56 men sacrificed for us

By John Sheda

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The Declaration of Independence was a statement that the 13 American colonies, at war against Great Britain, regarded themselves as independent states and no longer a part of the British Empire. This declaration is considered to be a major statement on human rights, especially its second statement:

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Fifty-six men signed the Declaration of Independence. By signing it, they knew that each one of their lives was in danger. We enjoy our freedom today. But have you ever wondered what happened to these 56 men, who pledged their lives, fortunes and sacred honor for you, me and all those before us and who come after us?

Five signers were captured by the British as traitors and tortured before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned to the ground. They lost everything. Two of these men lost their sons in the war, while another had both of his sons captured and tortured. Nine of the 56 died from wounds or hardships in the war. One signer, Carter Braxton, was a wealthy trader who watched the British Navy sink his ships. He had to sell his home and everything he owned to pay off debts. He died in rags.

Thomas McKean, another signer, moved his family more than 20 times to stay in hiding. He served in Congress without pay. Everything he owned was taken from him, and he and his family lived in poverty.

Thomas Nelson, Jr., found out that British Gen. Cornwallis had taken over his magnificent home. Nelson went to Gen. George Washington and asked him to open fire on his home. Nelson died bankrupt.

Francis Lewis saw his home and all he owned destroyed.

These are just a few of the stories about the 56 signers. They were not wild-eyed, rabble-rousers. They were men of wealth and security. They valued freedom and liberty more. They gave us a free and independent America.

Today, our men and women in the armed forces do the same thing with the exception that they try to keep the battlefield away from our homes. This Fourth of July, please recognize our veterans, the flag and the bands playing our national anthem. Stand, take off your hats and, for God's sake, sing! Be proud that you're an American. Have a great holiday!

John Sheda is pastor of Living Water Church in Independence. Comments: jsheda@indytel.com.