We wanted to post Liberty Hattingdon today . . . . which we did. About 10 minutes ago. We also wanted to post a classic hat being it is Monday. So, we are double posting today!
Classic
Without further ado, here is Gloria —with a coordinating firecracker . . . . naturally.
Firecrackers
Many historians believe that fireworks originally were developed in the second century B.C. in ancient Liuyang, China. It is believed that the first natural “firecrackers” were bamboo stalks that when thrown in a fire, would explode with a bang because of the overheating of the hollow air pockets in the bamboo. The Chinese believed these natural “firecrackers” would ward off evil spirits. Source: American Pyro.
Fireworks
The very first fireworks were used as early as 200 BC. However, the tradition of setting off fireworks on the 4th of July began in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777, during the first organized celebration of Independence Day.
The Farmer’s Almanac tells us, “It is also said, that fireworks displays were used as morale boosters for soldiers in the Revolutionary War. At the time however, fireworks were the same type of explosives used in war and were called rockets, not fireworks. And so colonists celebrated the fourth even before they knew if they would win the war.”
Signing
The Declaration of Independence was announced on July 4th, though the formal signing didn’t occur until August 2nd, and the colonies actually voted to accept it on July 2nd.
There’s all kinds of cool stuff at the Farmer’s Almanac. Have a safe and happy 4th!
©Vivian J Grant. All Rights Reserved.
Hattingdon 