of Introduction, First, A brief Account of the Canon Law in general; how and from whence it had its Rise and Beginning in the Church; and how it advanced itself, by the Subtlety of the Romish Clergy, after the Seat of the Roman Empire was removed to Constantinople, and Barbarism had invaded the Politer Nations of Europe. Secondly, The Reader has also here a Particular of the Books wherein this Law was written: With the several Authors Names, the respective Times wherein they compiled them, and the best Commentators thereon: With many other Curious and Historical Remarks on this Law, &c. By John Ayliffe, L. L. D. And late Fellow of New College in Oxon. The second edition. London, M.DCC.XXXIV. [1734]. 653 pp. Also here.
    • John Ayliffe, 1676-1732. A New Pandect of Roman civil law, as anciently established in that empire; and now received and practised in most European nations: with Many useful Observations thereon; shewing, Wherein that Law differs from the Municipal Laws of Great-Britain, from the Canon Law in general, and from that Part of it now in Use here with us in England. Whereunto is prefix'd, By Way of Introduction, A Preliminary Discourse, touching the Rise and Progress of the Civil Law, from the most early Times of the Roman Empire: Wherein is also comprized a particular Account of the Books themselves containing this Law, the Names of the Authors and Compilers of them, the several Editions, and the best Commentators thereon. By John Ayliffe, LL. D. late Fellow of New College, Oxon. London, M.DCC.XXXIV. [1734]. 713 pp.
  • Jasper Adams. The Relation of Christianity to Civil Government in the United States: A Sermon, preached in St. Michael's Church, Charleston, February 13th, 1833, before the convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church of the Diocese of South-Carolina / by J. Adams. 2nd edition. Charleston: A.E. Miller, 1833. 64 pp.; 24 cm.
  • Joseph Story. Art. V--Christianity a Part of the Common Law. From The American Jurist and Law Magazine, April 1833, Volume 9, pp. 346-349. Also here. A response to Thomas Jefferson's claim that Christianity is not a part of the common law.
  • Quarterly Christian Spectator. Article I--The Doctrine of a Particular Providence, and Article II--Is Christianity a Part of the Common-Law of England?. From The Quarterly Christian Spectator, Volume 8, n. 1, March 1836.
  Great Britain. 1783 Definitive Treaty of Peace. Concluded September 3, 1783; Ratified by the Continental Congress January 14, 1784; Proclaimed January 14, 1784. Signed by D. Hartley, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and John Jay.
  Also presented here and in its original handwritten form. Treaty begins, "In the name of the Most Holy and Undivided Trinity."
  
• The Writings of Thomas Jefferson: being his autobiography, correspondence, reports, messages, addresses, and other writings, official and private. Volume 2 of 9. Washington, D.C, 1853-1854. Extract.
• The Writings of Thomas Jefferson: being his autobiography, correspondence, reports, messages, addresses, and other writings, official and private. Volume 7 of 9. Washington, D.C, 1853-1854. 663 pp. Extract. Letter to Ezra Styles, June 25, 1819.
• The Writings of Thomas Jefferson: being his autobiography, correspondence, reports, messages, addresses, and other writings, official and private. Volume 10. Published by G.P.Putnam and sons, 1899. Letter to Albert Gallatin. Monticello, June 16, 1817.
  "Three of our papers have presented us the copy of an act of the legislature of New York, which, if it has really passed, will carry us back to the times of the darkest bigotry and barbarism, to find a parallel. Its purport is, that all those who shall hereafter join in communion with the religious sect of Shaking Quakers, shall be deemed civilly dead, their marriages dissolved, and all their children and property taken out of their hands. This act being published nakedly in the papers, without the usual signatures, or any history of the circumstances of its passage, I am not without a hope it may have been a mere abortive attempt. It contrasts singularly with a cotemporary vote of the Pennsylvania legislature, who, on a proposition to make the belief in God a necessary qualification for office, rejected it by a great majority, although assuredly there was not a single atheist in their body. And you remember to have heard, that when the act for religious freedom was before the Virginia Assembly, a motion to insert the name of Jesus Christ before the phrase, 'the author of our holy religion,' which stood in the bill, was rejected, although that was the creed of a great majority of them."
  Also here.
• President Calvin Coolidge. Presidential speech in Philadelphia commemorating the 150th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, July 5, 1926.
  ... "While the written word was the foundation, it is apparent that the spoken word was the vehicle for convincing the people. This came with great force and wide range from the successors of Hooker and Wise. It was carried on with a missionary spirit which did not fail to reach the Scotch-Irish of North Carolina, showing its influence by significantly making that Colony the first to give instructions to its delegates looking to independence. This preaching reached the neighborhood of Thomas Jefferson, who acknowledged that his "best ideas of democracy" had been secured at church meetings."
  Disclaimer: The claim about Jefferson's inspiration was reported in earlier sources, listed below. Verification of this claim, if true, is elusive. On the other hand, no record has been found of anyone disputing this claim at the time of publication. For details, see this essay at Monticello.org.
  
  • A Friend. (Identified as Dr. Fishbeck of Lawrence, KY by Quarterly Christian Spectator, September 1, 1831. Anecdote of Mr. Jefferson. Christian Watchman (1819-1848). Boston: July 14, 1826. Vol. 7, Iss. 32; p. 131.
    "The following circumstances, which occurred in the State of Virginia, relative to Mr. JEFFERSON, were detailed to me by Elder ANDREW TRIBBLE, about six years ago, who since died when ninety-two or three years old. The facts may interest some of your readers--
    "Andrew Tribble was the Pastor of a small Baptist Church, which held its monthly meetings at a short distance from Mr. Jefferson's house, eight or ten years before the American Revolution. Mr. Jefferson attended the meeting of the Church for several months in succession, and after one of these, asked Elder Tribble to go home and dine with him, with which request he complied.
    "Mr. Tribble asked Mr. Jefferson how he was pleased with their Church Government? Mr. Jefferson replied, that it had struck him with great force, and had interested him much; that he considered it as the only form of pure democracy that then existed in the world; and had concluded that it would be the best plan of Government for the American Colonies. This was several years before the declaration of American Independence. To what extent this practical exhibition of religious liberty and equality operated on Mr. Jefferson's mind, in forming his views and principles of religious and civil freedom, which were afterwards so ably exhibited, I will not say."
    Account reprinted in Christian Secretary, July 24, 1826, Daily National Journal, August 4, 1826 and New York Evangelist, August 15, 1835.
  • A Friend. Anecdote of Mr. Jefferson. Christian Secretary (1822-1889). Hartford: July 24, 1826. Vol. 3, Iss. 26; p. 102.
    
  • Untitled. Daily National Journal, August 4, 1826.
    "A writer in the Christian Watchman relates the following anecdote of Mr. Jefferson. He says that the circumstances were detailed to him by Elder Andrew Tribble, about six years ago, who since died when ninety-two or three years old.
    
  • ART. II.--REVIEW OF HAWES' TRIBUTE TO THE MEMORY OF THE PILGRIMS; A Tribute to the Memory of the Pilgrims, and a vindication of the congregational churches of New-England. Quarterly Christian Spectator, (1829-1838). New Haven: September 1, 1831. Vol. 3, Iss. 3; pp. 358-393.
    
  • Congregationalism; Additional Remarks--1835. New York Evangelist, New York: August 15, 1835. Vol. 6, Iss. 33; p. 0_1.
    
  • ARTICLE IV; ADVANTAGES OF THE BAPTIST CHURCH POLITY, An Historical Discourse, delivered at the celebration of the Second Centennial Anniversary of the First Baptist Church in Providence. The Christian Review (1836-1863), Boston: May 1, 1846. Vol. 11, Iss. 41; pp. 64-87.
    
  • Joseph Sylvester Clark. A Historical Sketch of the Congregational Churches in Massachusetts. Congregational Board of Publication, 1858. 344 pp.
    Page 120: "If Thomas Jefferson confessed himself indebted to the business meetings of a Baptist church in his neighborhood which he occasionally attended, for some of his best ideas of a democratic government, much more were John Adams and his New England compatriots beholden to their ecclesiastical surroundings for the republican tendencies of their politics."
    
  • Punchard's "View." "Advantages of Congregationalism." Vermont Chronicle, v. 15, n. 38, September 16, 1840, p. 1, columns 2-3. Note: "Several years before the American revolution, there was, near the house of Mr. Jefferson, in Virginia, a church which was governed on Congregational principles, and whose monthly meetings he often attended. Being asked, how he was pleased with the church government, he replied that it had struck him with great force, and interested him very much; that he considered it the only form of pure democracy that then existed in the world, and had concluded that it would be the best plan of government for the American colonies." See an able article on Congregationalism in Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge.
  • William Goodell. "Answer to Mr. Adams." (John Quincy Adams). Published in The Liberator, July 12, 1839. Boston.
    "If Thomas Jefferson doubted the superhuman origin of the Christian faith, he nevertheless did honor to its ethics. He acknowledged that he derived his first hint of a just government from the discipline of a Christian church, of the Baptist sect, in his neighborhood, whose polity was similar to that of the New England Puritans. It was by Thomas Jefferson, and in an atmosphere such as has been described, that the Declaration of Independence was written."
    
• Jefferson's notes on the state of Virginia; with the appendixes--complete. To which is subjoined, a sublime and argumentative dissertation on Mr. Jefferson's religious principles. Baltimore, 1800. 1787 edition.
  • Jefferson's notes on the state of Virginia; with the appendixes--complete. To which is subjoined, a sublime and argumentative dissertation on Mr. Jefferson's religious principles. Baltimore, 1800.
• Samuel Knox, 1755 or 6-1832. A Vindication of the Religion of Mr. Jefferson, and a statement of his services in the cause of religious liberty. By a friend to real religion. Baltimore: printed for the editor of the American, by W. Pechin, [1800]. 21,[3]pp.
• A Test of the Religious Principles of Mr. Jefferson. [Two lines from Washington]. Philadelphia: Bioren, 1800. [2], ii, 10 pp. 17 cm. (12mo)
  • A Test of the religious principles of Mr. Jefferson: [Two lines from Washington]. Philadelphia: Printed by John Bioren, for Robert T. Rawle, no. 50, North 2d St., 1800. [i.e., Suffield, Conn.?: Printed by Edward Gray?, 1800] [2], ii, 10 pp.; 17 cm. (12mo).
• William Linn, 1752-1808. Serious Considerations on the Election of a President: Addressed to the citizens of the United States. Trenton: Printed by Sherman, Mershon & Thomas, M,DCC. [1800]. 31, [1] pp.; 21 cm. (8vo)
• John C. (John Church) Hamilton. History of the Republic of the United States of America: as traced in the writings of Alexander Hamilton and of his contemporaries. Volume 4. New York, 1857-64. 582 pp. 7 vols. Extract, Chapter 60.
• Henry Stephens Randall. The Life of Thomas Jefferson, vol. 1 of 3. New York: Derby and Jackson, 1858. 678 pp. Preface and Chapter 12: 1787.
  "We will attempt to show, by as satisfactory proof as the nature of the case admits of -- as nearly as a negative can ever be shown -- that Mr. Jefferson never, at any period of life, made himself an aggressive assailant of Christianity; that he never, in a solitary instance, sought directly or indirectly to proselyte a human being to unchristian views, or to shake his conviction in Christian ones. Looking at the naked facts now, it would seem a matter of astonishment that he could have been so misunderstood and misrepresented on this subject by a portion of his contemporaries, on the strength of evidence which, before a tribunal accustomed to pay any attention to sound and just rules of evidence, would fail to command serious notice. But if we look into the surrounding circumstances impartially -- with that spirit of liberality towards his opponents which it must be confessed they never showed to him, we believe some excuses can be found for the conduct of the great portion, and particularly the religious portion of them. We do not propose to deter this question -- the religious issue between the living Jefferson and his antagonists -- like the preceding one, to the conclusion of his history. The facts will be required to furnish contemporaneous explanations of several important circumstances in his public and private career. We shall probably enter upon their examination while narrating the events of the year 1800 -- when he was first publicly assaulted on this subject on an extensive and imposing scale."
• Henry Stephens Randall. The Life of Thomas Jefferson, vol. 1 of 3. New York: Derby and Jackson, 1858. 678 pp. Chapter V: 1776. Drafting the Declaration of Independence.
• Henry Stephens Randall. The Life of Thomas Jefferson, vol. 3 of 3. New York: Derby and Jackson, 1858. Chapter 14: 1826-1848. This chapter documents Jefferson's views on religion.

  "Mr. Jefferson was a public professor of his belief in the Christian religion. In all his most important early Slate papers, much as his Summary View of the Rights of British America, his portion of the Declaration made by Congress on the Causes of taking up Arms, the Declaration of Independence, the draft of a Constitution for Virginia, etc., there are more or less pointed recognitions of God and Providence. In his two Inaugural Addresses as President of the United States, and in many of his annual messages he makes the same recognitions--clothes them on several occasions in the most explicit language--substantially avows the God of his faith to be the God of revelation--declares his belief in the efficacy of prayer, and the duty of ascription- of praise to the Author of all mercies--and speaks of the Christian religion as professed in his country as a benign religion, evincing the favor of Heaven.1

  Had his wishes been consulted, the symbol borne on our national seal would have contained our public profession of Christianity as a nation.2

  There is nothing in his writings or in the history of his life to show that his public declarations were insincere, or thrown out for mere effect.3 On the contrary, his most confidential writings sustain his public professions, and advance beyond them into the avowal of a belief in a future state of rewards and punishments.4

  He contributed freely to the erection of Christian churches, gave money to Bible societies and other religious objects, and was a liberal and regular contributor to the support of the clergy. Letters of his are extant which show him urging, with respectful delicacy, the acceptance of extra and unsolicited contributions, on the pastor of his parish, on occasions of extra expense to the latter, such as the building of a house, the meeting of an ecclesiastical convention at Charlottesville, etc. In these letters he assumes that he is only performing a duty, and pleasantly compares it to the discharge of a special service, by a feudal inferior to his liege lord, on those extraordinary occasions when it was required by the feudal law.

  He attended church with as much regularity as most of the members of the congregation--sometimes going alone on horseback, when his family remained at home. He generally attended the Episcopal Church, and when he did so, always carried his prayer-book,1 and joined in the responses and prayers of the congregation. He was baptized into the Episcopal Church in his infancy; he was married by one of its clergymen; his wife lived and died a member of it; his children were baptized into it, and when married were married according to its rites; its burial services were read over those of them who preceded him to the grave, over his wife, and finally over himself.

  No person ever heard him utter a word of profanity, and those who met him most familiarly through periods of acquaintance extending from two or three to twenty or thirty years, declare that they never heard a word of impiety, or any scoff at religion, from his lips. Among his numerous familiar acquaintances, we have not found one whose testimony is different--or who entertained any doubts of the strict justice, sincerity, truthfulness, and exemplariness of his personal character.

  ***

  1 The following passages are from his first Inaugural Address: . . . "enlightened by a benign religion, professed, indeed, and practised in various form, yet all of them including honesty, truth, temperance, gratitude, and the love of man: acknowledging and adoring an overruling Providence, which by all its dispensations proves that it delights in the happiness of man here and his greater happiness hereafter: with all these blessings, what more is necessary to make us a happy and prosperous people?

  . . . And may that Infinite Power which rules the destinies of the universe lead our counsels to what is best, and give them a favorable issue for your peace and prosperity."

  From his First Annual Message, December 8th, 1801:

  "While we devoutly return thanks to the beneficent Being who has been pleased to breathe into them the spirit of conciliation and forgiveness, we are bound with peculiar gratitude to be thankful to him that our own peace has been preserved through so perilous a season, and ourselves permitted quietly to cultivate the earth, and to practise and improve those arts which tend to increase our comforts."

  From his second Annual Message. December 15th, 1802:

  "When we assemble together, fellow citizens, to consider the state of oor beloved country, our just attentions are first drawn to those pleasing circumstances which mark the goodness of that Being from whose favor they flow, and the large measure of thankfulness we owe for his bounty. Another year has come around, and finds us still blessed with peace and friendship abroad; law, order, and religion, at home."

  From his third Annual Message, October 17th, 1803:

  "While we regret the miseries in which we see others involved, let us bow with gratitude to that kind Providence which, inspiring with wisdom and moderation our late legislative counsels while placed under the urgency of the greatest wrongs, guarded us from hastily entering into the sanguinary contest, and left us only to look on and to pity its ravages."

  In his fourth Annual Message, (November 8th, 1804) transmitted to Congress near the time of the Presidential election--and while the Federalists were denouncing Mr. Jefferson as an atheist, a foe to the Christian religion, etc., we think no reference occurs to God or Christianity.

  In his second inaugural address, March 4th, 1805, he said:

  "I shall need, too, the favor of that Being in whose hands we are, who led our forefathers, as Israel of old, from their native land, and planted them in a country flowing with all the necessaries and comforts of life: who has covered our infancy with his providence, and our riper years with his wisdom and power: and to whose goodness I ask you to join with me in supplications, that he will so enlighten the minds of your servants, guide their councils, and prosper their measures, that whatsoever they do, shall result in your good, and shall secure you the peace, friendship and approbation of all nations."

  It cannot be necessary to follow these quotations further.

  2 See vol. 1, p. 192.

  3 We find him once, like John Adams and Hamilton, advocating a fast day for popular effect--he in the Revolution, they in later partisan conflicts. This is all; nor does it in any way conflict with the declaration in the text.

