The original documents are located in Box 70, folder “Mecklenberg Declaration of Independence” of the John Marsh Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.

Copyright Notice The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections. Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library. Digitized from Box 70 of The John Marsh Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library - May 7

THE WHfTE HOUSE WASHINGTON

Russ --

Re: Mechlenberg Declaration

It was signed May 20, 1775. There is NO original document, only a copy of what is thought to be the original document. There is only one historian in North Carolina who recognizes the Declaration and he is not the leading historian in North Carolina.

The President is presently scheduled to be in Charlotte, N. Carolina on May 20th. This decision was obviously just made in the last few days for the President to do the event.

Thankx.

donna THE WHITE H OUSE WASHINGTON

12.-2·~ --- ~rtJ. c·~~~,.,.,.- ME~10RANDUM APR 2 8 1975 THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

April ,28, 1975

MEMORANDUM TO: PAUL THEIS

FROM: TERESA RHODES

RE: MECKLENBERG, N.C. EVENT

In doing some research on t;.he Mecklenberg Declaration this morning, X have discovered that there is only one professional historian in North carolina who will stand behind the existance of the Declaration. All the big names in history in N.C. do not beleive that the Declaration ever existed. The; gentleman I spoke with who was an assistant professor of North carolina history, said he thought it would be terribly embarrassing for the President to take part in an event celebrating the Mecklenberg Declaration. I beleive it would be wise to call the Director of Archives of North carolina and discuss this matter before anything is done in which the ...... press could really blast us and in which the President would be embarrassed. He will need Southern support in 1976.

The Director of Archives in N.C. is: Robert E. Stite 919-829-3952

cc .. Casserly Waldro:r:. cavaney. Rustand Marsh • • ICe 1a • I

American Revolution Bicentennial Administration 2401 ESt. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20276 Vol. 2 May 1975 Communities Program Reaches 3500

