Further Reading
American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence
Pauline Maier, one of the foremost authorities on the founding of the United States, brought to life the struggle of British colonies along the eastern shores of the North American continent to separate from Great Britain and become an independent nation. She explored the unique events, arguments, and consequential men and women leading to the Declaration of the Independence and what happened in the months and years following its approval and how it has persisted as a force in American society. Must reading for anyone who want to truly understand our nation’s founding and the principles underlying it.
1776
This intensely human story of the War for Independence by Pulitzer-prize
recipient David McCullough is the perfect way to begin understanding the origins
of the United States. Beginning on October 26, 1775, when King George III declared to the British Parliament that the American colonies were in rebellion, the book takes us through the early and darkest days of the War for Independence and George Washington’s “brilliant stroke” that changed history. The experiences of patriots and loyalists, mercenaries, political leaders, traitors, preachers, spies, women and men are embedded in in the story of the birth of the United States.
Miracle at Philadelphia: The Story of the Constitutional Convention, May to
September 1787
A classic in the literature relating the drafting and ratification of the United States Constitution, the book is considered to be one of the most readable and vividly told accounts of the convention that took place in the summer of 1787 as delegates from twelve of the newly independent states took a bold step from confederation to a new federal form of government. Bowen explains the important differences among the states and how they finally came together to forge a “more perfect union” and successfully managed to secure its ratification through a bitterly contentious series of state conventions.
Signing Their Lives Away: The Fame and Misfortune of the Men Who Signed the
Declaration of Independence
At the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Benjamin Franklin quipped, “We must all hang together, gentlemen, or else we shall most assuredly hang separately.” Who were these men who “pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor” when they signed a document placing them in jeopardy of being punished for treason for the actions they were taking. “Signing Their Lives Away” provides short biographies of each of these men, as well as a timeline of the birth of the United States and other choice details about this most fascinating period of our nation’s history. You will learn some surprising facts about our Founders.
Signing Their Rights Away: The Fame and Misfortune of the Men Who Signed the United States Constitution
A companion to their book about the signers of the Declaration of Independence, Kiernan and D’Agnese don’t focus solely on our well-known
Founders but relate fascinating information and contributions about those whose names have been clouded in the mists of history. The brief biographies of the thirty-nine men who signed the Constitution on September 17, 1787, reveal duels, problems with alcohol, disputes over slavery, personal triumphs and failures, and much more. We are reminded that even great men, pursuing great ends, can be as “quirky” and flawed as those we elect today.
Local Places to Visit
Orange County has many places to visit that offer ways to explore our county and our nation’s history.
Knott’s Berry Farm Independence Hall
Knott’s Independence Hall is an exact, brick-by-brick replica of the original in Philadelphia. Walter Knott’s personal labor of love, it is the nation’s only exact replica of the Philadelphia landmark. Consistent with Walter Knott’s wishes, Knott’s Independence Hall remains a free-admission resource. Independence Hall is open from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m and is located outside Knott’s Soak City.
Bower’s Museum
For over eight decades, the Bowers Museum has evolved in many ways. From a relatively small museum focusing on Orange County history, the Bowers is now 8.6 times larger. Now it has the distinction of being the largest museum in Orange County, and one of the finest cultural arts museums in the region. Its collections, programs, and exhibitions still include Orange County history, but now reflect the demographics of Southern California by celebrating its diverse cultural makeup, with major emphasis on the fine arts of the indigenous peoples of the Americas and the Pacific.
Riley’s Farm
Over the years, Riley’s Farm has introduced millions of students to American history by “living it” for a few hours. Students get to see 18th century British soldiers, 49ers, and Civil War camp life. They act out the parts as though they were participants in the great conflicts of our past.
Be Part of the Celebration
We encourage organizations, businesses, families, and individuals to join us in this historic celebration.
Together, we can honor our past, understand our present, and shape our future
Your financial support will enable us to develop and host educational programs, community events, and much more.
Every contribution helps us bring this celebration to life and reach more people.