  4 This is implied in his letter to Dr. Benjamin Waterhouse, June 26th, 1822. And if the inference needed any support it will be found in the fact that while he repeatedly dissents from doctrines imputed to Christ, he nowhere in his writings dissents from this one, which he enumerates as a cardinal doctrine of the Saviour and as "tending to the happiness of man." The letter to Waterhouse will be found in Randolph's edition of his Works, vol. 1v. p. 349; in the congress edition, vol. vii, p. 252.

• Bird Wilson. Memoir of the life of the Right Reverend William White, D. D., Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the state of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia, 1839. 430 pp.
• Ashbel Green. Review; Memoir, Correspondence And Miscellanies. From The Papers of Thomas Jefferson, The Christian Advocate, Vol. 8 Philadelphia: Feb 1, 1830. pp. 78-83.
  • Ashbel Green. Review; JEFFERSON'S PAPERS , The Christian Advocate, Vol. 8. Philadelphia: Mar 1, 1830. pp. 135-142.
  • Ashbel Green. Review; JEFFERSON'S PAPERS , The Christian Advocate, Vol. 8. Philadelphia: Apr 1, 1830. pp. 194-199.
  • Ashbel Green. Review; JEFFERSON'S PAPERS , The Christian Advocate, Vol. 8. Philadelphia: May 1, 1830. pp. 246-251.
  • Ashbel Green. JEFFERSON'S PAPERS; To George Washington, President of the United States; To the Clergy of different denominations residing in and near the city of Philadelphia, The Christian Advocate, Vol. 8. Philadelphia: Jun 1, 1830; pp. 305-310.
• Bill Fortenberry. What is the Law of Nature's God? Posted April 6, 2014.

Episcopalian. Delegate from Virginia. Brother of Richard Henry Lee. Member of the Continental Congress 1775-1779; one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence; member of the State house of delegates in 1780 and 1781; served in the Virginia State senate 1778-1782. Read about Lee here, here, here.and here.

• Correspondence of Francis Lightfoot Lee, 1768-1796. Transcribed by Sarah L. Jones, Menokin Foundation Intern, Summer 2003, Yale University Class of 2006.
• Margaret Elizabeth Gillie. Francis Lightfoot Lee: Virginia Gentleman and Forgotten Patriot. Submitted to the Department of History Mary Washington College In Partial Requirement For a Degree with Honors in History by Margaret Elizabeth Gillie, April 27, 1982.
• Francis Lightfoot Lee. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Episcopalian. Brother of Francis Lightfoot Lee. Read about Lee here, here and here.

• United States. Continental Congress. The twelve United Colonies, by their delegates in Congress, to the inhabitants of Great-Britain. . United States. Continental Congress. The twelve United Colonies, by their delegates in Congress, to the inhabitants of Great-Britain. Philadelphia, M,DCC,LXXV. [1775]. 17 pp.
• Richard Henry Lee.Observations leading to a fair examination of the system of government, proposed by the late Convention; and to several essential and necessary alterations in it. In a number of letters from the Federal Farmer to the Republican. [New York], in the year M,DCC,LXXXVII. [1787]. 40 pp.
• James Curtis Ballagh, editor. The Letters of Richard Henry Lee, Vol. 1. 1762-1778. New York: The Macmillan Company, 1912.
• James Curtis Ballagh, editor. The Letters of Richard Henry Lee, Vol. 2. 1762-1778. New York: The Macmillan Company, 1914.
  Letter to Samuel Adams, March 14. 1785: "And I think that the Christian philosophy, in tenderness for human infirmities strongly inculcates principles of mutual forgiveness and benevolence. These reflections have been created in my mind by that kind of exultation" beyond measure," which you so wisely deprecate, and which I have seen so much to prevail as to injure in my idea that greatness of character, which had dignified America in her resistence to British Tyranny."
  Letter to Colonel Mortin Pickett, March 5, 1786: "It is certainly true that a popular government cannot flourish without virtue in the people, and it is as true that knowledge is a principal source of virtue; these facts render the establishment of schools, for the instruction of youth, a fundamental concern in all free communities. I wish that it had been made a primary duty of the legislature, by our constitution, as it has been wisely done by some of the states in this union. Such establishments will be the surest means of perpetuating our free forms of government, for, when men are taught to know, and well to understand, the great inherent rights of human nature, they will take care not to suffer the hands of vice, of violence, or of ignorance, to rob them of such inestimable blessings." p. 411.
  To the American minister to England, October the 24th 1785: "It is imagined that before any thing is done in this business by the Bishops of England, that they will consult the King and Ministry; who it is apprehended may now, as heretofore, suppose that any step of the kind being taken in England, might be considered here as an officious intermeddling with our affairs that would give offence on this side the water Should this be the case the Church of England Members in Congress have the greatest reliance on your liberal regard for the religious rights of all men, that you will remove mistaken scruples from the mind of administration, by representing how perfectly consonant it is with our Revolution principles professed thro-out all the States, that every denomination of Christians has a right to pursue its own religious modes, interfering not with others. That instead of giving offence it must give content, by evidencing a friendly disposition to accommodate the people here who are of the Church in question. In proof of this, Congress did lately shew their attention to the accommodation of this class of Christians, by communicating to the different Executives your information from the Danish Minister of that King's willingness so to facilitate the business of ordination for our church And the Assembly of Virginia hath incorporated this Society Under which Act of incorporation the Convention was held in that State that sent both Lay and Clerical deputies to the General Convention lately held in Philadelphia."
• Memoir of the Life of Richard Henry Lee, and his correspondence with the most distinguished men in America and Europe, illustrative of their characters, and of the events of the American revolution. Philadelphia, H.C. Carey and I. Lea, 1825. 2 v. front. (port.) 22 cm. Volume 1 of 2. Volume 2 of 2. Volume 2 also here.
  "I have seen it observed by a great writer, that Christianity, by introducing into Europe the truest principles of humanity, universal benevolence, and brotherly love, had happily abolished civil slavery. Let us, who profess the same religion, practise its precepts; and by agreeing to this duty, convince the world that we know and practise our true interests, and that we pay a proper regard to the dictates of justice and humanity!" From Vol. I, p. 19, the first speech of Richard Henry Lee in the House of Burgesses of Virginia.
• National Gazette. Richard Henry Lee. Daily National Intelligencer (Washington, DC) Thursday, October 13, 1825; Issue 3971; col C. Biographical memoir.

Episcopalian. Delegate from New York. Member of the Continental Congress 1775-1779; was a signer of the Declaration of Independence; delegate to the provincial convention in 1775; member of the Committee of One Hundred in 1775; served in the Provincial Congress in 1776 and 1777. Read about Lewis here, here and here. Note: Lewis was a Freemason.

• Phil Webster. Francis Lewis. From 1776 Faith, p. 87. Xulon Press, 2009. 236 pp. Lewis quote from Journals of the Continental Congress, v. 19, pp. 221-222.

Episcopalian, Presbyterian. Delegate from New Jersey. Read about Livingston here, here, here and here.

• The other side of the question: or, A defence of the liberties of North-America. In answer to a late Friendly address to all reasonable Americans. New-York, M,DCC,LXXIV. [1774]. 29 pp.
• Philip Livingston. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Episcopalian. Delegate from South Carolina. Read about Lynch here, here, here, here, and here.

• John Sanderson. Lynch. Biography of the signers to the Declaration of independence, Volume 5. Philadelphia, 1823-1827. 384 pp.

Presbyterian. Delegate from Delaware. Read about McKean here, here, here, here, here and here by Buchanan, Roberdeau, 1839-1916

• THOMAS McKEAN TO JOHN ADAMS. Philadelphia, 15 November, 1813. From The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, Notes and Illustrations, by his Grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1856). 10 volumes. Vol. 10.
  I have briefly mentioned the situation of the people of Pennsylvania at the time of the American revolution; the like shall now be done with respect to Delaware. This small State was inhabited before Pennsylvania; it consists of only three counties, namely--Newcastle, Kent, and Sussex; the last was settled by a few families from Sweden, more from Holland, but the great mass from England. Kent was nearly in the same proportions; and Newcastle was inhabited from Sweden, Holland, but the great majority were from Ireland; there were a few from England and Scotland. In Newcastle, three fifths were at the time of the revolution Presbyterians, in Kent, about five eighths Protestant Episcopalians, and in Sussex, two thirds of the latter. The Society in London "for propagating the gospel in foreign parts," had about half a dozen missionaries, perhaps more, in the State of Delaware, to some of whom they gave a salary of 60/., to others 50/. sterling a year. These ministers foresaw, that if America became an independent state or nation, their salaries would necessarily cease. It was their interest, therefore, to oppose the revolution, and they did oppose it, though with as much secrecy as practicable. They told their hearers, many of whom, especially in Sussex, were illiterate, ignorant, and bigoted, that it was a plan of the Presbyterians to get their religion established; that it originated in New England, and was fostered by the Presbyterians in every colony or province A majority of this State were unquestionably against the independence of America; but the most sensible of the Episcopalians, the Baptists and Quakers, and the Presbyterians, with very few exceptions, prevailed against them, as they believed they would be overpowered, with the help of the other colonies, if they resisted. I could not avoid remarking, that I was chosen, unanimously, speaker of the House of Representatives of this State, when, of all the members present, there were but six, including myself, who were esteemed whigs.
• THOMAS McKEAN TO JOHN ADAMS. Philadelphia, January, 1814. From The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States: with a Life of the Author, Notes and Illustrations, by his Grandson Charles Francis Adams (Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1856). 10 volumes. Vol. 10.
  On the 1st July, 1776, the question was taken in the committee of the whole of Congress, when Pennsylvania, represented by seven members then present, voted against it--four to three; among the majority were Robert Morris and John Dickinson. Delaware (having only two present, namely, myself and Mr. Read) was divided; all the other States voted in favor of it. The report was delayed until the 4th, and in the mean time I sent an express for Cæsar Rodney, to Dover, in the county of Kent, in Delaware, at my private expense, whom I met at the State-house door on the 4th of July in his boots; he resided eighty miles from the city, and just arrived as Congress met. The question was taken; Delaware voted in favor of independence; Pennsylvania (there being only five members present, Messrs. Dickinson and Morris absent) voted also for it; Messrs. Willing and Humphreys were against it. Thus the thirteen States were unanimous in favor of independence.¹ Notwithstanding this, in the printed public journal of Congress for 1776, vol. ii., it appears that the declaration of independence was declared on the 4th of July, 1776, by the gentlemen whose names are there inserted; whereas no person signed it on that day, and among the names there inserted, one gentleman, namely George Read, was not in favor of it; and seven were not in Congress on that day, namely Messrs. Morris, Rush, Clymer, Smith, Taylor, and Ross, all of Pennsylvania, and Mr. Thornton, of New Hampshire; nor were the six gentlemen last named, members of Congress on the 4th of July. The five for Pennsylvania were appointed delegates by the convention of that State on the 20th July, and Mr. Thornton took his seat in Congress for the first time on the 4th November following; when the names of Henry Wisner, of New York, and Thomas M'Kean, of Delaware, are not printed as subscribers, though both were present in Congress on the 4th of July and voted for independence.

  Here false colors are certainly hung out; there is culpability somewhere. What I have heard as an explanation is as follows. When the declaration was voted, it was ordered to be engrossed on parchment and then signed, and that a few days afterwards a resolution was entered on the secret journal, that no person should have a seat in Congress during that year until he should have signed the declaration of independence. After the 4th of July I was not in Congress for several months, having marched with a regiment of associators, as colonel, to support General Washington, until the flying camp of ten thousand men was completed. When the associators were discharged, I returned to Philadelphia, took my seat in Congress, and signed my name to the declaration on parchment. This transaction should be truly stated, and the then secret journal should be made public. In the manuscript journal, Mr. Pickering, then Secretary of State, and myself, saw a printed half sheet of paper, with the names of the members afterwards in the printed journals stitched in. We examined the parchment, where my name is signed in my own handwriting.

  ¹ This account is not quite accurate. The writer has confounded the question on the motion to declare, and that on the form of the declaration. The first was taken on the 2d of July. The second was adopted on the 4th. See Mr. Jefferson's clear statement rectifying this error, in his letter to S. A. Wells, in Randolph's edition, vol. i. p. 98.

• Declaration of Independence. Niles' Weekly Register (1814-1837). Baltimore: June 28, 1817. Vol. 12, Iss. 304; p. 278.
  • Letters of Thomas McKean. Baltimore: July 12, 1817. Vol. 12, Iss. 306; pp. 305. 5 pp.
    • Declaration of Independence. The National Register, a Weekly Paper, Containing a Series of the Important Public Documents, and the Proceedings of Congress; Statistical Tables, Reports and Essays, Original and Selected, Upon Agriculture, Manufactures, Commerce, and Finance; Science, Literature and the Arts; and Biographical Sketches; with summary Statements of the Current News and Political Events; Making Two Volumes Yearly (1816-1820). Washington: July 12, 1817. Vol. 4, Iss. 2; p. 21.
    • Declaration of Independence. The Port - Folio (1801-1827). Philadelphia: Sep 1817. Vol. 4, Iss. 3; pp. 246-248.
    • Miscellany. Declaration of Independence. The Philadelphia Register and National Recorder (1819-1819). Philadelphia: Jan 30, 1819. Vol. 1, Iss. 5; pp. 85-87.
  • F. Christianity The Basis Of Our Republic. Messenger (1876-1887), Vol. 45, Iss. 32, Philadelphia: August 9, 1876, p. 4.
    H. P. Laird, Esq., of Greensburg, Pa., was the chosen Centennial orator for that place. His address, which has been given to the public, evinces more than usual historic knowledge. There are two features about it, which we specially admire.
    The one is the manifest disposition to give all nationalities, whieh were united in the grent struggle for liberty in the war of independence, their respective dues. Our German forefathers, accordingly, as is only too seldom the case, are not allowed to appear in the background, but have the prominence assigned tbem, to which they are justly entitled.
    The other feature is the prominence unhesitatingly given to the recognition of Divine Providence in the affairs of the nation, on the part of the fathers of our country, and the specific acknowledgment of the Christian religion given by the State Provincial Conference held in 1776, looking to the election of members of a convention, who should be representatives of the people chosen by themselves, to lay the foundation of a government based on the authority of the people only.
    Language like the following, though it may sound strange in some ears, has the true ring in it:
    One of the resolutions adopted by the conference declares, that "no person elected to serve as a member of the convention shall take his seat, or give his vote, until he shall have made and signed the following declaration: I, --, do profess faith in God the Father, and in Jesus Christ His eternal Son, the true God, and in the Holy Spirit, one God blessed for evermore; and do acknowledge the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be given by Divine inspiration." The members of the convention were elected on the 8th of July and met in this city on the 15th of July. Each and every one of them, before taking his seat, did publicly take and subscribe the profession of faith. In this number were such illustrious names as Benjamin Franklin, George Clymer, David Rittenhouse, Gabriel Hiester, and others; the names of the last two plainly indicating their German origin. Verily, in view of facts like these, it cannot be denied, that our Commonwealth at least, if not the whole nation, was indeed founded on the principles of the Christian religion. It is to be hoped, also, that it may ever prove itself true to such a noble foundation. F.
  • Nellie Hess Morris. The Birth of the American Republic, Ninety-Nine Years Ago; The Declaration of Independence. As Reported by the Committee. As Adopted by the Congress. Potter's American Monthly (1875-1882), Vol. 4, Iss. 43. Philadelphia: July 1875; pp. 491-504.
  • Nellie Hess Morris. The Declaration of Independence--Statements of Thomas Mckean and Thomas Jefferson Compared. Potter's American Monthly (1875-1882), Vol. 5, Iss. 45. Philadelphia: September 1875; p. 648-653. Notes and Queries--"The Mecklenburg Declaration," p. 705.
  • Nellie Hess Morris. 1776--1826--1876; The Great Committee, and Its Great Chairman of the "Masterly Pen." Potter's American Monthly (1875-1882). Vol. 7, Iss. 55; Philadelphia: July 1876. p. 17.

Episcopalian. South Carolina delegate to the Continental Congress and U.S. representative from and governor of South Carolina, and diplomat. Read about Middleton here, here, here, here, here, here, and here.

Papers of Arthur Middleton, 1767-1783. South Carolina Historical Society,/ Charleston,/ S.C. OCLC: 83393246. At the Library of Congress.

Episcopalian. Read about Morris here, here, here and Lives of the Signers to the Declaration of Independence with a sketch of the life of Washington. Hartford: H.E. Robins, 1849. 479 pp.
1829 edition here. W. Reed & Co., 1829. 460 pp.
On the 15th of May, he took his seat in that body, and eminently contributed, by his indefatigable zeal, to promote the interests of the country. He was placed on a committee of which Washington was the chairman, to devise ways and means to supply the colonies with ammunition and military stores, of which they were nearly destitute. The labors of this committee were exceedingly arduous.
During this session of congress, Mr. Morris was appointed to this delicate and difficult task of detaching the western Indians from a coalition with the British government, and securing their cooperation with the American colonies. Soon after his appointment to this duty, he repaired to Pittsburgh, in which place, and the vicinity, he continued for some time zealously engaged in accomplishing the object of his mission. In the beginning of the year 1776, he resumed his seat in congress, and was a member of several committees, which were appointed to purchase muskets and bayonets, and to encourage the manufacture of salt-peter and gunpowder.
But, notwithstanding this prevalent aversion to a separation from Great Britain, there were many in the colony who believed that a declaration of independence was not only a point of political expediency, but a matter of paramount duty. Of this latter class, Mr. Morris was one; and, in giving his vote for that declaration, he exhibited a patriotism and disinterestedness which few had it in their power to display. He was at this time in possession of an extensive domain, within a few miles of the city of New York. A British army had already landed from their ships, which lay within cannon shot of the dwelling of his family. A signature to the Declaration of Independence would insure the devastation of the former, and the destruction of the latter. But, upon the ruin of his individual property, he could look with comparative indifference, while he knew that his honor was untarnished, and the interests of his country were safe. He voted, therefore, for a separation from the mother country, in the spirit of a man of honor, and of enlarged benevolence.
It happened as was anticipated. The hostile army soon spread desolation over the beautiful and fertile manor of Morrisania. His tract of woodland of more than a thousand acres in extent, and, from its proximity to the city, of incalculable value, was destroyed; his house was greatly injured; his fences ruined; his stock driven away; and his family obliged to live in a state of exile. Few men during the revolution were called to make greater sacrifices than Mr. Morris; none made them more cheerfully. It made some amends for his losses and sacrifices, that the colony of New York, which had been backward in agreeing to a Declaration of Independence, unanimously concurred in that measure by her convention, when it was learned that congress had taken that step.