Purposeful Will The Candles Be Blown Out Too Soon? J. Welles Hen­ opportunity to elfaluate the present and Let us, then, collectllfely and as ln­ Aims Seen derson, prominent project and mold the future. dllflduals, take a courageous loofc at Philadelphia lawyer While Americans halfe much to be oursellfes and at those among us who and former United In Activity States Commis- proud of In the past, they halfe much to legislate, who judge, who administer, sioner General for question In the present. who communicate and educate. And let the ARBA-approved Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote: "The us frankly examine how we all compare America's Bicentennial is alive and International Ex­ true test of cllf/1/zat/on Is, not the with the character and the expectations flourishing. position on the En­ census, nor the size of the cities, nor of our founding fathers. An unprecedented surge of interest vironment (Expo the crops - no, but the kind of man the All is not bad. and activity is being recorded at all '74) held in Spokane, country turns out." levels - local, state, regional, national Washington, last year has responded to the The Bicentennial Is a propitious All is not lost. and international. invitation issued in the April issue of THE occasion to re-examine, to reassess, to Ours Is a great country In many TIMES to public figures desiring to comment renew and rededicate. Problems there ways. Our people halfe boundless ARBA's Bicentennial Communities on the purposes and the objectives of the Bi­ Program now encompasses more than centennial. Mr. Henderson is senior partner are, serious and far-ranging: the bleak human spirit and a resilience that can, 3500 recognized communities, more In the law firm of Rawle & Henderson, the economic picture, the disarray In for­ If properly motllfated, serlfe to restore a than 400 of them recognized during the oldest law firm In the United States, founded eign a"alrs, the erosion of family life, basic American spirituality lfltal to the month of April alone. ARBA's goal of in 1783. His comments follow. the expansion of lflolence, and a declin­ future stability and progress of the 5000 is expected to be surpassed by the ing respect for the Institutions of golf­ Nation. end of Fiscal Year 1976. The Master ernment, to name only a few. They are, Stop. Look. Calendar of Events now includes more Is the Bicentennial of America to be howelfer, problems that can and should Don't blow out the birthday candles than 10,000 projects and events. just a nostalgic birthday party? be resollfed If we as a nation apply our­ too soon. The Bicentennial Colleges and Thoughtful Americans seem gen­ sellfes with the forthrightness, the Universities program, similar to the com­ erally to agree that the commemoration fortitude, and the foresight of the Use them to light the way to the munities program and launched only should be much more than that - an founders of this nation. future. toward the end of 1974, has drawn the participation of more than 90 colleges Continued on Page 6 Nationwide Forum Shapes Up Citizens Get American Studies On America's "Now" Issues School Prod Program Expands The following is the first in a series of in­ "Through the American Issues Forum depth reports on the American Issues Forum, we shall be looking at America, asking The State Department's Mutual considered one of the most significant proj­ what is America, how did it come to be Educational and Cultural Exchange ects of the Bicentennial. The second article what it is and what are the problems that On Future Program has become a focal point in the June issue of the TIMES will deal with for the implementation of Bicentennial the implementation of the project. disturb each one of us Americans today," programs abroad. says a prospectus. In essence, the nine North High School in Fargo, N.D. has In cooperation with the United major topics will consider what has hap­ launched a Bicentennial program to in­ States Information Agency and the pened down through the years with crease community awareness of the National Endowment for the Humani­ A nation-wide forum is shaping up, to America's traditions and legacy, and problems and potential of America's ties, the Department has launched an continue through the nine central months what should be done with these tradi­ Third Century. ~ effort to further stimulate American of the Bicentennial Era - a debate in tions and that legacy in the future. Courses for the entire community of .. studies overseas. The effort stems which all Americans, of every origin, will The topics thus would not be brand Fargo are beginning in the North Dakota from increasing foreign awareness of have the opportunity to discuss issues new. Rather they will be subjects which city this month. the Bicentennial and the opportunity it offers for initiating or enlarging such which are truly fundamental to this have been pondered since the days of the The action resulted from a three-day studies in universities and professional nation and its future. Thirteen Colonies, topics such as "what symposium conducted at the school in research institutions. This Bicentennial program is the has kept Americans together through March. During the period, regular classes Particular attention is being paid American Issues Forum, originally sug­ wars, recessions, deep differences?" were suspended and replaced by courses to the possibility of increasing the gested by Walter Cronkite, television What were the early "founding Ameri­ dealing in such aspects of the future as number of chairs and degree programs commentator. It calls for the considera­ cans" like? How did an "American city planning, transportation, television, in American studies in foreign universi­ tion of nine central issues, divided into character'' somehow emerge from our electronic music, architecture, space ties. Also under way is a drive to 36 sub-topics, which will be addressed, tangled roots of origin? technology, man and the ocean, para­ stimulate special research projects by discussed, debated, and probed in the Plans for the Forum were first an­ psychology, the environment, computers, government and private institutions and the formation of library collections. nine months from September 1975 nounced in early May of 1974 by Ronald education, hunger and law enforcement. In addition, the Department has through May 1976. It is hoped that every Berman, chairman of the National Students were required to take a organized a series of international sort of media, public and private format Endowment for the Humanities, and by minimum of 12 hours of classes and conferences on American studies, five and agency, will participate: newspapers Continued on Page 6 members of the community were invited of them regional in scope. The first, and magazines, commercial and public to participate in both daytime and organized for the European region, was television, schools, labor unions, special evening classes. held April 19 through April 23 in churches, service clubs, foundations, Purpose of the project is to stimulate Salzburg. Others are scheduled as fol­ every possible avenue of communication. To see it in our power to make a world creative thought about the future by lows: Tokyo for East Asia and the The National Endowment for the happy - to teach mankind the art of presenting information and ideas rela­ Pacific, September 4 through 7; being so - to exhibit, on the theater of the Teheran for North Africa, September Humanities surveyed representative ting to the problems and potenial of 14 through 17; San Antonio for the national groups to ascertain their interest universe, a character hitherto unknown - coming decades. The expectation is that Western Hemisphere, November 4 in the project. It also consulted a small and to have, as it were, a new creation as a result of increased awareness, through 10, all of which will be held group of distinguished scholars to dis­ entrusted to our hands, are honors that Americans will be better equipped to in 1975; and Lagos for black Africa in cover their judgment of the project's command reflection and can neither be make intelligent choices in determining April of 1976. feasibility. They met with enthusiastic too highly estimated nor too greatly the kind of future they wish to live in. A sixth conference of world-wide support. All systems were "go". A received. The pilot project featured the partici­ character will be held in Washington National Planning Group proceeded to pation of nationally-known specialists in in 1976. identify issues and topics of enduring - Thomas Paine various modern fields of endeavor. Key importance. Continued on Page 6 "The Little City That Could" Calendars Offers Visitor Housing Tips; To Provide Expo '74 Drew 5 Million Tour Aids Communities anticipating housing of the local tourist industry, lodging and transportation problems in connec­ assets in the Spokane area were essen­ The American Revolution Bicentennial tion with Bicentennial tourism may wish tially doubled through the use of sup­ Administration (ARBA) has announced to avail themselves of a helpful tip or two plemental housing. In addition, Spokane plans to publish a series of master calen­ from the Chamber of Commerce of the citizens opened their homes to literally dars of Bicentennial events, beginning in City of Spokane in the State of Wash­ thousands of visiting friends and rela­ late June. ington. tives. While the housing margin was ad­ The calendars will provide details of Spokane, itself a Bicentennial city and mittedly narrow throughout the period the what, when and where for tourists host to last year's successful Interna­ of the Exposition, requests for housing and travelers during the Bicentennial tional Exposition on the Environment were generally satisfactorily met. era. (Expo '74), chalked up a major accom­ At the height of the Exposition, Hospi­ One calendar will list Bicentennial plishment in visitor housing. tality Services coordinated the efforts of events of national and international sig­ The little Northwest city of less than approximately 800 separate facilities, nificance. A second one will include a 200,000 population was able to accom­ representing over 8,000 lodging units more comprehensive listing of events of modate more than 5 million visitors in located within a one-hour drive to the regional and state interest. The calendars the course of the Exposition which ran Exposition grounds. The complaint rate will be updated periodically. from May 4 to November 3 in 1974. remained at about one-half of one per­ The publications will be made avail­ Alan C. Edmonds, a retired Air Force cent of the total reservations processed, able to the travel and tour industry and general who headed Expo '74's Hospi­ indicating that housing standards were the nation's print and broadcast media in tality Services and who is now with the maintained at an acceptable level. the hope that the information will then SJ'okane Chamber of Commerce, told the Transportation facilities proved to be become available to the general public. BICENTENNIAL TIMES that the Spokane equally satisfactory. The organizers Pennsylvania To compile necessary data, the ARBA Chamber would be happy to supply in­ dedicated intensive efforts to enlistment has renewed its efforts to obtain and up­ teres~d communities with copies ot the of cooperation by airlines, bus lines, date specific details on Bicentennial Expo '74 report on visitor accommoda­ railroads and travel agencies, producing Passports To events which will be taking place around tions on request. an important increase in transportation the nation during the next 21 months. The Expo '74 Corporation recognized facilities. Improvements and expansion The Amusement Business Division of early in its planning that two key factors of the Spokane airport facilities enabled Lure Visitors Billboard Publications, Inc., under con­ in the success of any major tourist attrac­ the airport to cope satisfactorily with the tract with the ARBA, is making direct tion were adequate housing and trans­ anticipated increase in air travel to the The State of Pennsylvania is preparing contact by mail and telephone with all portation. city. to issue "passports" to its Bicentennial known sponsors of events such as Bicen­ The organizers of the exposition jointly Public works officials of the State of visitors. And anyone who gets at least tennial communities, convention bu­ with the Spokane Chamber of Commerce Washington cooperated by speeding up three visas in his passport will receive a reaus, tour and travel organizations, fairs, formed Hospitality Services, a non-profit their efforts to complete a freeway run­ a gift commemorating his tour of the expositions, and chambers of commerce. organization with the responsibility of ning east and west through the city in ad­ Keystone state. The Discover America Travel Organi­ ensuring, within the limits of available vance of the opening of the Exposition, This is how Pennsylvania expects to zation (DATO), which represents most resources, the mobilization of lodging thus facilitating easy and rapid access by lure visitors during the next two years. of the travel associations throughout the facilities into a central reservation motorists. The passports will be an ambitious un­ nation, is supporting the effort. system. Communities interested in obtaining dertaking, each numbering over forty Through the cooperation of State Bi­ Through the efforts of this organiza­ copies of the Expo '74 accommodations pages which will include sections cover­ centennial Commissions, the ARBA has tion and in cooperation with apartment report may write to General Edmonds at ing 13 major regions of the Common­ already developed a preliminary Official owners, local colleges and other sectors the Spokane Chamber of Commerce, W. wealth, with details of their historic, Master Register of Bicentennial Activi­ 1020 Riverside, P.O. Box 2147, Spokane, cultural and scenic attractions. ties which contains over 6,000 programs, Washington, 99210. Enclose 50 cents for The passports are intended to serve a plans and scheduled events. postage and handling. dual purpose. give visitors a guide to­ I he ARBA 1s now askmg Those w-no-­ Notice Bicentennial sites and events, and pro­ have previously submitted information, vide a lasting memento of participation In response to Inquiries, the Ameri­ much of which was in the planning stage "Americana Collection" in the nation's 200th birthday. at the time, to resubmit specifics on the can Revolution Bicentennial Ad­ In these "Passports to History" there ministration advises that Its full-color event and reconfirm dates, places and Community Exhibit, 16 feet by 8 feet, The Bicentennial Association of Texas will be pages for visas which will be other pertinent details. The ARBA is also Is available only to those who will pay has opened its Bicentennial celebration stamped as a visitor travels from one re­ issuing a public call to those who are the costs of transport to Its destination with an advance showing of the Joseph gion to another. When a visitor has at planning Bicentennial events, but have and return. Costs for Its dispatch to Boggs Beale Americana Collection which least three visa stamps, one of the match­ not· provided information for the master Houston, Texas, and back to Wash­ will begin a nationwide tour starting in ing visa pages can be sent to the state calendars, to do so. ington, are estimated at $800. Philadelphia in September. capital and an "appropriate" gift will be Sponsors wishing to enter event in­ ARBA has only one copy of this The original water colors by Beale, one forthcoming. standing display, which Is on loan in formation in the Bicentennial Event the New Orleans region May 16-17. of 19th Century America's foremost artists Master Calendars can obtain forms from The Community Exhibit is shipped In and illustrators, is now owned by the the ARBA, its regional offices, or State two parcels, one a crate measuring American National Insurance Company Low-Cost Travel Bicentennial Commissions. There is no 8% by 3% by 3% feet, the other a 3 feet of Galveston. Titled "Star-Spangled His­ charge for listing in the Calendars. tube. The exhibit, because of the haz­ tory" the collection was the centerpiece Cited In New Book Additionally, information can be en­ ard of rain damage, Is not suitable for of a gala organized by the Association tered directly by calling Amusement outdoor display. last month in the Lyndon Baines John­ Business in Nashville, Tennessee at (615) son Library in Austin. There's good news for budget travelers 329-3925. tl in the second edition of WHERE TO Information the ARBA seeks includes T STAY USA published by the Council on the dates and times of the events, prices, it International Educational Exchange. whether reservations are necessary, B The publication has been endorsed by status of accomodations, contacts for nt ARBA as an outstanding effort which information, and the like. will encourage a wider range of lodging All information received on Bicenten­ cc and thus wider participation of both U.S. nial plans, programs and events is en­ th citizens and international visitors in this tered into ARBA's automated Bicenten­ W1 ra1 country's 200th anniversary celebration. nial Information Network (BINET). For The 304-page paperback contains on-line, up-to-the minute service, BINET state-by-state listings of 1250 places to subscribers may use computer terminals. les stay for under $9.00 (some for as little as The ARBA also offers special information POi 50 cents, some even gratis). It also con­ services, at cost, to anyone who needs it. niz, tains listings of hotlines and switch­ Information on the use of BINET can be boards to call in emergencies or for in­ obtained by contacting Master Calendar Eth formation and advice, information on Services, ARBA, 2401 E Street, N.W., rep1 transportation discounts and how to take Washington, D.C., 20276; (202) 634-1723. cen advantage of them, tourist information find including the availability of maps, I tali• brochures and directions; maps of each I never had a feeling, politically, that sent state pinpointing the accomodations did not spring from the sentiments em­ .. , listed; hitchhiking laws and attitudes bodied in the Declaration of Indepen­ Will I around the country, and a special section dence ... I have often inquired of myself centt for foreign visitors. what great principle or ide,a it was that M WHERE TO STAY USA was written for kept this Confederacy so long together the the Council by Marjorie A. Cohen and ... it was that which gave promise that in Coun co-published by the Frommer/Pasman­ due time the weights would be lifted cente tier Publishing Corporation. Copies are from the shoulders of all men, and that Dr. Paul Whear, composer-in-residence at Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, has available for $2.95 in bookstores and written a Bicentennial musical epic entitled "The Chief Justice" in honor of Chief Justice John all should have an equal chance. Marshall, the Revolutionary War soldier, congressman and statesman for whom Marshall Univer­ from the CIEE, Oept. EH, 777 United -Abraham Lincoln sity was named. The opus requires two narrators, two soloists, a symphonic orchestra and a Nations Plaza, New York, N.Y., 10017, or Speech In Independence Hall large chorus. It was premiered at the university in April and is expected to go on road tours later 235 East Santa Clara St., Suite 710, San Philadelphia, 22 February, 1861 this year and in 1976. Jose, California 95113. Norwegians To Mark 150 Years In U.S.

