First Parish to Recreate Manchester's First Reading of the Declaration

Local history buffs will have a chance to step back into one of the most significant moments in the town's history when First Parish Church in Manchester hosts a public reading of the Declaration of Independence on Sunday, Aug. 16, at 11:30 a.m.

This is more than a generic America250 event.  It’s tied to the actual 250th anniversary of the first time Manchester residents are believed to have heard the Declaration read publicly in 1776.  

While the current First Parish Church was built in 1809, it stands on the site of the town's earlier meetinghouses, including the church erected in 1754 where the original reading would have taken place.

Following the Continental Congress's adoption of the Declaration on July 4, 1776, copies were distributed throughout the colonies.  Massachusetts officials directed ministers in every town to read the document to their congregations after Sunday worship as soon as printed broadsides reached them.  Historians believe Manchester's reading likely occurred shortly after Aug. 11, 1776.

The Aug. 16 program will recreate that historic occasion.  Before the reading, Manchester Museum Director Matthew Swindell will present a brief overview of the Declaration's arrival in Massachusetts and its significance to the town.  Revolutionary War-era reenactors in period dress will also participate, helping bring the event to life.

The program is free and open to the public and will be recorded. For more information, contact Michele Kulick at 978-807-1046 or michL2ku@yahoo.com.