• Lewis Morris. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Episcopalian. Read about Morris here, here, here, here and here.

• The Papers of Robert Morris, 1781-1784: October 1, 1781-January 10, 1782. Volume 3 of The Papers of Robert Morris, 1781-1784. 616 pp. Abstract: Although Robert Morris (1734-1806), "the Financier of the American Revolution," was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution, a powerful committee chairman in the Continental Congress, an important figure in Pennsylvania politics, and perhaps the most prominent businessman of his day, he is today least known of the great national leaders of the Revolutionary era. This oversight is being rectified by this definitive publication project that transcribes and carefully annotates the Office of Finance diary, correspondence, and other official papers written by Morris during his administration as superintendent of finance from 1781 to 1784.

Episcopalian. Delegate from Pennsylvania. Cast the deciding vote leading to a declaration of independence. Chairman of committee which later adopted the Articles of Confederation. First representative to die after signing the Declaration. Read about Morton here, here, here, here, here and here.

• John S. Morton, 1835- . A History of the Origin of the Apellation Keystone State as Applied to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: Together with Extracts from Many Authorities Relative to the Adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress, July 4th, 1776; To Which is Appended the New Constitution of Pennsylvania with an Alphabetical Contents. Philadelphia: Claxton, Remsen & Haffelfinger, 1874. vi, 190 pp.: ill. ; 20 cm. Note: A compilation of newspaper articles, and other material in relation to the theory that Pennsylvania was called the "Keystone state" from the fact that, by the casting vote of one of her delegates in the Continental congress (John Morton), the unanimous adoption of the Declaration of independence was secured.

Episcopalian. Delegate from Virginia. Fourth governor of Virginia. Read about Nelson here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and in A Guide to the Executive Papers of Governor Thomas Nelson, Jr., 1781; June 12-November 22; Accession Number 44502; A Collection in the Library of Virginia.

• Letters of Thomas Nelson, Jr., Governor of Virginia. Richmond, Virginia Historical Society, 1874. "These letters...relate to the siege of Yorktown, the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, and the naval and military movements which resulted in that decisive triumph of the Continental arms, and are now published for the first time."
• Phil Webster. 1776 Faith.

Episcopalian. Delegate from Maryland. Third governor of Maryland. Read about Paca here, here, here, here, here, here and here.

• William Paca. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Congregationalist. Delegate from Massachusetts. Read about Paine here, here, here, here and here. Not to be confused with Robert Treat Paine, minister, 1773-1811, who wrote Eulogy on the Life of General George Washington.

• Robert Treat Paine. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 1 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.
• Robert Treat Paine. From A Biography of the Signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Episcopalian. Delegate from North Carolina. Read about Penn here, here, here, here, here, here and here. Note: Penn was a Freemason.

• Nathaniel Dwight. John Penn. From The Lives of the signers of the Declaration of independence. 1852. 373 pp.

Episcopalian. Delegate from Delaware. Read about Read here, here and here.

• William Thompson Read. Life and Correspondence of George Read: A Signer of the Declaration of Independence; with notices of some of his contemporaries. J.B. Lippincott & Co., 1870. 567 pp.
• In convention, at New-Castle, for the Delaware state, begun the 27th day of August, 1776, and continued by adjournment to the 21st day of September following. Delaware. Constitutional Convention, 1776. 11, [1] pp. 34 cm.
  THE Oath and Affirmation with the Declaration taken, made and subscribed by the Members respectively: I, ------, will to the utmost of my Power support and maintain the independence of this State as declared by the Honorable the Continental Congress; and I will to the utmost of my Ability endeavour to form such a System of Government for the People of this State as in my Opinion may be best adapted to promote their Happiness, and secure to them the Enjoyment of their natural, civil and religious Rights and privileges.
  I, ------, do profess Faith in God the Father, and in Jesus Christ his only Son, and in the Holy Ghost, one God blessed for evermore; and I do acknowledge the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be given by divine Inspiration.

Episcopalian Read about Rodney here, here, here, here, here, and here.

• Caesar Rodney. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Episcopalian. Delegate of Pennsylvania. Read about Ross here, here, here and here.

George Ross was Vice-President of the Pennsylvania Convention of July 15, 1776, and prepared and proposed the "Declaration of Rights" which dissolved Proprietary Government of the Province and declared the commonwealth free and independent agreeably to the Declaration.

• Papers. Library of Congress. In the Henry A. Willard II Collection, ca. 1743-1888, 0.8 linear foot. Persons represented include George Ross.

American founder. civic leader in Philadelphia, physician, politician, social reformer, educator and humanitarian. Founder of Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Member of the Continental Congress. Signer of the Declaration of Independence. Surgeon General in the Continental army. Professor of chemistry, medical theory, and clinical practice at the University of Pennsylvania. Read more about Rush here and here.

• An Address to the Inhabitants of the British settlements, on the slavery of the Negroes in America. To which is added, A vindication of the address, in answer to a pamphlet entitled, "Slavery not forbidden in Scripture; or, A defence of the West India planters."
  "Remember that national crimes require national punishments, and without declaring what punishment awaits this evil, you may venture to assure them that it cannot pass with impunity, unless God shall cease to be just or merciful."
• Essays, Literary, Moral and Philosophical, by Benjamin Rush, M.D. and professor of the institutes of medicine and clinical practice in the University of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia: Printed by Thomas & Samuel F. Bradford, no. 8, South Front Street, 1798. 386 pp.; 22 cm. (8vo)
  • Essays, Literary, Moral and Philosophical by Benjamin Rush, M.D. and professor of the institutes of medicine and clinical practice in the University of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia, 1798. 386 pp. "Thoughts on Common Sense." Extract.
  • Essays, Literary, Moral and Philosophical, 2d ed., with additions.A PLAN for establishing Public Schools in Pennsylvania, and for conducting education agreeably to a Republican form of Government; Of the mode of Education proper in a Republic. Philadelphia, 1806. 370 pp. 'The only foundation for a useful education in a republic is to be laid in religion. Without this there can be no virtue, and without virtue there can be no liberty, and liberty is the object and life of all republican governments."
  • Essays, Literary, Moral and Philosophical, 2d ed., with additions. "Thoughts upon the amusements and punishments, which are proper for Schools" and "Thoughts upon Female Education, accommodated to the present state of society, manners and government, in the United States of America". Philadelphia, 1806. 370 pp.
  • Essays, Literary, Moral and Philosophical, 2d ed., with additions."A Defence of the Bible as a School Book". Philadelphia, 1806. 370 pp. "We profess to be republicans, and yet we neglect the only means of establishing and perpetuating our republican forms of government, that is, the universal education of our youth in the principles of Christianity by the means of the Bible. For this Divine Book, above all others, favors that equality among mankind, that respect for just laws, and those sober and frugal virtues, which constitute the soul of republicanism."
  • Essays, Literary, Moral and Philosophical, 2d ed., with additions. "An Address to the ministers of the Gospel of every denomination in the United States upon subjects interesting to morals". Philadelphia, 1806. 370 pp.
  • Essays, Literary, Moral and Philosophical, 2d ed., with additions. "A Plan of a Peace Office for the United States". Philadelphia, 1806. 370 pp.
• L. H. Butterfield, editor. Letters of Benjamin Rush. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1951.
  "By renouncing the Bible, philosophers swing from their moorings upon all moral subjects. . . . It is the only correct map of the human heart that ever has been published. . . . All systems of religion, morals, and government not founded upon it [the Bible] must perish, and how consoling the thought, it will not only survive the wreck of these systems but the world itself. "The Gates of Hell shall not prevail against it." [Matthew 1:18] p. 936, Letter to John Adams, January 23, 1807.
• Vices Peculiar to the Indians.

Episcopalian. Delegate of South Carolina. Read about Rutledge here, here, here, here, and here.

• James Haw. John & Edward Rutledge of South Carolina. University of Georgia Press, 1997. 385 pp. Abstract: This biography chronicles the lives of John Rutledge and Edward Rutledge, members of one of the nation's most influential political families during the American Revolutionary period. Raised in Charleston, both Rutledge brothers went on to serve as representatives to the Continental Congress and as governors of their home state. John Rutledge (1739-1800) was a wealthy planter and successful lawyer, a leader in South Carolina's colonial Commons House of Assembly, and a delegate to the First and Second Continental Congresses. As chief executive of the state during most of the War for Independence, he was instrumental in its defense and recovery after the British conquest of 1780. One of the leading delegates to the United States constitutional convention in 1787, he served as chief justice of South Carolina, and briefly as associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Edward Rutledge (1749-1800), also trained as a lawyer, was a delegate to the First and Second Continental Congresses and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. As a leader in the state legislature in the 1780s and 1790s and as governor, he had great influence in state and national politics. While providing insight into the lives and careers of the Rutledges, this account also serves as a history of the American Revolution and the formation of a new nation.

Congregationalist. American lawyer and politician. Signer of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution. Read about Sherman here, here, here, here, and here.

Lossing, p. 55: "Roger Sherman fearlessly took part with the patriots, and was a leader among them in Connecticut, until the war broke out. He was elected a delegate from Connecticut to the Continental Congress, in 1774, and was present at the opening on the fifth of September. He was one of the most active members of that body, and was appointed one of the Committee to prepare a draft of a Declaration of Independence; a document to which he affixed his signature with hearty good will, after it was adopted by Congress."

• Roger Sherman. From A Biography of the Signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.
• Bushnell, Horace, 1802-1876. Speech for Connecticut. Hartford: Boswell and Faxon, 1851. 43 pp.; 24 cm.
  The Constitution of 1638-9,--"the first one written out, as a complete frame of civil order, in the new world, embodies," said Dr. Bushnell, in his noble Speech for Connecticut, "all the essential features of the constitutions of our States, and of the Republic itself, as they exist at the present day. It is the free representative plan, which now distinguishes our country in the eyes of the world." Mr. Calhoun declared in the Senate of the United States, that it was owing mainly to two States,--Connecticut and New Jersey,--that we have, as a nation, "the best government instead of the worst and most intolerant on earth. Who are the men of the States to whom we are indebted for this admirable government? I will name them," he said,--"their names ought to be engraved on brass and live forever. They were Chief-Justice ELLSWORTH, ROGER SHERMAN, and Judge PATTERSON of New Jersey. . . . To the coolness and sagacity of these three men, aided by a few others, not so prominent, we owe the present Constitution."
• Lewis Henry Boutell, 1826-1899. The Life of Roger Sherman. Chicago: McClurg, 1896. xii, 361 p. front. (port.) 21 cm.
• Mark David Hall, edited with Gary L. Gregg. "James Wilson" and "Roger Sherman." In America's Forgotten Founders, pp. 11-24, 67-78. Louisville: Butler Books, 2008.
• Mark David Hall, edited with Gary L. Gregg. America's Forgotten Founders. Louisville: The McConnell Center, 2008. 178 pp.: ill.; 21 cm. Abstract: Short biographies of the top ten members of the founding generation who are often overlooked but deserve to be remembered. The book contains essential biographical material, summations of major accomplishments, and primary source material from the pens of these forgotten founders. Contents: James Wilson -- George Mason -- Gouverneur Morris -- John Jay -- Roger Sherman -- John Marshall -- John Dickinson -- Thomas Paine -- Patrick Henry -- John Witherspoon.
• Daniel L. Dreisbach, Mark David Hall, and Jeffrey H. Morrison, editors. "Roger Sherman: An Old Puritan in a New Nation," in The Forgotten Founders on Religion and Public Life, Notre Dame: University of Notre Dame Press, 2009.

• The Connecticut diary: or, Almanack, for the year of our Lord Christ, 1757: ... Calculated for the latitude of 41 degrees north, and the meridian of New-Haven, in Connecticut. By Roger Sherman. [Twelve lines of verse] [16] pp. 17 cm. (8vo)

  Sherman wrote other astronomical diaries acknowledging "Year of Our Lord Christ" 1749-1760.

• A Short sermon on the duty of self examination, preparatory to receiving the Lord's Supper. Wherein the qualifications for communion are briefly considered, with an appendix containing extracts from Mr. Richard Baxter's works. Shewing the necessity of a personal profession of true Christianity to entitle persons of adult age to the privileges of communion with the visible church whether baptized in infancy or not. [Two lines from Romans] . New Haven: Printed and sold by Abel Morse, M,DCCLXXXIX. [1789]. [2], 20, [2] pp. 16 cm. (12mo)
• Correspondence between Roger Sherman and Samuel Hopkins. Worcester, Mass.: Charles Hamilton, 1889. 27 pp.; 26 cm.
  Roger Sherman to Samuel Hopkins, New Haven, October 1790. Proceedings of the American Antiquarian Society, Volume 5, pp. 457-461. American Antiquarian Society, 1889.
• Remarks on a pamphlet, entituled 'A Dissertation on the political union and constitution of the thirteen United States of North-America.' 'By a citizen of Philadelphia.' With some brief observations, whether all the western lands, not actually purchased or conquered by the crown of Great-Britain, antecedent to the late cession, made to the thirteen United States of North-America, ought not to be considered as ceded to the thirteen states jointly---and whether all the confiscated estates of those people, by some termed Loyalists, are to be considered as forfeited to the states in which they were resident, or to all the states included in the confederation. By a Connecticut farmer. [New Haven]: Printed [by T. and S. Green], M,DCC,LXXXIV. [1784] x, [1], 12-43, [1] p.; 18 cm. (4to)
• Jonathan Edwards, 1745-1801. A Sermon delivered at the funeral of the Honorable Roger Shermon [sic] Esq. senator of the United States of America. Who deceased the 23 of July 1793. / By Jonathan Edwards, D.D [New Haven]: Printed and sold by Abel Morse, in State Street New Haven, M,DCC,XCIII. [1793] 24 pp.; 22 cm. (8vo)

Presbyterian. Read about Smith here, here here, here and in Colonial Hall.

• James Smith. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Presbyterian, buried in a Quaker cemetery. Read about Presbyterian here, here, here, here and here. Note: Stockton was a Freemason.

• Samuel Stanhope Smith, 1750-1819; Annis Boudinot Stockton, 1736-1801. A Funeral Sermon, on the death of the Hon. Richard Stockton, Esq. Princeton, March 2, 1781. Trenton: Printed and sold by Isaac Collins, 1781. 48 pp.; 20 cm. (8vo)
• Stockton family. Hunter family. Hodge family. Papers. Year: 1774-1911 12 boxes. LCCN: 94-798419. Library of Congress. Historical Society of Princeton. Correspondence, diaries, financial documents, genealogical materials, sermons, drawings, deeds, maps, poems, photographs, and other papers, of the Stockton, Hunter, Hodge, Bache, and other related families, prominent in local, state, and national affairs, from the Revolutionary War through the early 20th century. Includes papers of Richard Stockton (1730-1781) and his son-in-law, Benjamin Rush (1746-1813), signers of the Declaration of Independence; family members who attended the College of New Jersey; and another Stockton son-in-law, Rev. Andrew Hunter (1750 or 1-1823), reflecting early U.S. Army and Navy history. Other subjects include the family's role in the development of New Jersey's canals and railroads, national and state politics, the economic and social development of Princeton, and involvement with mining and land speculation in California and elsewhere. Family members represented include Annis Boudinot Stockton, John Potter Stockton, Lucius Horatio Stockton, Mary Field Stockton, Richard Stockton (1764-1828), Richard Stockton (1791-1827), Richard Stockton (1824-1876), Robert Field Stockton (1795-1866), Robert Field Stockton (1832-1918), Samuel Witham Stockton (1834-1899), William Bradford Stockton, Andrew Hunter (d. 1775), Charles Hodge Hunter, Richard Stockton Hunter (1798-1825), Catherine Wistar Bache (1770-1820), Catherine Wistar Bache (1805-1886), Richard Bache, Sarah Franklin Bache, Elias Boudinot, Caspar Wistar Hodge, Charles Hodge, Mary Manners Hunter Stockton Hodge, and Sarah Bache Hodge.

Episcopalian. Delegate from Maryland. Read about Stone here, here, here and here.

