| Citation |
NYJ-P.777.008
18 Aug 1777:21 (1763)
Charlestown, (South-Carolina) July 8. Friday last being the
first anniversary of the glorious formation of the American
Empire, when thirteen colonies, driven by necessity, threw
off the yoke, and rejected the tyranny of Great-Britain, by
declaring themselves free, independant and sovereign states,
the same was commemorated by every demonstration of joy.
Ringing of bells ushered in the day. At sun-rise, American
colours were displayed from all the forts and batteries, and
vessels in the harbour.---The Charlestown regiment of
militia, commanded by the Hon. Col. Charles Pinckney, and
the Charlestown artillery company, commanded by Captain
Thomas Grimball, were assembled upon the parade, and
reviewed by his Excellency the President, who was attended,
upon this occasion, by his honour the Vice-President, and
the honorable members of the privy council. At one o'clock
the several forts, beginning at fort Moultrie on Sullivant's
island, discharged 76 pieces of cannon, alluding to the
glorious year 1776, and the militia and artillery fired
three general vollies. His Excellency the President then
gave a most excellent entertainment in the Council chamber,
at which were present all the members of the legislature
then in town, all the public officers, civil and military,
the clergy and many strangers of note, to the amount of more
than double the number that every observed the birth day of
the present misguided and unfortunate King of Great-Britain.
After dinner the following toasts were drank, viz. . . [13
toasts listed] Each toast being succeeded by a salute of 13
guns, which were fired by Captain Grimball's company from
their two field pieces with admirable regularity. The day
having been spent in festivity and the most conspicuous joy
and harmony; the evening was concluded with illuminations,
&c. far exceeding any that had ever been exhibited here
before.
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