The Norwegians who have settled in ,I the United States are having an anni­ j versary of their own-but a Sesquicen­ tennial rather than a Bicentennial. , Organized Norwegian immigration to the United States began 150 years ago ,f when the sloop "Restauration" left s Stavanger on July 4, 1825, with 53 immi­ tl grants on board. These immigrants became known as ll "The Sloopers." Today, their descendants are organized in a "Siooper Society" and a will play a role in official Sesquicenten­ •f nial celebrations in Illinois. s During the 100 years following the ,_ arrival of the good ship "Restauration," some 800,000 Norwegians sailed directly d to the United States; an unknown number n arrived through Canada. Some had reli­ n gious reasons for leaving Norway, but most left for economic or social-economic ~ reasons. I­ A large number became farmers in the ll Midwestern states. Others settled ln New d York, Chicago, Minneapolis, Seattle and other cities. Still others became fisher­ )f men in the Northwest or sailors in the placing special Bicentennial emphasis understanding among the English, Scottish, Irish, black, German, 1- merchant marine. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ its various ethnic and racial groups. Its French and other ethnic elements of the population. The Jewish ele­ :t annual eigh ounders' Festival is expected to attract as many ment was celebrated in April and the Greeks are receiving their share Norway has today a population of II as 500,000 visitors this year. The overall objective is to promote greater of the limelight during the month of May. slightly under four million. The Nor­ l- wegian element in the United States 1- consists of more than three million people. Bicentennial Seen Uniting Indian Center Sets Sesquicentennial committees have i­ "Festival of Life" been established in New York, Chicago, st Nation's Ethnic Minorities Minneapolis and Seattle. In Norway, a le Approximately 3,000 American national committee is planning three Indians representing 42 tribes live days of festivities starting in Stavanger i­ Mrs. Claire Chennault, in a special in the Wichita, Kansas, area. At the on July 4. lS interview with the Bicentennial Times, spit of land where the Big and Little The program for the United States al said the Bicentennial is a means by which Arkansas Rivers meet in downtown calls for a tribute to Norway in New York's ·i- all ethnic minorities in the United States Wichita stands the new mid-Ameri­ Carnegie Hall October 7. King Olav V of S, can improve their image and their role in can All-Indian Center. Norway has accepted an invitation to at­ America. The Center is an officially recog­ tend. The King will go on tour, visiting 0 Mrs. Chennault, the Peiphtg"born nized ARBA program and repres­ Mmneapolis, Crneago and Seattle. Cele­ ,, widow of Lt. Gen. Claire Chennault, is a ents a national resource for Indian brations will also include a visit by Nor­ re vice president of Flying Tiger Line. As culture, research and information. wegian Bishop Kare Stoylen, a lecture by le she sees it, the Bicentennial can be truly Included in the building are per­ author-explorer Thor Heyerdahl, a Royal d representative of all minorities working formance areas, a National Mu­ visit to Northfield, Minnesota, where St. '0 together. seum and a National Library of the Olaf College was founded by Norwegian ·e The modern Chinese-American is North American Indian, educa­ immigrants, and a similar Royal visit to re somewhat "tired of making egg rolls and tional facilities for the instruction Decorah, Iowa, where Luther College of Indian crafts, dance and song, ~r doing other people's laundry" and is had a similar origin. turning to academic pursuits and the sci­ and an outdoor exhibition area In late August and early September l­ entific community as the new means of with Indian lodgings and living the famous Norwegian windjammer It expressing himself, Mrs. Chennault be­ areas representing tribal cultures "Christian Radich" will visit Washing­ Tl lieves. This activist viewpoint, she says, MRS CHENNAULT nationwide. ton, D.C., New York and other East Coast :e means no disrespect to Chinese who During 1976, the Center will ports. 0 operate restaurants and laundries. What "Every American wants to be involved stage a national "Festival of Life" For information on the Norwegian is not widely recognized is that the in the Bicentennial," she comments. "We focusing upon the Native Ameri­ Festival, write to The Norway Center, l­ Chinese Americans represent an ethnic are busy people, but it's everybody's can. Included will be multi-media 300 3rd Avenue, West, Seattle, Washing­ It minority which is helping to bring about birthday, and we're all glad to give of our presentations, workshops on ton, 98119, or telephone Svein Gilje, i) an effective but peaceful improvement in time. Americans, I find, want to get things Indian religious rituals, a tribal Norwegian American Anniversary Com­ the American way of I ife. done. Any time you've got a project, you'll historians and spiritual leadership mission (206) 525 7191, Seattle. find people who want to get involved. council, games, crafts, concerts, ~s "We have not marched, we have not The Norwegians, like the Swedes, have and a market of Native American S, indulged in violent protest, but we That's what this country is all about; I played a prominent role in settlirtg sev­ don't believe you'll find quite this situa­ foods. (, Chinese are doing what we can to set a eral areas of the U.S. King Olaf's viSit will tion anywhere else in the world. We're The Wichita Bicentennial Com­ lr good example. help to stress that role. proud of our past, and we want to work mission, the Kansas Council on the "The Chinese in America are proving hard to make our future successful." Arts, the Kansas Bicentennial I­ themselves to be genuine Americans. I- Mrs. Chennault will be a participant in Commission, and private sponsors 45 Groups Join They cherish their heritage, and they feel the Conference on the "Life, Influence undertook development of the 1- it is important to preserve that heritage. In Toledo Festival lr and Role of the Chinese in the United Center. It is expected to attract two But they stress education. They see a States, 1776-1960" at San Francisco on million visitors. Some 6000 persons representing 45 T need, even, to rewrite some textbooks-to s. July 10-12 of this year. different nationalities and ethnic groups correct the impression, for instance, that will participate in this year's International n the only Chinese contribution to America t. Festival at Toledo, Ohio, on May 16, 17 was help in building the transcontinental Anacostia Museum Traces Black History and 18. •e railroad." · lr The Anacostia Neighborhood Museum the cattle trails were black. So were four About 60,000 persons saw last year's "We Chinese are a small minority­ of the Smithsonian Institution in Wash­ infantry and cavalry units of the U.S. program, and a similar 60,000 are ex­ .. less than one per cent of the American 3. ington has opened a Bicentennial exhibi­ Army. pected this year. There are ample hotel­ population. But we wish to be recog­ tion devoted to telling how blacks have motel accommodations to handle this nized as first-class citizens," she says. There were black government agents, contributed to American history. Entitled marshals, and black homesteaders. audience. it As a member of the Bicentennial "Blacks in the Westward Movement", This festival represents one of the ,_ Ethnic Racial Council (BERC) which Although discrimination and injustice ,_ the show continues through June 1, 1975. often followed the blacks, many were largest aggregations of ethnic groupings represents the ethnic minorities in Bi­ Using photographs, silk screens, text in the United States. One can see centennial activities, Mrs. Chennault able to settle and build successful lives If and artifacts, the exhibition relates the in the West. Ukrainian sword dancers, Bulgarian­ it finds that all the minorities- black, story of the blacks who helped explore, Macedonian "Kolo's", authentic German If Italian, Polish, Baltic and others-repre­ conquer and settle the western portion of John R. Kinard, director of the Ana­ beer gardens, a ballet of young Mexicans, n sent a very great deal of talent. the United States. costia Neighborhood Museum, says, "This and many more performers. Ambassa­ d "If we put this to effective use, BERC In the 16th century there were blacks exhibition has been created to spotlight dors and consular representatives from it will be a very successful part of the Bi­ with the Spanish explorers of the South­ the struggle, the achievements and the many countries will attend. centennial," she says. west and there were blacks among the compelling desire that we continue to Visiting dancers from foreign lands, Mrs. Chennault is also a member of first settlers in California. They founded explore and establish." including Jamaica and Poland, are to be the 25-person Bicentennial Advisory towns in several states-Kansas, Okla­ The Museum has produced six copies seen. Only the Folk-Fare festival at Mil­ Council, which exists to advise the Bi­ homa, Nebraska and Washington. An of the Exhibition to travel throughout the waukee may possibly exceed this Toledo - centennial as to program and policy. estimated 8000 of the 35,000 who rode country during the Bicentennial. spectacular in size or pageantry. Before dawn on May 10th, 1775, Ethan Allen and 83 of hla Vermont Green Moun­ tain Boya croned Lake Champlain to capture Fort Ticonderoga. This action piHed Americana against ; British army garrl­ aoned In a defenalble fortress for the flrat time. See the calendar for reenactment times.