• John Sanderson, Robert Waln, Henry Dilworth Gilpin. Biography of the signers to the Declaration of independence, Volume 9. R. W. Pomeroy, 1822. .
  A few days before his death, he wrote a letter of advice to his only son, then a boy, about twelve years old, which as the dying counsels of a virtuous parent, actually in the near prospect of death, will be read with interest, independent of the claims of the individual to our respect and public gratitude. It is this:
  "MY DEAR FREDERICK-I am now in a weak state, about to travel, and probably shall not see you more. Let me intreat you to attend to the following advice which I leave you as a legacy, keep and read it, and resort to it.
  "In the first place, do your duty to God in spirit and in truth, always considering him as your best protector, and doing all things to please him; nothing to offend him; and be assured he is always present and knows all your thoughts and actions, and that you will prosper and be happy if you please him, and miserable and unhappy if you displease him. Say your prayers every day, and attend divine worship at church regularly and devoutly, with a pious design of doing your duly and receiving instruction. Think more of your soul's health and the next world than of this, and never do wrong on any account. Be honest, religious, charitable and kind, guarded in your conduct, and upright in your intentions.
  Shun all giddy, loose and wicked company; they will corrupt and lead you into vice, and bring you to ruin. Seek the company of sober, virtuous and good people, who will always shew you examples of rectitude of conduct and propriety of behaviour-which will lead to solid happiness.
  Be always attentive to the advice of your uncles, Doct. Brown and Michael J. Stone, and do nothing of consequence without consulting them. Be respectful to your seniors, and all your friends, and kind to every body. Seek to do all the good you can, remembering that there is no happiness equal to that which good actions afford. Be attentive, and kind, and loving, to your sisters, and when you grow up protect and assist them on all occasions.
  Take care not to be seduced by the professions of any person to do what your heart tells you is wrong, for on self-approbation all happiness depends.
  Attend to your education and learning, and never let your mind be idle, which is the root of all evil, but be constantly employed in virtuous pursuits or reflections.
  Let your aim in life be to attain to goodness rather than greatness among men: the former is solid, the latter all vanity, and often leads to ruin in this and the next world. This I speak from experience.
  I commend you to heaven's protection. May God of his infinite mercy protect you, and lead you to happiness in this world and the next, is the most fervent prayer of your loving father."
  Appendix, "Thomas Stone and Samuel Chase," pp. 332-333.

Episcopalian. Delegate from Pennsylvania. Continental congressman, signer of the Declaration of Independence, and ironmaster. Read about Taylor here, here, here, here, and here.

• George Taylor; Warren S. Ely; B. F. Fackenthal. George Taylor research collection. Library of Congress. LCCN: 99-156782. Historical and biographical data and sketches by Warren S. Ely, B.F. Fackenthal, and others; photocopies of a land sale agreement (1774); inventory (1774); and transcripts of Taylor's letters (1757-1793).

Congregationalist; Presbyterian. Signer of the United States Declaration of Independence as a representative of New Hampshire. Read about Thornton here, here, here, here, here, here and here. He was identified as a Presbyterian by the Presbyterian Historical Society and the Presbyterian Church, USA. (Source: Ian Dorion, "Table of the Religious Affiliations of American Founders", 1997).
From: B. J. Lossing, Signers of the Declaration of Independence, George F. Cooledge & Brother: New York (1848) [reprinted in Lives of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence, WallBuilder Press: Aledo, Texas (1995)], page 21: Dr. Thornton was greatly beloved by all who knew him, and to the close of his long life he was a consistent and zealous Christian. He always enjoyed remarkably good health, and by the practice of those hygeian virtues, temperance and cheerfulness, he attained a patriarchal age.

• In Provincial Congress, Exeter, June 2, 1775. To the inhabitants of the colony of New-Hampshire. Friends and brethren, You must all be sensible that the affairs of America have at length come to a very affecting and alarming cricis [sic]. ... We would therefore recommend to the colony at large, to cultivate that Christian union, harmony and tender affection, which is the only foundation upon which our valuable privileges can rest. [Exeter, N.H.?: Printed by Robert Fowle, 1775. Broadside [1] p.; 36 x 25 cm.
• New Hampshire. Provincial Congress. In Provincial Congress, Exeter, June 6, 1775: Whereas it has pleased the righteous Governor of the World to permit evil men, on both sides of the Atlantick, to ripen their plots against the liberties of America into violence ... Resolved ... that Thursday the twenty-second day of this instant, be observed as a day of humiliation, fasting and prayer. [Exeter, N.H.: Printed by Robert Luist Fowle, 1775]. 1 sheet; 38 x 26 cm.

• New Hampshire. Provincial Congress. In Congress, Exeter Nov. 4, 1775. A Proclamation for a Publick Thanksgiving. ... Thursday the 30th of this instant November, be observed and kept as a day of Publick Thanksgiving throughout the colony. [Exeter, N.H: Printed by Robert Luist Fowle, 1775]. 1 sheet; 30 x 19 cm.

Episcopalian. Delegate from Georgia. Read about Walton here, here, here, here, here, here and in Encyclopedia Britannica, Vol. 10, 1889. Note: Walton was a Freemason.

• Revolutionary reader: reminiscences and Indian legends. Byrd Print. Co., 1913. 378 pp.

Congregationalist. Delegate from New Hampshire, Read about Whipple here, here here, here, and here.

• William Whipple. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Congregationalist. Read about Williams here, here, here, here, here and here.

• Charles Augustus Goodrich. Lives of the signers to the Declaration of Independence. T. Mather, 1832. 460 pp.
• William Williams. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 1 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Episcopalian, Presbyterian. American statesman. One of the six signers of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Read more about Wilson here and here.
Lossing, p. 129: "For many years, Mr. Wilson stood at the head of the Philadelphia bar, and so popular was he as an advocate, that nearly every important case that came before the higher tribunals of that State was defended by him. As a patriot none was firmer; as a Christian none sincerer; and as a husband, father, neighbor and friend, he was beloved and esteemed in the highest degree."

• A Defence of public or social worship; in a letter, addressed to Gilbert Wakefield, B.A. by James Wilson, M.A.
• The Works of James Wilson, associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States: being his public discourses upon jurisprudence and the political science, including lectures as professor of law, 1790-2 / edited by James De Witt Andrews. Prefaces, CHAPTER I. INTRODUCTORY LECTURE. OF THE STUDY OF THE LAW IN THE UNITED STATES and CHAPTER II. "OF THE GENERAL PRINCIPLE OF LAW AND OBLIGATION" and CHAPTER III: "OF THE LAW OF NATURE". Volume 1 of 2. Chicago, 1896. "That our Creator has a supreme right to prescribe a law for our conduct, and that we are under the most perfect obligation to obey that law, are truths established on the clearest and most solid principles."

  "Far from being rivals or enemies, religion and law are twin sisters, friends, and mutual assistants. Indeed, these two sciences run into each other. The divine law, as discovered by reason and the moral sense, forms an essential part of both." p. 106.

  "III. Reason and conscience can do much; but still they stand in need of support and assistance. They are useful and excellent monitors; but, at some times, their admonitions are not sufficiently clear; at other times, they are not sufficiently powerful; at all times, their influence is not sufficiently extensive. Great and sublime truths, indeed, would appear to a few; but the world, at large, would be dark and ignorant. The mass of mankind would resemble a chaos, in which a few sparks, that would diffuse a glimmering light, would serve only to show, in a more striking manner, the thick darkness with which they are surrounded. Their weakness is strengthened, their darkness is illuminated, their influence is enlarged by that heaven-descended science, which has brought life and immortality to light. In compassion to the imperfection of our internal powers, our all-gracious Creator, Preserver, and Ruler has been pleased to discover and enforce his laws, by a revelation given to us immediately and directly from himself. This revelation is contained in the holy scriptures. The moral precepts delivered in the sacred oracles form a part of the law of nature, are of the same origin, and of the same obligation, operating universally and perpetually.

  "On some important subjects, those in particular, which relate to the Deity, to Providence, and to a future state, our natural knowledge is greatly improved, refined, and exalted by that which is revealed. On these subjects, one who has had the advantage of a common education in a christian country, knows more, and with more certainty, than was known by the wisest of the ancient philosophers.

  "One superiour advantage the precepts delivered in the sacred oracles clearly possess. They are, of all, the most explicit and the most certain. A publick minister, judging from what he knows of the interests, views, and designs of the state, which he represents, may take his resolutions and measures, in many cases, with confidence and safety; and may presume, with great probability, how the state itself would act. But if, besides this general knowledge, and these presumptions highly probable, he was furnished also with particular instructions for the regulation of his conduct; would he not naturally observe and govern himself by both rules? In cases, where his instructions are clear and positive, there would be an end of all farther deliberation. In other cases, where his instructions are silent, he would supply them by his general knowledge, and by the information, which he could collect from other quarters, concerning the counsels and systems of the commonwealth. Thus it is with regard to reason, conscience, and the holy scriptures. Where the latter give instructions, those instructions are supereminently authentick. But whoever expects to find, in them, particular directions for every moral doubt which arises, expects more than he will find. They generally presuppose a knowledge of the principles of morality; and are employed not so much in teaching new rules on this subject, as in enforcing the practice of those already known, by a greater certainty, and by new sanctions. They present the warmest recommendations and the strongest inducements in favour of virtue: they exhibit the most powerful dissuasives from vice. But the origin, the nature, and the extent of the several rights and duties they do not explain; nor do they specify in what instances one right or duty is entitled to preference over another. They are addressed to rational and moral agents, capable of previously knowing the rights of men, and the tendencies of actions; of approving what is good, and of disapproving what is evil.

  "These considerations show, that the scriptures support, confirm, and corroborate, but do not supercede the operations of reason and the moral sense. The information with regard to our duties and obligations, drawn from these different sources, ought not to run in unconnected and diminished channels: it should flow in one united stream, which, by its combined force and just direction, will impel us uniformly and effectually towards our greatest good."

• The substance of a speech delivered by James Wilson, Esq. Explanatory of the general principles of the proposed Federal Constitution; upon a motion made by the Honorable Thomas M'Kean, in the Convention of the State of Pennsylvania. On Saturday the 24th of November, 1787. Philadelphia: Printed and sold by Thomas Bradford, in Front-Street, four doors below the coffee-house, M,DCC,LXXXVII. [1787] 10, [2] pp.
  "Of these three species of government, however, I must observe, that they obtained no advocates in the Federal Convention, nor can I presume that they will find advocates here, or in any of our sister nates. The general sentiment in that body, and, I believe, the general sentiment of the citizens of America, is expressed in the motto which some of them have chosen, UNITE OR DIE; and while we consider the extent of the country, so intersected and almost surrounded with navigable rivers, so separated and detached from the rest of the world, it is natural to presume that Providence has disgned us for an united people, under one great political compact. If this is a just and reasonable conclusion, supported by the wishes of the people, the Convention did right in proposing a single confederated Republic."
• The Works of James Wilson, associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States: being his public discourses upon jurisprudence and the political science, including lectures as professor of law, 1790-2 / edited by James De Witt Andrews. CHAPTER XI. "OF CITIZENS AND ALIENS". Volume 2. Chicago, 1896. 2 vols.
• The Works of James Wilson, associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States: being his public discourses upon jurisprudence and the political science, including lectures as professor of law, 1790-2 / edited by James De Witt Andrews. CHAPTER XII. "OF THE NATURAL RIGHTS OF INDIVIDUALS". Volume 2. Chicago, 1896. 2 vols.
• The Works of James Wilson, associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States: being his public discourses upon jurisprudence and the political science, including lectures as professor of law, 1790-2 / edited by James De Witt Andrews. CHAPTER VI. OF CRIMES, AFFECTING SEVERAL OF THE NATURAL RIGHTS OF INDIVIDUALS." Volume 2. Chicago, 1896. 2 vols.
  "Profaneness and blasphemy are offences, punishable by fine and by imprisonment. Christianity is a part of the common law." p. 425. Citing 2 Str. 834, 4 Blackstone's Commentaries 59.
• Francis Hopkinson, 1737-1791. Account of the Grand Federal Procession, Philadelphia, July 4, 1788: To which is added, a letter on the same subject: (Price 5d. h.) [Philadelphia]: M. Carey, printer, [1788]. [2], 22 pp.; 20 cm. (8vo)
• James Wilson. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Presbyterian. Reverend. Read more about Witherspoon here and here and here

• The Dominion of Providence over the Passions of Man. A Sermon, preached at Princeton, on the 17th of May, 1776. To which is added, an address to the natives of Scotland, residing in America. By John Witherspoon. The second edition, with elucidating remarks. [Glasgow]: Philadelphia, printed: Glasgow re-printed; sold by the booksellers in town and country, 1777. 54 pp.; 80. Advertisement: "It hath been frequently said, by man persons of the best intelligence, that the unhappy commotions in our American colonies, have been considerably promoted, if not primarly agitated, by clerical influence: and none of that order have had a greater share of it ascribed to them than Dr. Witherspoon, though not credited by many of his favourites in this country. The following Sermon and Address, however, will fully justify the allegation, and silence the doctor's friends."
• The Absolute Necessity of Salvation through Christ. A Sermon, preached before the Society in Scotland for Propagating Christian Knowledge, in the High Church of Edinburgh, on Monday, January 2. 1758. By John Witherspoon. To which is subjoined a short account of the present state of the Society. Edinburgh: printed for W. Miller, 1758. [2], 90 pp.
  ... "[N]o man, whatever be his character or whatever be his hope, shall enter into rest unless he be reconciled to God though Jesus Christ."
  ... "[C]hrist Jesus - the promise of old made unto the fathers, the hope of Israel [Acts 28:20], the light of the world [John 8:12], and the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth [Romans 10:4] - is the only Savior of sinners, in opposition to all false religions and every uninstituted rite; as He Himself says (John 14:6): "I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me."
  ... "It is very evident that both the prophets in the Old Testament and the apostles in the New are at great pains to give us a view of the glory and dignity of the PERSON of CHRIST. With what magnificent titles is He adorned? What glorious attributes are ascribed to him? And what mighty works are said to be done by him? All these conspire to teach us that He is truly and properly God - God over all, blessed forever!"
  ... "I shall now conclude my discourse by preaching this Savior to all who hear me, and entreating you in the most earnest manner to believe in Jesus Christ; for there is no salvation in any other." [Acts 4:12] ... "[I]f you are not reconciled to God through Jesus Christ - if you are not clothed with the spotless robe of His righteousness - you must forever perish."
• Trial of Religious Truth by its moral influence. A sermon, preached at the opening of the synod of Glasgow and Air, October 9th, 1759. By J. Witherspoon, Glasgow: printed for James Wilken, in Paisley, 1759. 45, [1] pp.
• Ecclesiastical characteristics: or, The arcana of church policy Being an humble attempt, to open the mystery of moderation. Wherein is shewn, a plain and easy way of attaining to the character of a moderate man, as at present in repute in the Church of Scotland. [Philadelphia] :; London :; Printed, Philadelphia: Re-printed, by William and Thomas Bradford, at the London Coffee-House. The 7th edition. Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, 1767. 60 pp.; 21 cm. (8vo)
• Christian Magnaminity; A Sermon, preached at Princeton, September, 1775--the Sabbath preceeding the annual commencement; and again with additions, September 23, 1787. To which is added, an address to the senior class, who were to receive the degree of Bachelor of Arts. Princeton [N.J.] : Printed by James Tod., United States; New Jersey; Princeton, 1787. iv, 44 pp.; 21 cm. (8vo) Part 1 and Part 2.
• Varnum Lansing Collins, 1870-1936, editor. Lectures on Moral Philosophy. Also here. Princeton, N.J.,; Princeton university press, 1912. xxix, [2], 144 pp. 21 cm.
• Varnum Lansing Collins, 1870-1936. President Witherspoon. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1925. 2 vol.: ill.; 25 cm.
• The Works of the Rev. John Witherspoon, D.D. L.L.D. late president of the college, at Princeton New-Jersey. To which is prefixed an account of the author's life, in a sermon occasioned by his death, by the Rev. Dr. John Rodgers, of New York: In three volumes. Volume I[-III] Philadelphia: Printed and published by William W. Woodward, no. 17, Chesnut near Front Street, 1800. 3 volumes; 22 cm. (8vo). Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Extract from 2nd edition, 1802, Volume 4. "On the Georgia Constitution."
• Should Christians - Or Ministers - Run For Office?. Introduction by David Barton: "Founding Father John Witherspoon's sagacious rebuttal to the 1777 Georgia Constitution's provision forbidding clergymen from serving in the Georgia legislature."
• With John M. Mason. On liberality in religion : Taken from the Christian's magazine, edited by the Rev. Dr. Mason of New York; together with An inquiry into the Scripture meaning of charity. Portland, [Me.]: A. Lyman, J. M'Kown). Maine; Portland, 1811. 40 pp.
• John Rodgers. A Sketch of the Life and Character of JOHN WITHERSPOON, D. D. L. L. D. President of Princeton College. Extracted from a Sermon, preached on the Occasion of his Death. United States Christian Magazine, 1796, Vol. 1 Issue 2, pp. 127-141, 15 pp.
• John Witherspoon. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Congregationalist. Signer of the United States Declaration of Independence and also the Articles of Confederation as a representative of Connecticut. Read more about Wolcott here and here.

