From the entire team here at the Stephen Cooley Real Estate Group – and especially Stephen himself – our wishes for a safe, fun and certainly Happy Independence Day! As we group together this Monday to enjoy time with family and friends, fire up the grills and sit back to “ooooh” and “aahhh” over fireworks, join us in remembering we celebrate our independence and the freedoms we share because of it. Even as we explore some fun facts about this day – know that we know never to take these liberties for granted and that they’re fought for each and every day
1. Happy 2nd of July?
Those more in the know than me may have realized that the 2nd Continental Congress actually voted for America’s independence on July 2, 1776. In fact, John Adams is quoted as believing that “The second day of July, 1776 will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival.”
Not so much.
So why do we celebrate on the 4th? That was the day congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence, although in truth it would take months until the document was actually signed by all parties.
2. National Hot Dog Day
Going to be grilling on Monday? Apparently you’re not alone. July 4th, in addition to being the biggest firework day of the year, is also the day where more Americans consume the questionable delight known at the hot dog. In fact, on that one day, over 155 MILLION hot dogs will be grilled, lathered in condiments and devoured.
3. Tap Gently…
It is customary for bells across the nation to be rung as part of our Independence Day traditions. The most famous of these bells, the Liberty Bell, will not be among them. Starting in 1986, children who are descendants of the original signers of the Declaration of Independence symbolically tap the bell 13 times on July 4th to commemorate the day in honor of the first 13 states.
5. Happy 3rd of September?
As if the 2nd of July isn’t enough of a distraction, the 3rd of September could also be debated as the true date of Independence for the United States. On that day in 1783 the Treaty of Paris was signed actually granting the United States Independence from England.
6. Firework Frenzy!!
The Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks display is recognized as the largest pyrotechnic event of the day. With over 56,000 fireworks lighting up the NYC skyline, that equates to about 2,200 launched per minute. Over 37 each second! This year actually marks the event’s 40th anniversary so expect it to be extra special.
In addition to the above factoids, some extra information to share.
- Independence Day first became a federal holiday back in 1870.
- Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and James Monroe each died on July 4. Jefferson and Adams in 1826, Monroe in 1831.
- Average Americans will spend anywhere from 50 – 300 dollars on fireworks this year.
- In total it is expected nationally that over 600 million dollars will be spent on fireworks.
- Laws regarding sale and use of consumer fireworks vary from state to state.
Hopefully something above represents a new or better understanding of one of America’s favorite holidays. Again, our wishes for a great day filled making lifelong memories as we all celebrate the birth of this great nation. From all of us to all of you…
Happy Independence Day!
John Kotrides
