Writing assignment--a place in history!
The windows have been left open for a hot breeze to flow in one side, across the room, and out the other. I’m blown into this space and light on a piece of parchment on the desk. People are milling around fanning themselves when someone picks up a paper and tries to swat at me. I’m too fast for him as I fly up to the mantel above the fireplace and observe.
There is much debate going on with heated words and even hotter tempers flaring and flailing. What is happening on this ordinary day? Chairs are strewn around as if in a classroom but these are men, not children. What is the debate? It’s a hot summer day. Shouldn’t they be outside playing horseshoes and drinking ale.
More discussion. I hear the word slavery. Some men want it; some don’t. Is that what this is all about? Well, only partly. Do they want to declare independence from a ruthless slave owner? No! It’s independence from a ruthless king across the waters. I fly down closer to take a look.
The men begin to rise and move toward the desk where I am hiding behind an inkwell. One by one they dip the quill into the ink and sign their name to the parchment. It seems to be a solemn and momentous occasion…in this place called Philadelphia.
John Trumbull - 1819 - Declaration of Independence