• Connecticut. Lieutenant Governor (1786-1796: Wolcott). By the Honourable Oliver Wolcott Esquire, Lieutenant Governor and Commander in chief of the state of Connecticut. A Proclamation. Hartford, 1790. 1 sheet; 39.5 x 32.5 cm.
  ... CONSIDERING that it becomes Mankind in their social relations to assemble at special and particular acknowledge their dependence upon their ALMIGHTY CREATOR.--to deprecate his displeasure and with true repentance to implore the Divine Mercy, favour and forgiveness;--and that it would please GOD to grant them every Spiritual and Temporal Blessing which their Condition requires.
  I HAVE therefore thought fit, by advice of Council, and according to the pious and laudable practice of our Ancestors, to appoint, and I do hereby appoint THURSDAY, the Fourteenth Day of April next, to be observed as a Day of PUPLICK HUMILIATION, FASTING, and PRAYER to ALMIGHTY GOD, throughout this State; hereby recommending to Ministers and People of every Society, Church and Congregation, that they respectively assemble on said day, and with true devotion, supplicate the divine mercy and favour towards us. That God would be pleased to pardon our Ingratitude to HIM, who is our Creator and Preserver, who hath supplied our wants from the bounties of HIS providence, has furnished us with the knowledge of HIS will, and provided for us a Saviour.--That God would be graciously pleased to pardon all our violations of HIS holy law, and ever incline us to obey HIS Will.--That it would please God to direct the Public Councils, and Administration of this State, and duly impress the minds of HIS People with the adverse dispensation of HIS providence in removing the Chief Magistrate thereof by death.--That God would preserve the health of HIS People;--grant them suitable seasons;--cause the Earth to yield her increase,--prosper and bless us in our husbandry and commerce, and in all our other lawful vocations;--and cause that the Ministers of the glorious Gospel of Christ Jesus may ever be the instrument of HIS praise.--That the United States of America may be under the protection of the Almighty, be preserved from the calamities of War, and continue richly to participate in the favours of divine providence.--That our National Council may be under the guidance of unerring Wisdom.--That it may please God to grant his direction and support to the President of the United States, prolong his important life, and continue him a blessing to our Nation.--That God would controul the rage of contending Nations, prepare them for, and establish them in the permanent enjoyment of their just rights and liberties.--And that God would cause the knowledge of the great Salvation to be spread throughout the world, and establish the peaceful Kingdom
  {Omitted text, 10w} of March, in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and nine[ty]-{Omitted text, 10w} Independence of the United States of America.
  OLIVER WOLCOTT.

• Connecticut. Lieutenant Governor (1787-1796: Wolcott) By the Honourable Oliver Wolcott Esquire ... A Proclamation: ... Thursday, the fourteenth day of April next, to be observed as a day of publick humiliation, fasting, and prayer ... Given under my hand in Litchfield this 16th day of March ... one thousand seven hundred and ninety-six. [Litchfield, Conn.? : Printed by Thomas Collier?, 1796]. 1 sheet: ill. (relief cut)

• Connecticut. Governor (1796-1797: Wolcott). By His Excellency Oliver Wolcott, Esquire ... A Proclamation. ... Thursday, the twenty-second day of December next, to be religiously observed as a day of Publick Thanksgiving ... Given at the city of New-Haven, the thirty-first day of October ... one thousand seven hundred and ninety-six New-Haven--: Printed by Thomas and Samuel Green, [1796]. 1 sheet. ill. (relief cut)

• Connecticut. Governor (1796-1797: Wolcott) By His Excellency Oliver Wolcott, Esq. Governor and commander in chief of the state of Connecticut, a Proclamation. [Litchfield, Conn.? : Printed by Thomas Collier?, 1797]. 1 sheet; 49 x 32.5 cm. Also here.
  AS it peculiarly becomes a Christian People, at particular and stated Seasons, by Humiliation and Prayer, to pay their devout Homage to Almighty GOD;--
  I HAVE thought proper to appoint, and do hereby appoint, FRIDAY, the Fourteenth Day of April next, to be observed as a Day of public Humiliation, FASTING and Prayer, throughout this State; recommending to all the People, in their solemn Assemblies, on that Day, devoutly to acknowledge their Dependance on the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and with sincere Repentance for our many Sins, humbly to implore, of a merciful God their Forgiveness and Remission, the gracious Aids of his Spirit, and the Blessings of his Providence.
  That he would continue to us and successive Generations, the Gospel of Peace and Salvation;--teach the Hearts of all Men to know its Truth and Excellence, and to obey its holy Precepts:--Succeed and Means of Education and Learning; bless our Youth, furnish their Minds with useful Knowledge, and enrich them with the christian Graces:--That he would smile on our Husbandry; give and preserve to us the goodly Fruits of the Earth:--Prosper our Commerce, restrain the arbitrary Enterprizes for extensively practiced upon it, and cause the Nations at War, to observe towards our Trade and Navigation, the Laws of Justice and good Faith;--save us from desolating Diseases; and grant that in all our lawful Business and Vocations, we may experience the Divine Care and Beneficence. And moreover, humbly to beseech the Throne of Grace, that the God of Wisdom would enlighten the public Councils of this State, thereby to increase the Means of social Improvement and Happiness among the People, and to confirm and perpetuate the public Order, Liberty and Tranquility.
  That the United States may continue to be under the Superintendence and holy Protection of the Sovereign Arbiter of Nations:--That he would inspire all our Citizens with a Love of their Country, and each other; cement our Union; impart to all Departments of the Government Wisdom and Integrity, uprightly and ably to conduct the public Interests confided to their Care:--Still continue graciously to smile on our earnest and faithful Endeavours to preserve our Peace;--cause the Negociations with the French Republic to issue in the Acknowledgment and secure Establishment of our just Rights, and the Restoration of Amity and good Agreement between the two Countries.
  And that it would please God to afford his gracious Aids to the President of the United States, in the Discharge of the arduous Duties on which he is entering; and that he may be enabled, by a wise and impartial Administration of them, to preserve that Confidence of the People in this Branch of our Government, by which it has been so eminently distinguished:--That the Benedictions of Heaven may attend the late President of the United States, in his Retirement from his long, useful and disinterested Services to our Country.
  And that God, who is the Author of Peace and Lover of Concord, would restrain the Rage, and Pride of warring Nations, and cause them to submit to righteous and equitable Terms of Peace.
  An that all those to whom the Ministration of the Gospel of Christ Jesus is committed, may be influenced by that Spirit which the Gospel is adapted to inspire; and that the Effect of their Ministration may be the Advancement of peaceful Kingdom of the Great Redeemer among Mankind.
  All servile Labour on said Day is forbidden.
  Given at Litchfield, this seventeenth Day of March, in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the twenty-first.
  OLIVER WOLCOTT.

• Connecticut. Governor (1796-1797: Wolcott). By his excellency Oliver Wolcott, Esq. Governor and Commander in chief of the State of Connecticut. A Proclamation... Litchfield, 1797. 1 sheet; 49 x 32.5 cm.
  AS it peculiarly becomes a Christian People, at particular and stated Seasons, by Humiliation and Prayer, to pay their devout Homage to Almighty GOD;--
  I HAVE thought proper to appoint, and do hereby appoint, FRIDAY, the Fourteenth Day of April next, to be observed as a Day of public Humiliation, FASTING and Prayer, throughout this State; recommending to all the People, in their solemn Assemblies, on that Day, devoutly to acknowledge their Dependance on the Supreme Rulerof the Universe, and with sincere Repentance for our many Sins, humbly to implore, of a merciful God their Forgiveness and Remission, the gracious Aids of his Spirit, and the Blessings of his Providence.
  That he would continue to us and successive Generations, the Gospel of Peace and Salvation;--teach the Hearts of all Men to know its Truth and Excellence, and to obey its holy Precepts:--Succeed and Means of Education and Learning; bless our Youth, furnish their Minds with useful Knowledge, and enrich them with the christian Graces:--That he would smile on our Husbandry; give and preserve to us the goodly Fruits of the Earth:--Prosper our Commerce, restrain the arbitrary Enterprizes for extensively practiced upon it, and cause the Nations at War, to observe towards our Trade and Navigation, the Laws of Justice and good Faith;--save us from desolating Diseases; and grant that in all our lawful Business and Vocations, we may experience the Divine Care and Beneficence. And moreover, humbly to beseech the Throne of Grace, that the God of Wisdom would enlighten the public Councils of this State, thereby to increase the Means of social Improvement and Happiness among the People, and to confirm and perpetuate the public Order, Liberty and Tranquility.
  That the United States may continue to be under the Superintendence and holy Protection of the Sovereign Arbiter of Nations:--That he would inspire all our Citizens with a Love of their Country, and each other; cement our Union; impart to all Departments of the Government Wisdom and Integrity, uprightly and ably to conduct the public Interests confided to their Care:--Still continue graciously to smile on our earnest and faithful Endeavours to preserve our Peace;--cause the Negociations with the French Republic to issue in the Acknowledgment and secure Establishment of our just Rights, and the Restoration of Amity and good Agreement between the two Countries.
  And that it would please God to afford his gracious Aids to the President of the United States, in the Discharge of the arduous Duties on which he is entering; and that he may be enabled, by a wise and impartial Administration of them, to preserve that Confidence of the People in this Branch of our Government, by which it has been so eminently distinguished:--That the Benedictions of Heaven may attend the late President of the United States, in his Retirement from his long, useful and disinterested Services to our Country.
  And that God, who is the Author of Peace and Lover of Concord, would restrain the Rage, and Pride of warring Nations, and cause them to submit to righteous and equitable Terms of Peace.
  An that all those to whom the Ministration of the Gospel of Christ Jesusis committed, may be influenced by that Spirit which the Gospel is adapted to inspire; and that the Effect of their Ministration may be the Advancement of peaceful Kingdom of the Great Redeemeramong Mankind.
  All servile Labour on said Day is forbidden.
  Given at Litchfield, this seventeenth Day of March, in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the twenty-first.

• Connecticut. Governor (1796-1797: Wolcott). By His Excellency Oliver Wolcott, Esquire, governor and commander in chief of the state of Connecticut: a Proclamation. ... Thursday the sixteenth day of November next to be observed as a day of Publick Thanksgiving and prayer ... Given at Litchfield, this 25th day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety seven New-Haven: --Printed by T. & S. Green, [1797]. 1 sheet.

• Oliver Wolcott. From A Biography of the signers of the Declaration of independence: and of Washington and Patrick Henry. With an appendix, containing the Constitution of the United States and other documents, Volume 2 of 2. J. Dobson, and Thomas, Cowperthwait & co., 1839.

Episcopalian. American lawyer, a judge, a prominent law professor, signer of the United States Declaration of Independence and "Virginia's foremost classical scholar." Read about Wythe here and here

• Virginia. General Assembly. House of Burgesses. Tuesday, the 24th of May, 14 Geo. III. 1774: This House being deeply impressed with apprehension of the great dangers to be derived to British America, from the hostile invasion of the city of Boston, in our sister colony of Massachusetts Bay, whose commerce and harbour are on the 1st day of June next to be stopped by an armed force, deem it highly necessary that the first day of June be set apart by the members of this House as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer. [Williamsburg, Va.: Printed by Clementina Rind, 1774]. 1 sheet.

• Oration Pronounced at the Funeral of George Wythe. Raleigh Register, v. 7, June 30, 1806, pp. 1-2. "I think it particularly important to state that he was a christian. He communicated to me himself, a year or two before his death, his full conviction of the truth of the Christian Religion, and, on his death bed, often prayed to Jesus Christ his Saviour for relief. But death he did not dread, expressing only a wish to lay down his life with ease, observing, that, alas! it was a pity it should be so hard for a man to die!"
• GEORGE WYTHE, Esq. American Law Journal & Miscellaneous Repertory, 1810, Vol. 3 Issue 1, pp. 93-99, 7 pp. Also here.
• Biographical sketch of George Wythe. The Evening Fire-Side; or, Literary Miscellany (1804-1806). Philadelphia: August 2, 1806. Vol. 2, Iss. 31; p. 6.
• Eulogium on the Late Chancellor Wythe, of Virginia; Pronounced by a Genleman of the Bar Before a Respectable Audience in the Western Part of Virginia, July, 1806. The Massachusetts Missionary Magazine, Containing Religious and Interesting Communications, Calculated to Edify Christians, June 1807. Vol. 5, Iss. 1; p. 10.
• Memoirs of the Late George Wythe, Esquire; With a correct likeness. The American Gleaner and Virginia Magazine (1807-1807). Richmond: January 24, 1807. Vol. 1, Iss. 1; p. 1.
  At this period he acquired that attachment to the Christian religion and reverence for its truths, which, although his faith was afterwards shaken by the difficulties suggested by sceptical writers, never altogether forsook him, and towards the close of his life was renovated and firmly established. For many years he constantly attended church, and the bible was his favourite book, as he has often informed the author. But he never connected himself with any sect of Christians, being of opinion that every sect had more or less corrupted the purity of the system of religion taught in the scriptures, and being an utter enemy to all intolerance and pretences to excluslve holiness. He thought that all good men would be entitled to a seat in the kingdom of Heaven, and endeavoured by his own upright and benevolent conduct to deserve one himself.
• Eulogium on the late Chancellor Wythe, of Virginia; Pronounced by a Gentleman of the Bar Before a Respectable Audience in the Western Part of Virginia--July, 1806. From The Massachusetts Missionary Magazine, for the Year 1807, vol. 5. Boston: Printed by E. Lincoln, Water Street, 1807. "It has lately been emphatically expressed, that Socrates died like a philosopher. But he in his last hour also displayed the fortitude and resignation of a Christian. What a sublime example!"
• Biographical Sketch of George Wythe. From The Evening Fire-Side; or Literary Miscellany, v. 2, n. 31. Philadelphia, August 2, 1806.
• Nathaniel Dwight. George Wythe. From The Lives of the Signers of the Declaration of independence.

Baptist preacher. Delegate to the First Continental Congress. Founded Rhode Island College, later Brown University. Learn about Backus here.

• A History of New-England, with particular reference to the denomination of Christians called Baptists. Containing the first principles and settlements of the country; the rise and increase of the Baptist churches therein; the intrusion of arbitrary power under the cloak of religion; the Christian testimonies of the Baptists and others against the same, with their sufferings under it, from the begining [sic] to the present time. Collected from most authentic records and writings, both ancient and modern. By Isaac Backus, Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Middleborough. [Four lines of quotations]. Vol. 1 of 3. Boston, 1777[-1796]. 575 pp.
• A Church history of New-England, with particular reference to the denomination of Christians called Baptists. Containing the first principles and settlements of the country; the rise and increase of the Baptist churches therein; the intrusion of arbitrary power under the cloak of religion; the Christian testimonies of the Baptists and others against the same, with their sufferings under it, from the begining [sic] to the present time. Collected from most authentic records and writings, both ancient and modern. By Isaac Backus, Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Middleborough. [Four lines of quotations]. Vol. 2 of 3. Extending from 1690, to 1784. Boston, 1777[-1796]. 447 pp.
• A Church history of New-England. Extending from 1783 to 1796. Vol. III. By Isaac Backus, Boston [Mass.], 1796. 336 pp. Vol. 3 of 3.
• Spiritual ignorance causeth men to counter-act their doctrinal knowledge. A discourse from Acts xiii. 27. By Isaac Backus, Pastor of a church of Providence, in New-England, M.DCC.LXIII. [1763]. 31 pp.
• True faith will produce good works. A discourse, wherein are opened the nature of faith, and its powerful influence on the heart and life; Boston, 1767. 93 pp.
• A Fish caught in his own net. An examination of nine sermons, from Matt. 16. 18. published last year, by Mr Joseph Fish of Stonington; wherein he labours to prove, that those called standing churches in New-England, are built upon the rock, and upon the same principles with the first fathers of this country: and that Separates and Baptists are joining with the gates of hell against them. In answer to which; many of his mistakes are corrected; the constitution of those churches opened; the testimonies of prophets and apostles, and also of many of those fathers are produced, which as plainly condemn his plan, as any Separate or Baptist can do. By Isaac Backus. Pastor of a church of Christ in Middleborough. [Six lines of quotations]. Boston, MDCCLXVIII. [1768].
• A Seasonable plea for liberty of conscience, against some late oppressive proceedings; particularly in the town of Berwick, in the county of York. Boston, 1770. 46 pp.
• A Letter to a gentleman in the Massachusetts General Assembly, concerning taxes to support religious worship. [One line from Elihu] 22, [2] pp. 20 cm. (4to)
• An Appeal to the public for religious liberty, against the oppressions of the present day. [Three lines from Galatians]. Boston, MDCCLXXIII. [1773]. 62 pp.
  • An Appeal to the Public for Religious Liberty Against the Oppressions of the Present Day.
    The true liberty of man is, to know, obey and enjoy his Creator, and to do all the good unto, and enjoy all the happiness with and in his fellow-creatures that he is capable of; in order to which the law of love was written in his heart, which carries in it's nature union and benevolence to being in general, and to each being in particular, according to it's nature and excellency, and to it's relation and connexion to and with the supreme Being, and ourselves. Each rational soul, as he is a part of the whole system of rational beings, so it was and is, both his duty and his liberty to regard the good of the whole in all his actions. To love ourselves, and truly to seek our own welfare, is both our liberty and our indispensible duty; but the conceit that man could advance either his honor or happiness, by disobedience instead of obedience, was first injected by the father of lies, and all such conceits ever since are as false as he is.
• A Plea Before the Massachusetts Legislature. 1774.
• Government and liberty described: and ecclesiastical tyranny exposed. Massachusetts-state: Boston, [1778]. 19 pp.
• Policy, as well as honesty, forbids the use of secular force in religious affairs. Massachusetts-state: Boston, 1779. 25 pp.
• An Appeal to the people of the Massachusetts state, against arbitrary power. [Four lines of Scripture texts]. 8 pp. 20 cm. (4to) 1780.
• The Doctrine of universal salvation examined and refuted. Containing, a concise and distinct answer to the writings of Mr. Relly, and Mr. Winchester, upon that subject. By Isaac Backus, Preacher of the Gospel. [Three lines from Jude] 1782. 40 p. 19 cm. (4to)
• A door opened for equal Christian liberty, and no man can shut it. This proved by plain facts. [Five lines of Scripture texts]. 15, [1] p. 21 cm. (4to) 1783.
• An Address to the inhabitants of New-England, concerning the present bloody controversy therein. Boston: Printed and sold by S. Hall, 1787. 6 pp.; 19 cm.
• Hovey, Alvah. A Memoir of the life and times of the Rev. Isaac Backus, A.M.. Boston, 1858. 381 pp.