MONDAY TUESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 1 2 3 Photos left to right: National Portrait Gallery u.s. Armed Fore• U.S. Armed Forces Washington, D.C. Bicentennial Band Bicentennial Band First Baptist c urchIn "The Die Ia Now Cast" Onondaga County Niagara Falls International America, Provi ence, Rl. Exhibit, more than 250 War Memorial Auditorium Convention Center items chron~ling the years Syracuse, N.Y. N~ara Falla. N.Y. 1774-1776; Free. 8:30 p.m. Free 8: p.m. . Free V.A Declaratio U.S. Armed Forces FI'MdomTNin G. Walton by . W. Peale Bicentennial Band Worcester, Massachusetts Watertown HI~ School Open dally 8:00 a.m.·10:00 R. H. Lee by Cl W. Peale Watertown, N. . 8 p.m. Free L~ac:Mt . $1.00/under 18 St. John's Chukh, Richmond, VA. Site of P. enry's speech. 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 u.s. Armed Forces Carnegie Ubrary exhibit Freedom Train Ubrary of Congretl u.s. Armed Forces Cepture of Fort R t.nnl•l Rand "~urvf'! · Y. • • •• -· ...- -· • • 0 &-···I - speech.

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Fife and Drum Corpt U.S. Armed Forces Carnegie Library exhibit Freedom Library of Cong,.... U.S. Armed Forces Cepture of Fort Three-hour performance Bicentennial Band "Survey of Visual Arts Rochester, Sympotlum Bicentennial Band Ticonderoga, includes Qrafts, films, Marwick Boyd Auditorium in South Dakota", Open daily "The Impact of the Bliss Hall Ticonderoga, N.Y. re-enactment. Free Clarion, Pa. Canton, S.D. p.m. . American Revolution Carlisle Barracks, Pa. Re-enactments, 3:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m. Free Through May 26 $2.00/adult, $ 18 1:00 p.m. Free Norwich Bicentennial Abroad" 10:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m. Two-day discussions with Committee U.S. Armed Forces U.S. Armed FQtMS The forum Fife and Drum Corps Norwich, CT 06360 Bicentennial Bend distinguished scholars. musters. Ox roast. Bicentennial ~d Pre-registration required. Harrisburg, Pa. Free (213) 886-0630 Plum Senior High School University Au rium 8:00p.m. Free University Par , Pa. Free U.S. Armed Forces Plum Borough, Pa. Independence National 1:00 p.m. Fret 8:00p.m. F Bicentennial Band Dr. James Hutson Historical Park, Kleinhans Music Hall Penn Trafford School library of Cbnoress Philadelphia Buffalo, N.Y. Harrison City, Pa. 10 First St., S.E. Commemoration of 8:30 p.m. Free 1:19 p.m. Free Washington, D.C. 20540 Convening of Second Carnegie Music Hall (202) 42'&-5000 Continental Congr888 Pittsburgh, Pa. National Park Service 8:00 p.m. Free 11 14 15 t Colonial NaUonal Freedom Trai USA '76 Exhibit "The World of Franklin Historical Park Cleveland, Oh opens in Seattle, and Jefferlon" Open daily 8:00 a.m.-10:00 Washington ARBA Exhibit opens in 6eo;!~~:ro~:''nit~ p.m. Pacific Science Center. Warsaw Poland after Jamestown Day $2.00/adult, $1;QO/under 18 Science Center charges successful .showing In Paris National Park Service admission: $1.50/adult, $.75/student, $3.00/famlly.

Boston Forum Freedom Train Cettle Clinton Boston, Massachusetts, Columbus, Ohio NaUonel Monument Program on 200 years of Open daily. 8:00 a.m.-10:00 American Landmark self-government. Festival Concert New England Life Hall L~o'otadt.dt, $1.00/under 18 Boston, MA National Park Service 4:30p.m. cuue Clinton Free National Monument Broadcast on National Formal Opening of the Public Radio, 8:30 EST, Bicentennial celebration May 25, with Sander of New York City Vanocur. National Park Service

NaUonel Seashore Opening of Chlckthaw Cape Hatteras, N.C. coast Indian Cemetery Historical vignettes of life Ada, Oklahoma on North Carolina Outer Two-day ceremonies Banks Free National Park Service Ada Bicentennial Committee National MIHterv Park Fort Donelson, ..,-enn. Living history program depleting Confederate garrison life; National Park Service Forum Seeks Out Issues Disturbing America Today Continued from Page One composition, what were their occupa­ Are Americans, as some think, the mere drudgery. The promise of being John Warner, Administrator of the tions? How do we treat immigrants hardest working people on earth, or at new, young, in the forefront of an adven­ American Revolution Bicentennial Ad­ today? least the most productive? What about ture, on top of things." How important ministration, with the endorsement of Theodore Roosevelt once wrote that the aim of American labor, to gain more will these driving ideas be in America's John D. Rockefeller, Ill, a leader of Bi­ "there is no room in this country for advantages and more productivity for life over the next century? centennial planning in the private sector. hyphenated Americanism". But many less and less toil? Are Americans too No one can be sure what conclusions . A calendar of discussion topics will people today want to be known as preoccupied with business, with com­ will develop. But Americans of all origins include the following: Italian-Americans, Mexican-Americans, mercialism? What is our correct posture and capacities may know a little more Discussed first of all would be the Afro-Americans. Is it better to remember in foreign policy - how wisely have we about who they are, and what they may meaning of "we the people". Walt or to forget native origins? mixed the four "basic elements" of for­ become, if these topics in the American Whitman called the United States "a Americans have built up many alle­ eign policy: the military, humanitarian, Issues Forum are handled with skill and teeming nation of nations". Where did giances, many loyalties. What happens economic and diplomatic? wisdom. these people come from? What induced when loyalties collide? What makes a What part have our families, our them to leave sheltered lives and strike good citizen? schools, our churches, our communities out into the unknown? What keeps them Other broad topics will be discussed. played in developing the "American * * * together today? What is the basis of Have we used this bountiful land waste­ character"? brotherhood? fully? To what extent are we keeping A compelling set of topics! In the For brochures, reading lists, discus­ The "founding fathers" and their growth in harmony with nature? Are we ninth, final month "Life, Liberty and the sion materials and other information beliefs would be delved into. And the exercising our freedoms wisely? Are we Pursuit of Happiness" will be discussed. relative to the American Issues Forum explorers, colonizers, adventurers, diluting our ideals in practice? How well Archibald MacLeish says that "America write or call The National Endowment slaves, runaways, religious dissenters - has the doctrine of the separation of is promises. The promise of self-fulfil­ for the Humanities, 806 15th Street, how did they forge a new nation? Two powers worked? How about the doctrine ment, of being free and independent ... N.W., Washington, D.C., 20506, Tele­ centuries of immigrants - what was their of judicial review of the Constitution? the promise of a life satisfying beyond phone (202) 382-7465.

Fargo Community Drawn Into Bicentennial Courses

Continued from Page One Committee for the Humanities and Public speaker was Alvin Toffler, author of the Issues. book FUTURE SHOCK. Others were Further information may be obtained Italian-born architect Paolo Soleri, from Mrs. Margaret Law, North High science-fiction writer Ray Bradbury, School, Fargo, N.D., 58102, or from Mr. computer musicologist Dr. Sterling Vince Lindstrom, Fargo Department of Bechwith of Toronto, Canada, aerospace Public Schools, Fargo, N.D., 58102. technologist Leo F. Childs of NASA, and Dr. William Copperthwaite, director of the Yurt Foundation of Bucks Harbor, 'Minutes' Fees Go Maine. Students reported on the results of an interview conducted in Philadel­ For Research phia with famed mathematician, archi­ tect, poet, and philosopher A. Buckmins­ Performers and other public figures ter-Fuller. whe BFe ABFI'&ti~ ~he~ The symposium was organized and tennial Minutes" are donating their directed by Mrs. Margaret Law, assistant fees to establish graduate fellow­ principal at North High, and Vince ships in the study of American Lindstrom, coordinator of cultural history of the Revolutionary services for the Fargo Public Schools. period. The Minutes are broadcast Most of the classes were conducted by daily in prime time on the CBS members of the faculties of North Dakota Television Network through July 4, State University at Fargo, and Concordia 1976. Robert D. Wood, President of College and Moorhead State College of the Network, has disclosed that the Standing by a model of BI-CENT-EX, HEW's Bicentennial Exhibition Center, Assistant Secretary Moorehead, Minnesota. Board of Directors of the CBS for Administration and Management John Ottina discusses the variety of exhibits with Miss Sponsorship and funding of the project Foundation, Inc., voted to partici­ Elizabeth Clinton, Regional Bicentennial Coordinator, Denver Regional Office. BI-CENT-EX will pate in the project by adding three premier in the Washington, D.C. South Portal Building in early July. Through the cooperation of was provided by the Fargo Public HEW's Regional Director Rulon Garfield (Denver), Miss Clinton spent a week in Washington Schools, the North Dakota Bicentennial times the narrators' contributions searching the ARBA computer system, BINET, for projects related to the aging and the handi­ Commission, the Fargo-Moorehead Cen­ to the grants. capped. tennial Committee, and the North Dakota

