Freedom Rings from Philadelphia

On July 4, 1998, the Pennsylvania Society commemorated the 222nd anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

As has been the tradition in recent years, the festivities commenced at the Sheraton Society Hill, and moved to Independence National Historical Park for the formal portion of the program.

The Color Guard led by Captain Andrew Jackson Salisbury, II paraded the flags.

Leroy M. Lewis, III served as the master of ceremonies. The honored speaker was Major General Garry L. Parks, USMC, representing the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The Society was pleased to welcome Whitney Anne Dorer, James May Dorer, Julia Blake Hill and Andrew Middleton Hill, descendants of signers of the Declaration of Independence. The Dorers and Hills tapped the Liberty Bell at 2:00 p.m. (EDT) signaling the concurrent ringing of bells around the world.

Gen. Parks with President Lloyd presenting gifts to honored guests

Such significant sites as The Old North Church Boston and the USS Arizona War Memorial joined churches, radio stations and bell towers in tolling their bells thirteen times in commemoration of the thirteen original states.

Unlike prior years, the entire ceremony occurred at Independence National Historical Park due to construction at Washington Square.

President Mark Frazier Lloyd addressed the gathering on the significance of Washington Square and Mayor Rendell added remarks regarding the restoration of this key historical site.

Bell Tappers escorted to Liberty Bell Pavillion

Attendees were entertained by the 111th Fighter Wing Honor Guard’s Drill Team.

The ceremonies were brought to an emotional conclusion with a cannon salute by the 2nd Pennsylvania Regiment of 1777, the playing of TAPS and a flyover by 111th Fighter Wing of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard.

Joseph Charles Byrne served as chairman for the Society’s most visible annual event. He and his committee should be lauded for a wonderful event.

Joe was kind enough to share some of his thoughts about his chairmanship of "Let Freedom Ring."

The fourth of July luncheon was an opportunity for me to get to know the members. I was gratified by the friendliness and helpful advice that made my task an easy one.

On the day of the luncheon I could not help but reflect on its historical significance and feel proud that I was part of the activity which promoted it.

The presence of the Dorer and Hill children reminded me of my ancestor, Joseph Conrad Scheetz. Scheetz answered an ad in Benjamin Franklin’s newspaper and traveled to Williamsburg, VA to build a paper mill. He returned to the Philadelphia area, acquired his own mill in Lower Merion and became one of Franklin’s paper suppliers.