Presbyterian; Episcopalian. American politician, Founding Father and jurist. Read about Blair in the Biographical Directory of Federal Judges and here.

• Wickham, Henry Taylor, 1849- . An Address by Henry T. Wickham, esq., of Virginia, at a special session of the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, held at Philadelphia, Pa., Tuesday, May sixth, 1913, on the occasion of the presentation on behalf of the Virginia Bar Association of a portrait of Hon. John Blair, Jr., from 1789 to 1796 a justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. Richmond? Va., 1913. 30 pp. incl. front. (port.) 26 cm. "The state of Virginia was originally included in the Middle Circuit, the predecessor of the Third Circuit. This portrait was presented on behalf of the Virginia Bar Association, by William A. Glasgow, Jr., a member of both the Virginia and the Pennsylvania bars." p. [4].

Philosopher and mathematician. Read more about Bishop Madison here. Scroll to the bottom of the page

• A Discourse on the Death of General Washington, late President of the United States: delivered on the 22d of February, 1800, in the church in Williamsburg.
• A Sermon preached before the Convention of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the state of Virginia, on the twenty sixth of May, 1786. Richmond: Printed by Thomas Nicolson, 1786. 32 pp.; 21 cm. (4to)
• An Oration, in commemoration of the founders of William and Mary College, delivered on the anniversary of its foundation, August 15, 1772.. Williamsburg [Va.]: Printed by William Rind, 1772. 14 pp.
• Madison, James, 1749-1812. A Sermon, preached in the county of Botetourt, on the 13th of September [i.e. December], 1781, Being the day appointed by Congress to be observed with prayer and thanksgiving. Richmond: Printed by Nicolson & Prentis, opposite the prison., 1781. 19, [1] pp.: ill.
• Madison, James, 1749-1812. Manifestations of the beneficence of Divine Providence towards America: A Discourse, delivered on Thursday the 19th of February, 1795, being the day recommended by the president of the United States, for general thanksgiving and prayer. / By Bishop Madison; Published at the request of the auditors. Richmond: Printed by Thomas Nicolson, 1795. 23, [1] pp.; 19 cm.

First minister of Norfolk, Connecticut, 1761-1813. Chaplain in the American army in the northern campaign of 1776.

• The Empires and Dominions of this world, made subservient to the kingdom of Christ; who ruleth over all. A sermon, delivered in presence of His Excellency Samuel Huntington, Esq. L.L.D. governor, and the Honorable the General Assembly of the state of Connecticut, convened at Hartford, on the day of the anniversary election. May 14th, 1789. By Ammi R. Robbins, A.M. Pastor of the church in Norfolk. [Four lines from Daniel]. 39, [1] p. 20 cm. (8vo)
• Journal of the Rev. Ammi R. Robbins, a chaplain in the American army, in the northern campaign of 1776. 1850.
• A half-century sermon delivered at Norfolk, October 28, 1811: fifty years from the ordination of the author to the work of the ministry in that place. Peter B. Gleason, 1811. 24 pp.

First President of the United States. Read more about Washington here.

• W. R. Miller, compiler. George Washington: His Christian Faith in His Own Words. 162 pp. Word document. Primary source documentation of his attendence at church and service as a Christian. Washington's writings include his recommendations for chaplains to serve in the army, his promotion of Christianity through Thanksgiving proclamations and General Orders to his troops and in other public addresses. This essay includes testimony from his daughter, Eleanor (Nelly) Parke Custis Lewis (1779-1852) regarding Washington's religious beliefs.
• W. R. Miller, compiler. George Washington: Advocate of Prayer and Worship, in His Own Words. 58 pp. Word document. Companion piece to the above compilation, these records come from Washington's diaries, general orders as Commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, and proclamations as President of the United States. This documents his personal prayer life, and his recommendations of prayer to God for his troops, and for the American nation.
• Christian Answers.netWas George Washington a Christian?
• David Barton. Was George Washington a Christian?
• David Barton. Did George Washington Actually Say 'So Help Me God' During His Inauguration?. Posted December 2011.
• William Jackson Johnstone. George Washington, the Christian. Published by The Abingdon Press, 1919. 299 pp. Original from the New York Public Library.
• Clinton Locke. George Washington's Faith. Chicago Tribune, June 24, 1889, p. 6, Column F.
• D. C. Garrett. George Washington: He Was a Christian and a Communicant. Morning Oregonian (Portland, OR), Issue 11,602. Thursday, February 17, 1898; pg. 7, Column A. Corrections: Garrett refers to Sewall of New Hampshire as "Newhall" and Dr. Berrian as "Dr. Berlen."
• Washington's Religion: A Rejoinder from Dr. Garrett, of Trinity (Letter to the editor). Morning Oregonian (Portland, OR), Issue 11,615. Friday, March 04, 1898; pg. 6, Column F.
• Bring on the Prayerbook. Arguments from W. A. Cruffet, Rebecca S. Price and Wm. F. Carne regarding Washington's Christianity. Washington Post, July 20, 1903, p. 10.
• The Colonial Vestry Book of Truro Parish.
  • Augustine Washington (father of George Washington) sworn in as vestryman (1735). Page 11.
  • Augustine Washington nominates Charles Green as Truro Parish's first Rector (1736). Page 12.
  • George Washington elected to the vestry (1762). Page 80. October 25, 1762.
  • George Washington recommends Lee Massey to be the rector of Truro Parish (1766). Page 109.
  • George Washington to procure linens and prayer books for Polick Church (1773). Page 161.
  • Philip Slaughter. The History of Truro Parish in Virginia. Published by George W. Jacobs & Company, Publishers, Philadelphia, 1907. 1908 edition here. Published by G.W. Jacobs & Co., 1908. 164 pp.

    WASHINGTON AS A CHURCH-GOER
    In a popular work entitled "The True George Washington," by the late Paul Leicester Ford, the brilliant author devotes a few pages only to a subject which demands a far more accurate and sympathetic treatment than is given to it, namely, Washington's religious training and habits. Referring to Washington's services as a Vestryman, it is acknowledged that he was "Quite active in Church affairs;" but in touching these the author not only repeats all the traditional errors which, for lack of authentic data, have been made by previous writers on this subject, but he falls into a number of new and strange ones, and becomes involved in a most curious labyrinth of inaccuracies. All these the foregoing pages will correct.

  • W.M. Clark. Colonial Churches: A Series of Sketches of Churches in the Original Colony of Virginia, with Pictures of Each Church. Published by Southern churchman co., 1907. 319 pages.
    "At a Vestry held for Truro Parish October 25, 1762," so the old vestry book states, it was "Ordered, that George Washington Esqr. be chosen and appointed one of the Vestrymen of this Parish, in the room of William Peake, Gent, deceased." And the court records show that "At a Court held for the County of Fairfax, 15th February, 1763, George Washington Esqr. took the oaths according to Law repeated and subscribed the Test and subscribed to the Doctrine and Discipline of the Church of England in order to qualify him to act as a Vestryman of Truro Parish.
    These numerous oaths and subscriptions, which the law was explicit in requiring of every vestryman, are not without interest in this connection. The well-known test oath was in these words: "I do declare that I do believe there is not any Transubstantiation in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, or in the elements of Bread and Wine at or after the Consecration thereof by any person whatsoever." For the subscription to the doctrine and discipline of the Church of England there was no formula prescribed by law. The other oaths, too long to be reproduced here, are to be found in the Statutes at Large of England, First of George I., stat. 2, c. 13, and may also be seen, with slight errors in transcription, in Bishop Meade's Old Churches, &c., Vol. II., p. 4.
    --p. 110.
  • Bishop William Meade. Old Churches, Ministers and Families of Virginia, Vol II. Published by J. B. Lippincott Company, 1900. Article 68. The Religious Character of Washington, pp. 242-255. Also, Appendix No. 23. Further Statements Concerning the Religious Character of Washington and the Question Whether He was a Communicant or Not, pp. 490-495.
• William Montgomery Brown. The Church for Americans ...: Revised and Enlarged 10th edition. Published by T. Whittaker, 1899. 501 pp. Washington a Communicant.
• Religious Opinions and Character of George Washington.
• News from America. Morning Chronicle and London Advertiser (London, England), Monday, June 10, 1776; Issue 2201. Extracts from the New York Constitutional Gazette, April 10 and April 17. The Address of the honorable Council and House of Representatives to his Excellency George Washington, Esq.; General and Commander in Chief of the Forces of the United Colonies.
  ... "The Supreme Ruler of the Universe having smiled on our arms, and crowned your labours with remarkable success, we are now, without that effusion of blood we so much wished to avoid, again in the quiet possession of our capital; the wisdom and prudence of those movements, which have obliged the enemy to abandon our metropolis, will be ever remembered by the inhabitants of this colony. May you still go on approved by Heaven, revered by all good men, and dreaded by those tyrants who claim their fellow men as their property!" ...

  With reply by Washington:
  ..."When the councils of the British nation had formed a plan for enslaving America, and depriving her sons of their most sacred and invaluable privileges, against the clearest remonstrances of the constitution--of justice and of truth; and to execute their schemes, had appealed to the sword, I esteemed it my duty to take a part in the contest, and more especially, on account of my being called thereto by the unsolicited representatives of a free people; wishing for no other reward than that arising from a conscientious discharge of the important trust, and that my services might contribute to the establishment of freedom and peace, upon a permanent foundation, and merit the applause of my countrymen, and every virtuous citizen."
  ... "That the metropolis of your colony is now relieved from the cruel and oppressive invasion of those who were sent to erect the standard of lawless domination, and to trample on the rights of humanity, and is again open and free for its rightful possessors, must give pleasure to every virtuous and sympathetic heart, and being effected without the blood of our soldiers and fellow citizens, must be ascribed to the interposition of that Providence, which has manifestly appeared in our behalf through the whole of this important struggle, as well as to the measures pursued for bringing about the happy event.
  "May that Being who is powerful to save, and in whose hands is the fate of nations, look down with an eye of tender pity and compassion upon the whole of the United colonies; may he continue to smile upon their counsels and arms, and crown them with success, whilst employed in the cause of virtue and mankind. May this distressed colony and its capital, and every part of this wide extended continent, through his divine favour, be restored to more than their former lustre and once happy state, and have peace, liberty, and safely secured upon a solid, permanent, and lasting foundation."

• Letter to Burwell Bassett, August 28, 1762 . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor. "I was favoured with your Epistle wrote on a certain 25th of July when you ought to have been at Church, praying as becomes every good Christian Man who has as much to answer for as you have; strange it is that you will be so blind to truth that the enlightning sounds of the Gospel cannot reach your Ear, nor no Examples awaken you to a sense of Goodness; could you but behold with what religious zeal I hye me to Church on every Lords day, it would do your heart good, and fill it I hope with equal fervency; ..."
• Letter to Robert Stewart, April 27, 1763. . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• Letter to Colonel Benedict Arnold, Camp at Cambridge, September 14, 1775 . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• Instructions to Colonel Benedict Arnold, September 14, 1775 . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• General Orders, Head Quarters, Cambridge, February 26, 1776 . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.

  "All Officers, non-commissioned Officers and Soldiers are positively forbid playing at Cards, and other Games of Chance. At this time of public distress, men may find enough to do in the service of their God, and their Country, without abandoning themselves to vice and immorality."

• General Orders, Head Quarters, New York, July 9, 1776 . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.

  "The Hon. Continental Congress having been pleased to allow a Chaplain to each Regiment, with the pay of Thirty-three Dollars and one third per month 'The Colonels or commanding officers of each regiment are directed to procure Chaplains accordingly; persons of good Characters and exemplary lives' To see that all inferior officers and soldiers pay them a suitable respect and attend carefully upon religious exercises. The blessing and protection of Heaven are at all times necessary but especially so in times of public distress and danger'The General hopes and trusts that every officer and man will endeavor to live and act as becomes a Christian soldier defending the dearest rights and liberties of his country."

  • President Abraham Lincoln General Order Respecting The Observance Of The Sabbath, November 15, 1862 .

    GENERAL ORDER RESPECTING THE OBSERVANCE OF THE SABBATH DAY IN THE ARMY AND NAVY

    EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, November 15, 1862

    The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy, desires and enjoins the orderly observance of the Sabbath by the officers and men in the military and naval service. The importance for men and beast of the prescribed weekly rest, the sacred rights of Christian soldiers and sailors, a becoming deference to the best sentiment of a Christian people, and a due regard for the divine will demand that Sunday labor in the Army and Navy be reduced to the measure of strict necessity. The discipline and character of the national forces should not suffer nor the cause they defend be imperiled by the profanation of the day or name of the Most High. 'At this time of public distress,' adopting the words of Washington in 1776, 'men may find enough to do in the service of God and their country without abandoning themselves to vice and immorality.' The first general order issued by the Father of his Country after the Declaration of Independence indicates the spirit in which our institutions were founded and should ever be defended:

    The General hopes and trusts that every officer and man will endeavor to live and act as becomes a Christian soldier defending the dearest rights and liberties of his country.

    ABRAHAM LINCOLN

• The Corporation of Harvard College at Cambridge, In New England. [DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF LAWS Conferred By Harvard College On George Washington.] The following is a translation of the Diploma from the University of Cambridge, in New England, to his Excellency GEORGE WASHINGTON, Esq; Captain General and Commander in Chief of the Forces of the United Colonies in North America. London Evening Post, (London, England), October 5, 1776 - October 8, 1776; Issue 8511.

  The Corporation of Harvard College at Cambridge, in New England, to all faithful in Christ, to whom these presents shall come. Greeting. Boston,-April 3, 1776.

  Whereas academical degrees were originally instituted for this purpose, that men, eminent for knowledge, wisdom and virtue, who have highly merited of the republic of letters, should be rewarded with the honor of these laurels, there is the greatest propriety in conferring such honor on that very illustrious gentleman, George Washington, esq., the accomplished general of the confederated colonies in America; whose knowledge and patriotic ardor are manifest to all; who, for his distinguished virtues, both civil and military, in the first place being elected by the suffrages of the Virginians one of their delegates, exerted himself with fidelity and singular wisdom in the celebrated congress in America, for the defence of liberty, when in the utmost danger of being forever lost, and for the salvation of his country, and then at the earnest request of that grand council of patriots, without hesitation, left all the pleasures of his delightful seat in Virginia, and the affairs of his own estate, that, through all the fatigues and dangers of camp, without accepting any reward, he might deliver New England from the unjust and cruel arms of Great Britain, and defend the other colonies; and who, by the most signal smiles of Divine Providence on his military operations, drove the fleet and troops of the enemy with disgraceful precipitation from the town of Boston, which for eleven months had been shut, fortified and defended by a garrison of above 7,000 regulars; so that the inhabitants, who suffered a great variety of hardships and cruelties while under the power of their oppressors, now rejoice in their deliverance; the neighboring towns are also freed from the tumults of arms, and our university has the agreeable prospect of being restored to its ancient seat.

  Know ye, therefore, that we, the president and fellows of Harvard College in Cambridge, (with the consent of the honored and reverend overseers of our academy) have constituted and created the aforesaid gentleman, GEORGE WASHINGTON, who merits the highest honor, DOCTOR OF LAWS, the law of nature and nations, and the civil law; and have given and granted him at the same time all rights, privileges and honors to the said degree pertaining.

  In testimony whereof, we have affixed the common seal of our university to these letters, and subscribed them with our hand-writing, this third day of April, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six.

  Samuel Langdon, S. T. D. Preses.
  Nathaniel Appleton, S. T. D.
  Johannes Winthrop, Mat. et. Phi. P.
  Andreas Elliot, S. T. D. (Hoi.) LL. D.
  Samuel Cooper, S. T. D.
  Johans Wadsworth, Log. et. Eth. Pre.
  

• General Orders, May 2, 1778The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• General Orders, June 30, 1778 The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• Speech to the Delaware Chiefs, Head Quarters, Middle Brook, May 12, 1779 . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• General Orders, November 27, 1779 . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• Circular Letter of farewell to the Army/Circular to the States, 8 June 1783: Introduction: here; Original: here; Transcript: here and here and here.

  I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have you, and the State over which you preside, in his holy protection, that he would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government, to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their fellow Citizens of the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the Field, and finally, that he would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all, to do Justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that Charity, humility and pacific temper of mind, which were the Characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed Religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy Nation.

• A Circular letter from His Excellency General Washington, to the several states, called his legacy, being his last public communication. Annapolis, [1783]. 29 pp. Also here.
  • America--The Royal Gazette Extraordinary, New-York, July 12, 1783. A Circular letter from His Excellency General Washington, Commander in Chief of the Armies of the United States of Amerrica [sic]. Dated June the 18th, 1783. Gazetteer and New Daily Advertiser, (London, England), Wednesday, August 13, 1783; Issue 17,058.
  • George Washington to Continental Army, November 2, 1783, Farewell Orders. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.