B-icentennial Upswing Reported at all Levels

Continued from Page One and ethnic groups, the American Indian, decision-making processes of govern­ colonial locations; replicas of Revolu­ and universities with many others ex­ the environment, participatory democ­ ment, has found added support in the tionary War cannons, uniforms and cloth­ pected to join. racy, education, communications, and newly-organized Citizen Involvement ing are being made; dramas and histori­ There is pageantry galore as befits many other areas of concern. Network which integrated ARBA's cal vignettes are being prepared; and any historic celebrative occasion. But The "American Issues Forum", con­ original "Community Goals" project. new films, exhibits, publications, and there is more than that. Many Americans ceived by TV Newsman Walter Cronkite, Virtually every Federal agency is in­ living history programs are in produc­ are delving into the past to search for is among those major Bicentennial activi­ volved in Bicentennial planning. Many tion. answers to some of the problems that ties with a potential for lasting impact on of their projects are of major proportions An impressive and encouraging rally beset them today; they are preparing to the nation. Important advances have and significance. Among these are the is noted in the private sector. ARBA has engage in debate. Others are preserving been made in the implementation of this Department of Health, Education and established contact with more than 3,000 or restoring symbols of the values, program which aims at the collective Welfare's program of studies and re­ corporations, trade associations; service, principles, and virtues of the American engagement of the American people in a search covering a broad range of health civic and fraternal organizations, labor Revolution. Many more are bending their thoughtful examination of issues funda­ problems; the Department of Housing groups and religious institutions with the efforts toward improving the quality of mental to the development and the future and Urban Development's selection of purpose of assisting in meaningful Bi­ life in their communities. of American society. 200 exemplary projects of community centennial programs or to help generate Reports from the field indicate a Of special significance is the forma­ achievement in meeting 20th Century new activities. remarkable adherence to ARBA's three tion of the Bicentennial Ethnic and Racial challenges; the American Revolution More than 40 foreign countries have Bicentennial themes of "Heritage '76", Council. As a result of an ARBA initia­ Symposia of the Library of Congress; indicated their desire to participate in "Festival USA", and "Horizons '76." tive, representatives of more than 90 and the National Endowment for the the American Bicentennial and 25 have These themes underwent an intensive national, ethnic and racial groups from Humanities' development of a nation­ already established Bicentennial com­ process of refinement last year, resulting all parts of the country have organized to wide Bicentennial youth debate. missions of their own. in the formulation of new guidelines insure ethnic, minority and native Ameri­ The National Park Service is planning aimed at encouraging substantive and can participation in Bicentennial plan­ a varied program of special events and Many of these activities are reflected meaningful programming . around the ning. activities for the estimated 270 million in this issue of the TIMES. country. ARBA's "Call to Achievement visitors to its historical, natural, and rec­ The panorama of Bicentennial action Major national programs have Program", initiated to encourage re­ reational areas. New and expanded around the country surely speaks for emerged covering youth, women, racial newal of citizen involvement in the visitor centers are under way at 10 itself.

