Bells Across America to Ring on September 17

The Daughters of the American Revolution encourage churches, schools, courthouses, fire houses, Veterans homes, city governments and individuals to ring bells on September 17 to commemorate the signing of the United States Constitution 226 years ago.  

From May 1787 to September 17, 1787 the debate on wording of the document and the establishment of the 3 branches of government was fiercely debated. It was the Connecticut Compromise which proposed the two houses of Congress - one with proportional representation (the House of Representatives) and one with equal representation (the Senate) which enabled the delegates to agree. And on Sept 17, 1787 the Constitution was signed. At 4:00 when the delegates emerged from what is now known as Independence Hall in Philadelphia, all the bells rang to celebrate the signing of the Constitution.   Ringing of the bells at 4:00 p.m. is encouraged but any time September 17 is fine.

The DAR perpetuates the memory and spirit of the men and women who won American independence.  The group also helps maintain historic state properties.  Any woman over 18 who can prove an ancestor served in the American Revolution is a prospective member.  For more information on the DAR go online at http://www.sarahriggshumphreysDAR.org