    A contemplation of the compleat attainment (at a period earlier than could have been expected) of the object for which we contended against so formidable a power cannot but inspire us with astonishment and gratitude. The disadvantageous circumstances on our part, under which the war was undertaken, can never be forgotten. The singular interpositions of Providence in our feeble condition were such, as could scarcely escape the attention of the most unobserving; while the unparalleled perseverence of the Armies of the U States, through almost every possible suffering and discouragement for the space of eight long years, was little short of a standing miracle.
    ... To the various branches of the Army the General takes this last and solemn opportunity of professing his inviolable attachment and friendship. He wishes more than bare professions were in his power, that he were really able to be useful to them all in future life. He flatters himself however, they will do him the justice to believe, that whatever could with propriety be attempted by him has been done, and being now to conclude these his last public Orders, to take his ultimate leave in a short time of the military character, and to bid a final adieu to the Armies he has so long had the honor to Command, he can only again offer in their behalf his recommendations to their grateful country, and his prayers to the God of Armies. May ample justice be done them here, and may the choicest of heaven's favours, both here and hereafter, attend those who, under the devine auspices, have secured innumerable blessings for others; with these wishes, and this benediction, the Commander in Chief is about to retire from Service. The Curtain of seperation will soon be drawn, and the military scene³⁰ to him will be closed for ever.³¹
    [Note 30: The word "Scene" is inadvertently omitted.]
    [Note 31: From the copy in the writing of John Singer Dexter, assistant adjutant general of the Continental Army. From this paper, presumably, the orders were read to the troops then at West Point. It is indorsed by Brig Gen. James Clinton: "Genl Washington farewell orders to the Army in 1783." It is now (1937) on deposit in the Library of Congress. The draft, in the writing of David Cobb, is in the Washington Papers.]

• To the President of Congress, Mount Vernon, February 8, 1785. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• George Washington to Selina S. Hastings, June 30, 1785. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• Letter to George Mason, Mount Vernon, October 3, 1785 . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor. To Marquis De LaFayette, Philadelphia, August 15, 1787. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799.
• John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor. George Washington to Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, February 7, 1788. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799.
  "[T]he [federal] government . . . can never be in danger of degenerating into a monarchy, and oligarchy, an aristocracy, or any other despotic or oppressive form so long as there shall remain any virtue in the body of the people."
• George Washington to John Ettwein, May 2, 1788. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• George Washington to Congress, April 30, 1789/First Inaugural Address, 30 April 1789: Introduction: here; Original: here and here; Transcription: here and here and here and here.

  Such being the impressions under which I have, in obedience to the public summons, repaired to the present station, it would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official act my fervent supplications to that Almighty Being who rules over the universe, who presides in the councils of nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human defect, that His benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the people of the United States a Government instituted by themselves for these essential purposes, and may enable every instrument employed in its administration to execute with success the functions allotted to his charge. In tendering this homage to the Great Author of every public and private good, I assure myself that it expresses your sentiments not less than my own, nor those of my fellow-citizens at large less than either. No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the Invisible Hand which conducts the affairs of men more than those of the United States.

  Having thus imparted to you my sentiments as they have been awakened by the occasion which brings us together, I shall take my present leave; but not without resorting once more to the benign Parent of the Human Race in humble supplication that, since He has been pleased to favor the American people with opportunities for deliberating in perfect tranquillity, and dispositions for deciding with unparalleled unanimity on a form of government for the security of their union and the advancement of their happiness, so His divine blessing may be equally conspicuous in the enlarged views, the temperate consultations, and the wise measures on which the success of this Government must depend.

• Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Society of Friends. To the President of the United States. The address of the religious society called Quakers, from their yearly meeting for Pennsylvania, New-Jersey, Delaware, and the western parts of Virginia and Maryland. 1789. 1 sheet ([1] p.) 34 x 21 cm. With response by Washington.
• Letter to General Assembly of Presbyterian Churches/George Washington to Presbyterian Church General Assembly, May 1789: here; Transcript: here
• George Washington to Virginia Baptists General Committee/Letter to the General Committee of the United Baptist Churches in Virginia, May 10, 1789: here; Transcript: here.
• Address of the House of Representatives to George Washington, President of the United States. May 5, 1789.
  ... This anticipation is not justified merely by the past experience of your signal services. It is particularly suggested by the pious impressions under which you commence your Administration and the enlightened maxims by which you mean to conduct it. We feel with you the strongest obligations to adore the Invisible Hand which has led the American people through so many difficulties, to cherish a conscious responsibility for the destiny of republican liberty, and to seek the only sure means of preserving and recommending the precious deposit in a system of legislation founded on the principles of an honest policy and directed by the spirit of a diffusive patriotism.
  ... All that remains is that we join in our fervent supplications for the blessings of Heaven on our country, and that we add our own for the choicest of these blessings on the most beloved of her citizens.
• Message in Reply to the House of Representatives, May 8, 1789.
  GENTLEMEN: Your very affectionate address produces emotions which I know not how to express. I feel that my past endeavors in the service of my country are far overpaid by its goodness, and I fear much that my future ones may not fulfill your kind anticipation. All that I can promise is that they will be invariably directed by an honest and an ardent zeal. Of this resource my heart assures me. For all beyond I rely on the wisdom and patriotism of those with whom I am to cooperate and a continuance of the blessings of Heaven on our beloved country.
• Letter to George Mason, July 6, 1789 . The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• The Thanksgiving Proclamation, October 3, 1789, Introduction, Transcription, Original

  Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor--and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me "to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness."

• John C. Fitzpatrick, editor. Address to the Synod of the Dutch Reformed Church in North America, October 9, 1789.. The Writings of George Washington, Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1932, Vol. XXX, p. 432 n.
  "You, Gentlemen, act the part of pious Christians and good citizens by your prayers and exertions to preserve that harmony and good will towards men which must be the basis of every political establishment; and I readily join with you that 'while just government protects all in their religious rights, true religion affords to government its surest support.'
  I am deeply impressed with your good wishes for my present and future happiness--and I beseech the Almighty to take you and yours under his special care.
  G. Washington."
• Letter to the First Presbytery of the Eastward, Newburyport, October 28. Text is referenced in The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources, 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor. Complete text here. Published in The Massachusetts Centinel, December 5, 1789. See below.
  
• To the Ministers and Ruling Elders delegated to represent the Churches in Massachusetts and New-Hampshire, which compose the first Presbytery of the Eastward. Published in Massachusetts Centinel, vol. XII, iss. 24, December 5, 1789, page 96.

  "The tribute of thanksgiving, which you offer to the gracious Father of Lights, for his inspiration of our publick councils with wisdom and firmness to complete the National Constitution, is worthy of men, who, devoted to the pious purposes of religion, desire their accomplishment by such means as advance the temporal happiness of their fellow men. And, here, I am persuaded, you will permit me to observe, that the path of true piety is so plain, as to require but little political direction.
  "To this consideration we ought to ascribe the absence of any regulation respecting religion from the Magna Charta of our country, to the guidance of the Ministers of the Gospel, this important object is, perhaps, more properly committed. It will be your care to instruct the ignorant, and to reclaim the devious: And in the progress of morality and science, to which our Government will give every furtherance, we may confidently expect the advancement of true religion, and the completion of our happiness.
  "I pray the munificent Rewarder of virtue, that your agency in this work, may receive its compensation here and hereafter."
  

• To Richard Cary, New York, November 23, 1789. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• The Address of the Roman Catholics to George Washington, Esq. President of the United States; and George Washington's Answer. Diary or Woodfall's Register (London, England), Friday, July 30, 1790; Issue 419.
  John Carroll (in behalf of the Roman Catholic Clergy); Charles Carroll, of Carrolton, Daniel Carroll, Dominick Lynch, Thomas Fitzsimons (in behalf of the Roman Catholic Laity).

  ... You encourage respect for religion, and inculcate, by words and actions, that principle on which the welfare of nations so much depends--that a superintending Providence governs the events of the world and watches over the conduct of men. Your exalted maxims and unwearied attention to the moral and physical improvement of our country have produced already the happiest effects. Under your administration, America is animated with zeal for the attainment and encouragement of useful literature; she improves agriculture, extends her commerce, and acquires with foreign nations a dignity unknown to her before. From these happy events, in which none can feel a warmer interest than ourselves, we derive additional pleasure by recollecting that you, sir, have been the principal instrument to effect so rapid a change in our political situation. This prospect of national prosperity is peculiarly pleasing to us on another account; because, whilst our country preserves her freedom and independence, we shall have a well-founded title to claim from her justice the equal rights of citizenship, as the price of our blood spilt under your eyes, and of our common exertions for her defence, under your auspicious conduct--rights rendered more dear to us by the remembrance of former hardships. When we pray for the preservation of them where they have been granted, and expect the full extension of them from the justice of those states which still restrict them, when we solicit the protection of Heaven over our common country, we neither admit, nor can omit, recommending your preservation to the singular care of divine Providence, because we conceive that no human means are so available to promote the welfare of the United States as the prolongation of your health and life, in which are included the energy of your example, the wisdom of your counsels, and the persuasive eloquence of your virtues.

  Washington:
  Gentlemen:--While I now receive with much satisfaction your congratulations on my being called by an unanimous vote, to the first station of my country, I cannot but duly notice your politeness, in offering an apology for the unavoidable delay. And as that delay has given you an opportunity of realizing, instead of anticipating, the benefits of the general government, you will do me the justice to believe, that your testimony of the increase of the public prosperity, enhances the pleasure, which I should otherwise have experienced from your affectionate address.

  I feel that my conduct, in war and in peace, has met with more general approbation than could have reasonably been expected; and I And myself disposed to consider that fortunate circumstance, in a great degree, resulting from the able support, and extraordinary candor, of my fellow-citizens of all denominations.

  The prospect of national prosperity now before us, is truly animating, and ought to excite the exertions of all good men, to establish and secure the happiness of their country, in the permanent duration of its freedom and independence. America, under the smiles of divine providence, the protection of a good government, and the cultivation of manners, morals, and piety, cannot fail of attaining an uncommon degree of eminence in literature, commerce, agriculture, improvements at home, and respectability abroad.

  As mankind become more liberal, they will be more apt to allow, that all those who conduct themselves as worthy members of the community, are equally entitled to the protection of civil government. I hope ever to see America among the foremost nations in examples of justice and liberality. And I presume that your fellow citizens will not forget the patriotic part which you took in the accomplishment of their revolution, and the establishment of their government, or the important assistance which they received from a nation in which the Roman Catholic faith is professed.

  I thank you, gentlemen, for your kind concern for me. While my life and my health shall continue, in whatever situation I may be, it shall be my constant endeavor to justify the favorable sentiments which you are pleased to express of my conduct. And may the members of your society in America, animated alone by the pure spirit of Christianity, and still conducting themselves as the faithful subjects of our government, enjoy every temporal and spiritual felicity.

  GEORGE WASHINGTON

  • The Address of the Roman Catholics to George Washington, Esq. President of the United States; and George Washington's Answer. Public Advertiser (London, England), Saturday, July 31, 1790; Issue 17493.
• To President Thomas Mifflin, March 15, 1790. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• To Reverend John Carroll (First Roman Catholic Bishop in the United States), Philadelphia, April 10, 1792. The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources , 1745-1799. John C. Fitzpatrick, Editor.
• Farewell Address of Washington: Introduction; Transcript; Original

  Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism, who should labour to subvert these great Pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of Men & citizens. The mere Politican, equally with the pious man ought to respect & to cherish them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private & public felicity. Let it simply be asked where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the Oaths, which are the instruments of investigation in Courts of Justice? And let us with caution indulge the supposition, that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure--reason & experience both forbid us to expect that National morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.

  'Tis substantially true, that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule indeed extends with more or less force to every species of Free Government. Who that is a sincere friend to it, can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the fabric.

  ... Observe good faith & justice towards all Nations. Cultivate peace & harmony with all--Religion & morality enjoin this conduct; and can it be that good policy does not equally enjoin it? It will be worthy of a free, enlightened, and, at no distant period, a great Nation, to give to mankind the magnanimous and too novel example of a People always guided by an exalted justice & benevolence.

• Testimony of Washington, and of the Congress of 1776, in favor of the special Providence of God and the Bible. Providence: Printed by R. Cranston, 1836. 12 pp.; 20 cm. "The following compilation from the writings of Washington, and the Journals of the Congress of 1776, was delivered before the young men of Richmond Street congregation, in Providence, on the evening of February 22nd, 1826."
• Bedford, Gunning, 1747-1812. A Funeral oration upon the death of General George Washington: Prepared at the request of the Masonic Lodge, no. 14, of Wilmington, state of Delaware, and delivered on St. John the Evangelist's day, being the 27th of December, anno lucis 5799; and now published at the particular desire of the Lodge. / By Gunning Bedford, A.M.; [Two lines in Latin from Horace] Wilmington [Del.]: Printed at the Franklin Press, by James Wilson, 1800, 19, [1] pp.; (4to)
• Morris, Gouverneur, 1752-1816. An Oration, upon the death of General Washington: / by Gouverneur Morris; Delivered at the request of the Corporation of the City of New-York, on the 31st day of December, 1799. And published by their request; [Two lines of Latin verse]. New-York: Printed by John Furman, opposite the City Hall, 1800. 24 pp.; 21 cm. (8vo)
• Timothy Bigelow, 1767-1821. An Address, delivered on the third anniversary of the Washington Benevolent Society: April 30, 1814 / by Timothy Bigelow. Boston: Printed by C. Stebbins, 1814. 19 pp.; 21 cm.
• Timothy Dwight. A Discourse, deliverd [sic] at New-Haven, Feb. 22, 1800: on the character of George Washington, esq. at the request of the citizens. New Haven, 1800. 54 pp.
• From Works of Fisher Ames. Eulogy on Washington. Delivered, at the request of the legislature of Massachusetts, February 8, 1800. "Our liberty depends on our education, our laws, and habits, ... it is founded on morals and religion, whose authority reigns in the heart, and on the influence all these produce on publick opinion, before that opinion governs rulers."
• John Jones, Oration on Washington.
• James Madison. A Discourse on the Death of General Washington, late President of the United States: delivered on the 22d of February, 1800, in the church in Williamsburg.
• Uzal Ogden. Two Discourses, Occasioned by the Death of General George Washington at Mount-Vernon, December 14, 1799. Second edition. Philadelphia: Printed by M. Maxwell, for A. Dickins, Bookselle, North Second Street, Opposite Christ-Church. 1800. 37 pp.
• Samuel Stanhope Smith. An Oration, upon the death of General George Washington: delivered in the State-House at Trenton, on the 14th of January, 1800. Trenton [N.J.], 1800. 45 pp.
• Justice Joseph Story. An Eulogy on General George Washington: written at the request of the inhabitants of Marblehead, and delivered before them on the second day of January, A.D. 1800. / By Joseph Story, A.B.; [Two lines in Latin from Tacitus] Salem, Mass.: Printed by Joshua Cushing, County Street, Salem, 1800. 24 pp.; 21 cm. (8vo)
• William Thornton,"Sleep." William Thornton Recalls the Death of Washington.
• James Wallis, Oration on George WashingtonPart 1, Part 2.
• Hartford, Nov. 30. Connecticut Courant, November 30, 1789. Address of the Trustees of Dartmouth College to the President of the United States, with the President's response.
• Interesting Documents. Philadelphia Recorder, January 31, 1829, p. 179. Address of the Trustees of Dartmouth College to the President of the United States, with the President's response.
• Bird Wilson. Memoir of the life of the Right Reverend William White, D. D., Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the state of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia, 1839. 430 pp.
• Ashbel Green. JEFFERSON'S PAPERS; To George Washington, President of the United States; To the Clergy of different denominations residing in and near the city of Philadelphia, The Christian Advocate, Vol. 8. Philadelphia: Jun 1, 1830; pp. 305-310.
• American Declaration of Independence. The Chartist Circular, n. 19. February 1, 1840. Washington's response included.
• Professor Swing. The Lord's Work Some of the Discourses Delivered Yesterday in the Churches of Chicago . The Daily Inter Ocean, (Chicago, IL) Monday, February 23, 1880; pg. 3; Issue 278; col A.
• Professor Swing. Appropriate to the Day Prof. Swing's Sermon on the Religion of George Washington. Milwaukee Daily Sentinel (Milwaukee, WI) Monday, February 23, 1880; pg. 4; Issue 45; col C.
• James Abercrombie. Washington Not a Communicant. The New-York Evangelist, March 17, 1887, p. 2, col. D. Reprint of letter from Magazine of American History, June 1885.
• Washington Not a Communicant. The New-York Evangelist, October 4, 1888, p. 7, col. D. Ref. to Annals of the American Pulpit, vol. 5.
• Moral and Religious George Washington's Reliance on God. The Vermont Watchman (Montpelier, VT) Wednesday, May 08, 1889; pg. 2; Issue 19; col F.
• William Stevens Perry. Story and Incident; The Religious Character of Washington. Also James M. Buckley, editor of Christian Advocate. "Washington as a Christian," Christian Observer, February 20, 1901. pp. 20-21.
• C. T. Wettstein. The Christian Statesman; George Washington the Father of Our Country; A Tribute to His Memory. The Herald of Gospel Liberty, March 1, 1917, pp. 198-199. Includes text from a Milwaukee newspaper, "The Religion of Washington."
• William J. Johnson. George Washington, the Christian. New York and Cincinnati: Abingdon Press, 1919. 299 pp.

Of the following definitions, two dictionaries are used: Webster's An American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828, and Oxford English Dictionary, 1989.

CHRISTIAN, n.
1. A believer in the religion of Christ.
2. A professor of his belief in the religion of Christ.
3. A real disciple of Christ; one who believes in the truth of the Christian religion, and studies to follow the example, and obey the precepts, of Christ; a believer in Christ who is characterized by real piety.
4. In a general sense, the word Christians includes all who are born in a Christian country or of Christian parents.