.J International

FOREIGN INTEREST in America's Bicentennial celebration is growing. Thus far, more than 40 countries have indicated their desire to participate during 1975 and 1976. Bicentennial Com­ mittees have been established in France, the United Kingdom, the Federal Repub­ lic of Germany, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Spain, Finland, Austria, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Norway, Thailand, Denmark, Sweden, Israel, Japan, Lebanon, Cyprus, Yugoslavia, Iceland, Iran, Ireland and the Philippines. Many countries have already begun par­ ticipating·in such programs as the Smith­ sonian Institution's Folklife Festival. Foreign participation offers an oppor­ tunity for the reaffirmation of historical and cultural ties with those countries which have directly contributed to the development of the United States. * * * FRANCE has expanded its plans for Bicentennial participation. In addition to sponsoring the Sound and Light spectacle at Mount Vernon, the French are plan­ ning for the participation of the Paris Opera in the Kennedy Center Bicenten­ nial Festival. They will also send two major exhibits and at least seven smaller performing arts groups to the United States in 1976. President Ford receives a set of historical volumes at a White House Louis Wozar, President of Sister Cities International (right). In the ceremony marking the participation of the SOOth American city in the background, left to right, are Vice Mayor David K. Lisk, Roanoke, VA; * * * Sister Cities Program with the affiliation of the City of Savannah, Mayor James McGee, Dayton OH; T. W. Gittins, Executive Vice Presi­ THE UNITED KINGDOM is planning a Georgia, and the City of Patras, Greece. The presentation was made by dent, Sister Cities International; and Ambassador Joseph Palmer 2nd. series of activities in the fields of cultural and educational exchange and the per­ forming arts. It is also organizing the presentation of a Bicentennial bell to the Savannah Joins Greek City U.S. Paintings City of Philadelphia, and has approved plans for a military tatoo tour of Ameri­ In SOOth Sister City Link To Open U.K. can cities featuring British units which fought in the Revolutionary War. Savannah, Georgia, has become the new milestone in the development of the SOOth U.S. City to join the U.S. Sister City program. Celebration * * * ~. an international program re­ Theb~-''Ttle-omnntm'Spffifof~. ITALY has announced a one-million ceiving special emphasis in Bicentennial "The Pictorial History of the American An exhibition of 48 paintings from the dollar subsidy for the La Scala Opera of planning. Revolution", and "The American Leg­ Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts-a Milan to appear in the Kennedy Center's Savannah elected to affiliate with the acy"-were chosen as representative of the selection of its best-will go on a tour of Bicentennial Festival in 1976. The BER­ City of Patras, Greece. Both are port cities U.S. Sister City Program which brings Britain in July to open the American Bi­ LIN OPERA has scheduled performances and both have populations of approxi­ together people of diverse ethnic and centennial celebration in the United at the Center for the fall of 197S. mately 120,000. racial backgrounds in voluntary ex­ Kingdom. * * * The Bicentennial goal for the Sister changes at all levels of the community. The exhibit will open at the United Cities program, according to the spon­ There are now S35 U.S. cities, with a States Embassy in London on July 4. combined population of 30 million OVERSEAS ACTIVITIES now include soring organization-Sister Cities Inter­ Later it will be shown in Glasgow and Americans, affiliated with 691 cities, two major Bicentennial programs in national of Washington, D.C.-is 1776 Bristol. It will return to the United States towns and villages in 73 other nations. Australia, eight in the Netherlands, and sister cities by 1976. The combined total for a special exhibit at the Whitney The program represents millions of a comparable number in Austria for 1976. now stands at 1226 U.S. and foreign cities Museum of American Arts in New York Americans and their counterparts abroad To date, four overseas organizations have affiliated. in December. been endorsed by ARBA in recognition of working together in voluntary projects The occasion of the SOOth American projects being undertaken in behalf of of exchange. It was launched in 19S6 by Among the more famous paintings on affiliation was marked by a special cere­ the Bicentennial. They are the Australian­ President Eisenhower. The 200th Anni­ the tour will be "Penn's Treaty with the mony in the White House on March 2S American Association of Sydney, the Visit versary of the nation coincides with the Indians" by Benjamin West and "The with the participation of President Ford America Foundation of The Hague, the 20th anniversary of the program. Lansdown Portrait of George Washing­ who is honorary chairman of Sister Cities Dusseldorf Art Academy, and the Japa­ Sister Cities International is a private, ton" by Gilbert Stuart. nese Association for American Studies. International. non-profit organization through which Louis Wozar, a Dayton, Ohio, industri­ cities and their residents carry out a wide Selections were made with an Anglo­ * * * alist who is president of the organization, variety of cultural, educational, youth, American audience in mind. Hir;toric OPERATION SAIL '76 now includes presented President Ford with three professional, technical, and municipal works selected were those likely to in­ the participation of 47 ships from 12 volumes of American history to mark the exchanges. terest Britons, and moderns like Andrew countries. The event is scheduled for New Wyeth were chosen as likely to have York City in July of 1976. An international special value in British eyes. naval review is also a possibility. French To Mark Historic U.S. Road Academy Director Richard Boyle said * * * Between Yorktown and Mount Vernon the collection will be returned to the FOREIGN VISITORS continue to call Pennsylvania Academy in time for its on ARBA Administrator Warner to dis­ The French Bicentennial Committee beau and Lafayette during the campaign scheduled reopening on April 22, 1976. cuss Bicentennial plans. Latest visitors has announced approval of a project to leading up to Yorktown. Mr. Weeks is A $16,000 grant from the Pennsylvania were Dr. Heinz Krekeler, German Bicen­ mark the Washington-Rochambeau preparing a map of these routes for pub­ Council on the Arts, and a $20,000 grant tennial Coordinator for States, Communi­ Highway between Yorktown and Mount lication in 1976. from the National Council on the Arts, ties, and the Private Sector, and M. Michel Vernon in Virginia. will help finance the tour. The work is being financed partly by Guy, Secretary of State for Cultural Af­ The announcement came through the the French Chapter of the Society of the fairs of France. Administrator Warner is French Consul General in Houston, M. Cincinnati and partly by the French Gov­ scheduled to receive in the near future Reginald de Warren on whose initiative representatives of the Finnish Bicenten­ the project came into being. M. de ernment. It seems to have been reserved to the nial Committee, the Director General of Warren has been working on the plan in The project consists of placing kiosk people of this country, by this conduct the British Council, and the new Presi­ his capacity as representative of the markers at five or six tourist rest areas in and example, to decide the important dent of the Italian Bicentennial Com­ French Chapter of the Society of the Virginia containing maps showing routes question, whether societies of men are mittee. Cincinnati in cooperation with Parke to interesting areas accessible from the really capable or not of establishing good government from reflection and Rouse of the Virginia Bicentennial Com­ highway. A number of aluminum high­ choice, or whether they are forever * * * mittee and the State of Virginia Highway way signs shaped like shields and carry­ destined to depend tor their political IN RESPONSE to changing foreign at­ Department. ing an escutcheon composed of the eagle titudes concerning the future course of Another major figure in the project is of the French Cincinnati and three constitutions on accident and force. American foreign policy, the United States Elie Weeks, chairman of a sub-committee French Fleur de Lis will be erected at -Alexander Hamilton Information Agency is developing a multi­ of the Virginia Bicentennial Commission locations where the highway bifurcates. The Federalist No. 1 media project to communicate the vitality which is tracing the routes followed by The Virginia Highway Department has of contemporary America to audiences the French Army and distinguished designated the route and will erect ap­ abroad. French personalities such as Rocham- propriate markers. Youths Join The States Bicentennial

