Elise Skidmore

I’ve always loved the 4th of July. It was my father’s birthday and is my “birthday eve,” and there were always parties and fireworks. Back in 1972, I discovered the play and movie, “1776” and a new tradition was born. Every year around this time I pull out my DVD and get wrapped up again in the story of how the Declaration of Independence came to be. Did they take some liberties? I’m sure they did, but then isn’t that what it’s all about when you come right down to it?

Some things seem have remained the same. Take a minute to enjoy John Adams moaning to God about the Congress and you’ll see what I mean.

And I love listening to Jefferson, Adams, and Ben Franklin singing about the birth of our new nation in “The Egg.” (Turn up the volume, the clip plays very low.)

I get goosebumps every time I hear John Adams singing “Is Anybody There?” Every single time. Knowing that Adams’ vision came true, knowing how much it all meant to him, I’m always touched by the irony of he and Thomas Jefferson both dying within hours of each other on the same day– the 4th of July, 50 years later.

Turn your volume up when you watch these YouTube clips. The sound isn’t always the best. If you haven’t seen “1776” in its entirety, you really should. It’s a great way to remember what our 4th of July celebrations are really about, and you’ll find yourself humming the music for days.

Have a Happy, Safe, 4th of July, Everyone!