Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Alton, IL. – On July 8, 1776, four days after the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, the document was read publicly for the first time in Philadelphia. On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), will bring that historic moment to life in downtown Alton. The program will start at 4:30 pm.
“While July 4th marks the birth of our independence, July 8th was the day the people first heard the words that would change the world,” – says Richard Ruedin, past President of the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter, (SAR) and Past State President of the State of Illinois Sons of the American Revolution, (ILSSAR).
Event Highlights:
SAR Color Guard: Members of the Sons of the American Revolution will present the colors in authentic uniforms of the American Revolution.
The 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, (the Patriotic part of the Knights of Columbus) will provide an Honor Guard and salute to the Pledge Allegiance.
Community Reading: Local civic leaders, including Mayor David Goins, are being invited to this event, the Ninia Edwards Chapter, DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) will be in authentic wear of the American Revolution as readers, along with members of the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter, (SAR), and 4th Degree Knights of Columbus.
Historical Content: Brief remarks will be shared regarding the significance of the 1776 public readings and the simultaneous reading at our 5:00 pm as part of Sharing the Spirit of America reader in all fifty states and in all US Territories and Military facilities around the world.
This non-political event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for seating.
The Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter, (SAR), and the Nina Edwards Chapter, (DAR), are patriotic, historical, and educational non-profit organizations. Our chapters are dedicated to honoring our patriot ancestors, educating the public, and promoting the ideals of the American Revolution.
