4th of July at Bennington Battlefield

Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The path ahead would be long and arduous. Victory was uncertain. In July of 1777 an invading British army drove toward Albany. Hoping to instill fear in the inhabitants of the region, Lieutenant-General John Burgoyne penned and circulated a proclamation to inhabitants, often referred to as a manifesto. People were warned not to "endeavour to obstruct the operation of the king's troops, or supply or assist those of the enemy."

Join us for a very unique program as we welcome a presenter who will portray Lieutenant-General John Burgoyne and read his manifesto in uniform. The reading will begin at 10:30 sharp. After the program, refreshments will be served and we will offer 18th century style toasts in support of independence.

At the end of the program, guests are encouraged to head to the Battle Monument in Bennington, Vermont for a reading of the Declaration of Independence at 11:30.

You may also like the following events from Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site:

• This Sunday, 22nd June, 10:00 am, Weaponry in the Battle of Bennington in Hoosick Falls