CHRISTIAN, a. [See the Noun.]
1. Pertaining to Christ, taught by him, or received from him; as the Christian religion; Christian doctrines.
2. Professing the religion of Christ; as a Christian friend.
3. Belonging to the religion of Christ; relating to Christ, or to his doctrines, precepts and example; as christian profession and practice.
4. Pertaining to the church; ecclesiastical; as courts Christian.

--Noah Webster. An American Dictionary of the English Language, intended to exhibit, I. The origin, affinities and primary signification of English words, as far as they have been ascertained: II. The genuine orthography and pronunciation of words, according to general usage or to just principles of analogy: III. Accurate and discriminating definitions, with numerous authorities and illustrations: to which are prefixed an introductory dissertation on the origin, history and connection of the languages of Western Asia and of Europe and a concise grammar of the English language. New York: S. Converse, (New Haven [Conn.]: (Hezekiah Howe), 1828.

CHRISTIAN, adj. and n.
A. adj.
1. a. Of persons and communities: Believing, professing, or belonging to the religion of Christ.
2. a. Of things: Pertaining to Christ or his religion: of or belonging to Christianity.
B. n.
1. a. One who believes or professes the religion of Christ; an adherent of Christianity.

Christian, adj. and n.
--Oxford English Dictionary,Second edition, 1989; online version November 2010. ; accessed 30 January 2011. Earlier version first published in New English Dictionary, 1889.

CHRISTIANITY, n.
2. a. The religion of Christ; the Christian faith; the system of doctrines and precepts taught by Christ and his apostles.

Christianity, n.
--Oxford English Dictionary,Second edition, 1989; online version November 2010. ; accessed 30 January 2011. Earlier version first published in New English Dictionary, 1889.

THEOC'RACY, n. [Gr. God, and power; to hold.] Government of a state by the immediate direction of God; or the state thus governed. Of this species the Israelites furnish an illustrious example. The theocracy lasted till the time of Saul.

Noah Webster. An American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828.

THEOCRACY, n.
a. A form of government in which God (or a deity) is recognized as the king or immediate ruler, and his laws are taken as the statute-book of the kingdom, these laws being usually administered by a priestly order as his ministers and agents; hence (loosely) a system of government by a sacerdotal order, claiming a divine commission; also, a state so governed: esp. applied to the commonwealth of Israel from the exodus to the election of Saul as king.

theocracy, n.
--Oxford English Dictionary,Second edition, 1989; online version November 2010. ; accessed 31 January 2011. Earlier version first published in New English Dictionary, 1912.

DEISM, n. [L. God.] The doctrine or creed of a deist; the belief or system of religious opinions of those who acknowledge the existence of one God, but deny revelation: or deism is the belief in natural religion only, or those truths, in doctrine and practice, which man is to discover by the light of reason, independent and exclusive of any revelation from God. Hence deism implies infidelity or a disbelief in the divine origin of the scriptures.
The view which the rising greatness of our country presents to my eyes, is greatly tarnished by the general prevalence of deism, which, with me, is but another name for vice and depravity. P. Henry, Wirys Sketches.

--Noah Webster. An American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828.

DEISM, n.
1. The distinctive doctrine or belief of a deist; usually, belief in the existence of a Supreme Being as the source of finite existence, with rejection of revelation and the supernatural doctrines of Christianity; 'natural religion'.

deism, n.
--Oxford English Dictionary,Second edition, 1989; online version November 2010. ; accessed 30 January 2011. Earlier version first published in New English Dictionary, 1894.

DEIST, n. One who believes in the existence of a God, but denies revealed religion, but follows the light of nature and reason, as his only guides in doctrine and practice; a freethinker.

--Noah Webster. An American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828.

DEIST, n.
One who acknowledges the existence of a God upon the testimony of reason, but rejects revealed religion. (The term was originally opposed to atheist, and was interchangeable with theist even in the end of the 17th c. (Locke, Second Vindication, 1695, W. Nichols Conference with a Theist, 1696); but the negative aspect of deism, as opposed to Christianity, became the accepted one, and deist and theist were differentiated as in quots. 1878-1880.)

deist, n.
--Oxford English Dictionary,Second edition, 1989; online version November 2010. ; accessed 30 January 2011. Earlier version first published in New English Dictionary, 1894.

UNITA'RIAN, n. [L. unitus, unus.] One who denies the doctrine of the trinity, and ascribes divinity to God the Father only. The Arian and Socinian are both comprehended in the term Unitarian.

--Noah Webster. An American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828.

UNITARIAN, n. and adj.
A. n.
1. Theol.
a. One who affirms the unipersonality of the Godhead, especially as opposed to an orthodox Trinitarian; spec. a member or adherent of a Christian religious body or sect holding this doctrine.

Unitarian, n. and adj.
--Oxford English Dictionary,Second edition, 1989; online version November 2010. ; accessed 30 January 2011. Earlier version first published in New English Dictionary, 1924.

SEC'ULAR, a. [L. secularis, from seculum, the world or an age.]
1. Pertaining to the present world, or to things not spiritual or holy; relating to things not immediately or primarily respecting the soul, but the body; worldly. The secular concerns of life respect making making provision for the support of life, the preservation of health, the temporal prosperity of men, of states, &c. Secular power is that which superintends and governs the temporal affairs of men, the civil or political power; and is contradistinguished from spiritual or ecclsiastical power.
2. Among catholics, not regular; not bound by monastic vows or rules; not confines to a monastery or subject to the rules of a religious community. Thus we say, the secular clergy and the regular clergy.
3. Coming once in a century; as a secular year.

--Noah Webster. An American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828.

PLURALISM, n.
3. Polit. A theory or system of devolution and autonomy for organizations and individuals in preference to monolithic state power. Also: (advocacy of) a political system within which many parties or organizations have access to power.
4. The presence or tolerance of a diversity of ethnic or cultural groups within a society or state; (the advocacy of) toleration or acceptance of the coexistence of differing views, values, cultures, etc.

pluralism, n.
--Oxford English Dictionary,Third edition, December 2009; online version November 2010. ; accessed 30 January 2011. An entry for this word was first included in New English Dictionary, 1907.

ENLIGHTENMENT, n.
1. b. spec. Usu. with capital initial. The action or process of freeing human understanding from the accepted and customary beliefs sanctioned by traditional, esp. religious, authority, chiefly by rational and scientific inquiry into all aspects of human life, which became a characteristic goal of philosophical writing in the late 17th and 18th centuries. Freq. in the Age of Enlightenment (cf. sense 2).Closely associated with sense 2.

2. With the and capital initial. The dominant European intellectual culture in the 18th cent. which typically emphasized freedom of thought and action without reference to religious and other traditional authority, proposed a deistic understanding of the universe, insisted on a rationalist and scientific approach to the understanding of human society, the law, education, the economy, etc., and had as an important aim the development of new theoretical methods and practical reforms for these areas; (also) the period of time during which this climate of thought was dominant. Cf. Aufklärung n., illumination n. 3. The Enlightenment spread across most of Western Europe and to European colonies in the Americas, typically with different aspects predominating in different countries or regions (e.g. the flowering of social and economic thought in Scotland). Hence, the term is often modified by an adjective denoting one of the main centres of activity, suggesting the particular characteristics or contribution of the thinkers from that area, as French Enlightenment, Scottish Enlightenment, etc.

Enlightenment, n.
--Oxford English Dictionary, Third edition, August 2010; online version November 2010. ; accessed 30 January 2011. An entry for this word was first included in New English Dictionary, 1891.

"Enlightenment, French siècle des Lumières (Age of the Enlightened), German Aufklärung, a European intellectual movement of the 17th and 18th centuries in which ideas concerning God, reason, nature, and man were synthesized into a worldview that gained wide assent and that instigated revolutionary developments in art, philosophy, and politics. Central to Enlightenment thought were the use and the celebration of reason, the power by which man understands the universe and improves his own condition. The goals of rational man were considered to be knowledge, freedom, and happiness.

... "Enlightenment thought, however, failed in many respects. It tried to replace a religious world view with one erected by human reason. It failed in this because it found reason so often accompanied by willpower, emotions, passions, appetites, and desires that reason can neither explain nor control. In the end, the adequacy of reason itself was attacked, first by David Hume in his 'Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding', and later by Immanuel Kant in the 'Critique of Pure Reason'. Most thinkers came to realize that cool and calculating reason is insufficient to explain the variety of human nature and the puzzling flow of history."

--Enlightenment. (2011). In Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved from http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/188441/Enlightenment

Bulletin of the New York Public Library, Volume 1, By the New York Public Library:

The earliest official text of the Declaration in any collection of documents was that in The Constitutions of the several independent states of America; the Declaration of Independence; etc., Philadelphia, 1781; of which edition the library possesses Secretary Thomson's own copy.

Among the numerous later reprints the following may be mentioned: Historical Magazine, 2nd series, vol. 4 (Nov., 1868) p. 209, accompanied by letters of the signers, and a short sketch of each (this number of the Magazine was edited by Colonel Theodorus Bailey Myers); Hough's American Constitutions, vol. 1 (Albany, 1871) p. 5; see also id. p. 1; B. P. Poore's Charters and constitutions, vol. 1 (Washington, 1877) p. 1; Preston's Documents Illustrative of American history, N. Y., 1886, p. 210.

For contemporary accounts see the following: John Adams's Works; Almon's Remembrancer, vols. 1 and 2, London, 1776 and 1777; Andrews's History of the war, vol. 2 (London, 1786) p. 180; Force's American Archives, using the indexes s. v. Independence, etc.; Franklin's Writings (Sparks) vol. 1, pp. 373, 380, 406; Gordon's History of the American war, vol. 2 (London, 1788) pp. 248-298; The History of the War in America, vol. 1 (Dublin, 1779) p. 172, or The Impartial History of the War, London, 1780, p. 322; The History of the Origin, Rise, and Progress of the War in America, Boston, 1780, p. 196; Jefferson's Autobiography in his Writings (Washington, vol. 1, (Ford) vol. 1; see also Randall's Jefferson, vol. 1 (N. YM 1858) ch. 5; Jefferson's Notes on the State of Virginia, 1782, p. 217, or his Writings (Washington), vol. 8, p. 363; F. Moore's Diary of the Revolution, vol. 1 (N. Y., 1860, passim; J. Murray's Impartial history of the present war in America, vol. 2 (London, 1780) ch. 11; Ramsay's History of the revolution of South Carolina, vol. 1 (Trenton, 1785) ch. 7. Sparks's Correspondence of the Revolution, 4 vols., Boston, 1853; James Wilson's Works (J. DeW. Andrews) vol. 1 (Chicago, 1896) pp. 373, 507, 560, vol. 2, pp. 408, 507, 547, 556.

Later discussions may be found in Adolphus's History of England, vol. 2 (London, 1841) p. 348; Paul Allen's History of the American revolution, vol. 1 (Baltimore, 1822) p. 341; Bancroft's History of the U. S., vol. 4 (N. Y., 1891) ch. 20,21, 24-28; Botta's Storia dclla guerra dell' independenza degli Stati Uniti d'America, vol. 2 (Milan, 1819) p. 304, or Otis's translation of Botta, vol. 1 (Boston, 1826) p. 318; Bryant Gay's Popular history of the U. S. vol. 3 (N. Y., 1884) ch. 19; A. W. Clason on The Fallacy of the Declaration of Independence in the Magazine of American History, vol. 13 {May, 1885) p. 444; Richard Dillard on the Declaration of Independence by a colonial church, in the Magazine of American history, vol. 28 (Dec, 1892) p. 401; Donne's Correspondence of George III, vol. 2, London, 1867; Fiske's American Revolution, vol. 1 (Boston, 1893) p. 102; his article on The Eve of Independence in the Atlantic Monthly, vol. 62 (Nov., 1888) p. 612; Peter Force in LitteU's Living Age, vol. 44, p. 387; Frothingham's Rise of the republic, Boston, 1872, ch. 10, 11; The Centenary in the Galaxy, for July 1875; Percy Greg's History of the U.S, vol. 1 (London, 1887) p. 257; Greene's Historical view of the American Revolution, Boston, 1865; C. C. Jones in the Magazine of American History, vol. 20 (Sept., 1888) p. 202, on The Declaration in Savannah, Georgia; Lecky's England, vol. 3 (London, 1887) p. 459; Benson J. Lossing on Our National Anniversary, in Harper's Magazine, vol. 3 (July, 1851) p. 145; Mahon's England, vol. 6 (London, 1851) p. 138, or vol. 6 (Boston, 1853) p. 98; Massey's England, vol. 2 (London, 1858) p. 274; N.H. Morris on The Birth of the American republic, in Potter's American monthly, vol. 4 (July, 1875) p. 491, and 1776-1826-1876: The Great Committee and its Great Chairman of the Masterly Pen in id., vol. 7 (July, 1876) p. 17; Pitkin's History of America, vol. 1 (New Haven, 1828) p. 348; Goldwin Smith's United States, N. V., 1893, p. 87, and his articles in the Nineteenth Century, vol. 23 (Jan. and June. 1888) pp. 92, 881, on American Statesmen; the note by Jared Sparks on American Independence, in his edition of Washington's Writings, vol. 2, app. 10, p. 406; C. J. Stille on Pennsylvania and the Declaration of Independence, in the Pennsylvania Magazine of history, vol. 13 (1889) p. 385; W. L. Stone on The Declaration of Independence in a new light, in Harper's Magazine, vol. 67 (July, 1S83) p. 208; M. C. Tyler on The Declaration of Independence in the light of modern criticism, in the North American Review, vol. 163 (July, 1896) p. 1; George E. Ellis on The sentiment of independence, its growth and consummation in Winsor's Narrative and critical history of America, vol. 6 (Boston, 1888) ch. 3.

The best collection of lives of the signers is John Sanderson's Biography of the signers to the Declaration of Independence, 9 vols., Philadelphia, 1823-1827. Later editions of it, revised and edited by Robert T. Conrad, in one volume in 1846, and again in 1852, are also in the library, as well as an edition illustrated by William Brotherhead, and published at Philadelphia in 1865. See also Brotherhead's Book of the Signers, Philadelphia, 1861, later enlarged and reissued as the Centennial book of the Signers, in 1875. Sabin, vol. 18, no. 76398 gives the collation and lists of the portraits in the original edition of Sanderson; and lists of the authors of the various lives are given in Brotherhead's Book of the Signers, Phila., 1861, p. iv, and in the Narrative and critical history of America, vol. 6 (Boston, 1888) p. 265. See too J. Everett's review of the first two volumes in the North American Review, vol. 16 (Jan. 1823) p. 184. Benson J. Lossing compiled Biographical sketches of the signers of the American Declaration of Independence, N. Y., 1860. Sketches of the signers are also found in Niles's Register, vol. 37 (Sept. 12, 1829) p. 41: Harper's Monthly Magazine, vol. 7 (July, 1853) p. 153, and vol. 47 (July and Aug., 1873) pp. 258, 424. For individual biographies of the more prominent actors, the following may be suggested: W. V. Wells's Samuel Adams, vols. 1 and 2, Boston, 1865; Morley's Edmund Burke, London, 1867, ch. 4; Campbell's Lord Camden in his Lives of the Lord Chancellors, vol. 7 (London, 1857) p. 7; C. J. Stilli's John Dickinson, ch. 5, in the Memoirs of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, vol. 13, Phila., 1891; Lord John Russell's Life of Charles James Fox, vol. 1 (London, 1859) p. 101; W. W. Henry's Patrick Henry, vol. 1 (N. Y., 1891) pp. 207. 363, 391, 401; R. H. Lee's Richard Henry Lee, vol. 1 (Phila., 1825) pp. 165, 275; K. M. Rowland's George Mason, 2 vols., N. Y., 1892; Moncure D. Conway's Thomas Paine, N. Y., 1893; Sparks's Gouverneur Morris, vol. 1 (Boston, 1832) p. 109.

For the constitutional aspect of the question, see Cooley's General principles of constitutional law, Boston, 1880; G. T. Curtis's History of the Constitution, vol. 1 (N. Y., 1897) Ch. 3, 7; Von Hoist's Constitutional and Political History of the U. S. , vol. 1 (Chicago, 1876) ch. 1; Kent's Commentaries, vol. 1 (New York, 1826) p. 195; Story's Commentaries, vol. 1 (Boston, 1833) p. 190.

On the signing of the instrument see John Adams's Works, vol. 3, p. 55, vof. 7, p. 397, vol. 9, p. 398, vol. 10, pp. 35, 87; and Jefferson's Writings (Ford) vol. 1, p. 28, foot note. See also M. M. Baldwin in the Magazine of American History, vol. 20 (Dec, 1888) p. 479; Mellen Chamberlain in the Massachusetts Historical Society Proceedings, 2nd series, vol. 1, p. 273 (also published separately); C. L. Davis in Potter's American Monthly, vol. 5 (Dec, 1875) p. 911; T. W. Higginson in Scribner's Magazine, vol. 12 (July, 1876) p. 289; N. H. Morris in Potter, vol. 5 (Sept., 1875) p. 648; Niles's Register, vol. 30 (July 15 and Aug. 5, 1826) pp. 345, 393. An article on Where the Declaration of Independence was written, is in Potter, vol. 6 (May, 1876) p. 341.

--Extract from History of the Inception and Drafting of the Declaration of Independence. (Emmet Collection. Presented to the New York Public Library by John S. Kennedy.) Emmet (Thomas Addis). With a collection of autographs of the signers, and other documents. New York, 1876. Noted in Bulletin of the New York Public Library, Volume 1. Report (New York Public Library), 1897, pp. 351-352.