Public Invited to Reading of Declaration of Independence Allentown NJ Relives Colonial Past on July 4th

​“We hold these truths to be self-evident” – familiar words for any American. To celebrate America’s 245th birthday, town leaders from Allentown and Upper Freehold Township will join members of the community to publicly read the Declaration of Independence once again this July 4th.  All are welcome to witness the event at 9 a.m., Sunday, July 4, 2021 in Pete Sensi Park, Main Street in Allentown.

The first public reading of the Declaration of Independence was held in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776, and other readings were held later that same day in Trenton and Easton, Pa. Adopted by Congress on July 4, 1776, copies of the document were printed and sent by messengers to be distributed throughout the newly-founded 13 states.  At the time, Allentown, NJ was a village frequented by many travelers en route from Philadelphia to New York.  It is likely that the Declaration was proclaimed in 1776 from very close to the same site at which it will be read 245 years later on July 4, 2021.

The reading is free and sponsored by The Allentown Village Initiative (TAVI).  Those attending are encouraged to visit local businesses afterwards and enjoy the quaint village atmosphere of our shops and restaurants.  For more information, please call the McCormicks at (609) 208-9991.