Editor, The Smithfield Times:

Sept. 17-23 is Constitution Week across our United States of America. 

On Sept. 17, 1787 our United States Constitution was signed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is a day to remember the sacrifices of our forefathers and mothers who fought for our country’s freedom. We should, also, remember the dedication of the delegates who created a framework for our American government.

In 1955, the Daughters of the American Revolution petitioned the United States Congress to dedicate Sept. 17-23 each year to commemorate Constitution Week. The resolution was signed into Public Law #915 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on Aug. 2, 1956.

The Col. William Allen Chapter in Smithfield has special events planned for Constitution Week this year. Please come and enjoy!

1. Constitution Week displays will be located in the Carrollton, Smithfield and Windsor libraries. Come read information and facts about the Constitution. Check out a book about the history of the time.
2. Patriotic rocks will be hidden in the downtown Smithfield area. If you find a rock, please take it to the Isle of WIght Museum for a prize.
3. The bells of Trinity United Methodist Church will ring at 4 p.m. on Sept. 14 to commemorate the signing.
4. Col. William Allen Chapter will have a table at the Smithfield Farmers Market on Sept. 14.  Please stop by and say “hello.” There will be handouts for the children. For any ladies interested in finding out about the DAR, there will be information available.
5. On Saturday, Sept. 14, five of the DAR ladies will present the program “Founding Mothers” in the Isle of WIght County Museum at 11 a.m. Come and learn some history about Martha Washington, Abigail Adams, Dolley Madison, Elizabeth Monroe and Eliza Hamilton!

We encourage each of you to read some or all of the Constitution, not just during this special week but throughout the year. 

 

Debbie Hughson

Vice regent

Col. William Allen Chapter

Virginia DAR/NSDAR

Smithfield