With this issue of the TIMES, the new column THE STATES will replaceARBA's Probe of U.S. weekly BICENTENNIAL BULLETIN. Items in this column will be selected for Young people in more than 23,000 their utility as relevant ideas for Bicen­ schools and colleges across the United tennial activity in other communities. States will be engaged in lively debate as part of their observance of the Bicen­ * * * tennial. THE NEW ORLEANS Bicentennial A nationwide program involving these Commission has launched a major drive hundreds of thousands of young Ameri­ for funds to underwrite nearly 100 locally­ cans in debate and public speaking com­ endorsed projects and activities. Among petition - a program called Bicentennial the many methods developed for project Youth Debates- is supported by a grant financing is the formation of a "Boot­ from the National Endowment for the straps Committee", whose members have Humanities. It is officially recognized by initiated a "Dollar-a-Year" program. The the American Revolution Bicentennial program aims at encouraging citizen con­ Administration. tributions of $1.00 for each year of the Nation's existence. A number of prominent Americans will serve on the national advisory * * * council of the debates. They include former Secretary of State Dean Rusk, NEBRASKA 4-H CLUB members have ARBA Administrator John Warner recently visited the Living History Farms of Iowa after former Supreme Court Justice Arthur presenting Bicentennial flags to Governor Robert Ray and the president of Iowa State University launched their second Bicentennial Robert Parks. He is shown with Darwin Thede and one of Thede's team of oxen on display at the Goldberg, CBS television correspondent project involving a speaking contest on Farms located northwest of Des Moines. The Farm's living history exhibit is part of the Bicen­ Walter Cronkite, Sen. Barry Goldwater the to"pic "Our American Heritage". Over tennial celebration in Iowa. of Arizona, William F. Buckley, author, 1,500 4-H'ers are expected to participate. editor and columnist, George Meany, The first was a music contest dedicated president of the AFL-CIO, and Joseph to the "Spirit of '76." The clubs are also Block, chairman of the Merit Scholar­ participating in "Bicentennial Commu­ ship Corporation. nity Pride" projects aimed at improving Describing the objectives of the neighborhood quality of life. Boston Two-Year Study program, national director Richard * * * Husemen, a recognized educator in com­ Aims At Values, Principles munications, said "the vital role debate DELAWARE COUNTY, Pennsylvania, has played in the American experience families will host German, English, and By seminars and symposiums, by tele­ On most programs interested citizens makes this program an especially appro­ French families during 1975 and 1976 as vision and radio, and by books eventually may phone in with questions. A modera­ priate bicentennial commemoration." part of the "Meet the Americans" pro­ to be published, Boston is conducting a tor, Sander Vanocur, will handle the dis­ Jim Luck, associate project director gram launched in cooperation with the two-year examination of the principles cussion. Further programs are arranged and formerly director of debate at Texas Delaware County Bicentennial Com­ and values which have played a vital role for June and July, and from October 1975 Christian University, said the topic areas mission. The foreign families will visit in American self-government. An audi­ through April and May of 1976. Promi­ to be discussed will be coordinated with with county families for periods ranging ence of 2.5 million to 4 million persons nent national and international leaders the American Issues Forum, which will . from five to eleven days in a novel inter­ will, it is expected, listen in on these dis­ will participate in all the discussion issue a topic for national discussion in national experience. cussions, called The Bicentennial Forums. seminars. each of the nine months from September, * * * Subject-matter will include: the rights 1975 to June, 1976. ef 4c:a1 '· ul'liel'l ere hele te "e ;,.l'!ere,.t ;,. MICHIGAN will host a statewide .,.,It§ fb~ deba ed by- he e young -- individuals and tram which the state gets people include: the work ethic, freedom traveling exhibit showing the develop­ its operating authority; the compact be­ ment of national symbols such as the and order; the impact of urbanization; tween the people and their government, free enterprise and the rights of labor; eagle, the flag, Columbia, etc., and their which the people may at any time alter; Junior Committees use in everyday household items. The ex­ foreign policy; and the roles of home, and the control of violence, which is school and church in molding society. hibit opened at the Detroit Historical easily as important today as it was in the Three and a half million students Museum and will run there until July 4, days of the early colonists. have now become aware of the U.S. "It is especially important that our 1975. Discussions will include live speaking Postal Service's Junior Committees young people take an active part in this of Correspondence program. national self-examination," Dr. Huseman * * * engagements, taped programs on New England and national radio, and a book Teachers and principals who wish said, "because they will be the leaders PEOPLE in central Florida are search­ or books to be published by Houghton to have the Postal Service's kit and builders of our society as we enter ing closets, attics, family albums and Mifflin Co. First programs, by Sam Bass which contains a Teacher's Guide, the third century of national existence." chests of drawers to find their contribu­ Warner, Boston University professor of membership cards, a poster and a Participants will conduct debates tions to a Bicentennial book of memo­ history, and Federal Judge Charles E. map of the U.S. to be used for before civic, fraternal and other rabilia. Entitled, "More than a Memory", Wyzanski, Jr., were aired February 13 tracking correspondence, should community groups. the book is being sponsored by the Orange and April 17. A third discussion, by write: Bicentennial Junior Com­ For further information write to Dr. County Historical Commission, 423 S. Hannah Arendt, professor at New York's mittees of Correspondence, Room Richard C. Huseman, Speech Com­ 5821, U.S. Postal Service, Wash­ Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32402. Tele­ ~ew School for Social Research, on the munications Association, Bicentennial phone, (305) 425-1776. topic "The Crisis of the Republic: Crimi­ ington, D.C. 20260. Youth Debates, 1625 Massachusetts * * * nality in Government" will occur May 20. avenue, N.W., 20036. ~DIO STATIONS WACTand WACT­ .. FM •.in Tuscaloosa, Alabama are taking pa.rt in the Bicentennial by featuring the program "On This Day", a series of 90- second vignettes, which offers a look into the lives of colonists who participated in the planning and execution of the Ameri­ can Revolution. The programs are fea­ tured three times daily, and are pre­ sented by Gulf States Paper Corporation. Contact: WACT, Program Director, P.O. American Revolution Third Class Drawer 126, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 . Bicentennial Administration Postage and * * * Washington, D.C. 20276 Fees Paid Official Business IN NEW LONDON, Connecticut, the INT 417 Penalty for private use $300 / Bicentennial Commission is putting their Bicentennial event calendar on placemats to be distributed to hotels and restaurants in the area. * * * WAVA NEWS RADIO in Arlington, Virginia has agreed to furnish "public service" air time to the Arlington Bicen­ tennial Commission, six days a week, Published monthly by the American Revolution through July 4, 1976, or 485 days, with Bicentennial Administration In the Interest of multiple broadcasts each day. The pro­ maintaining a high level of public awareness grams being used also include the "On of the American Bicentennial observance and oL This Day" series which the Bicentennial encouraging participation In the Blcentenn Commission purchased and WAVA is by Americans everywhere. A A95 ?, 29 133598?5ooe oo1 airing free. TH ·HIT fo40US J c R C Cl. TO THE PRES w S I TO~ DC 20500 THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

May 12, 1975

MEMORANDUM FOR JACK MARSH

FROM: PAUL A. THEIS

SUBJECT: Bicentennial

Re your memo on the Bicentennial, attached is a copy of a memo from Jack Casserly, who wrote the President's Old North Church speechand who has become our resident Bicentennial authority. I would subscribe to most of Jack's points ..• except the suggestion for the President to do two Bicenten­ nial speeches a month. I think one a month for the remainder of this year would be sufficient, increasing to two a month after the first of next year as the July 4th celebration nears; perhaps even three or four in the immediate month preceding that event, then reverting back to one or two a month for the remainder of 1976. •

Attachment Apl'll 21, 1915

MEMORANDUM FORt PAULTHEJS

FROM: JACK CASSERLY

SUBJECT a Bleenteaalal

llMUeve that the aim ol. the Prealdellt of. the Blca~aal&l aboald be the followial' to reatore the faltb of Amerlcaaa la thall' own ftlue•.

There obri... ly ahou.ld be attentloa 1lwa to Ll'beny ud Freedom • • • Co.ueat of tbe IO¥erM4 • • • Democncy aad Jutlce, etc.

How.Yer, 1 beUeve that more empllaala •hould be pvea to REASON. ADd HOPE. There are maay r•aona for taldq tbl• route a.Dd moat, If oot all ol tbam, appear clear. But jut once: FOBD -· A MAN OF REASON. (Aad ltyl.mpllcatloa FORD •• A MAN OF BALANCED JUDGMENT.)

Llheny, jutlce, etc., appear to me to be SECONDARY to the foUowla1 becaaae they are va_, faraway coaceple to many Amel'ie&ll•· WHAT IS NOT VAOUE?

1. Ov valaea aa lDdlvld•l• •• pnclaely what we 'Val•. 2. Ou pel'aoaalldeattty •• aad a• a people. 3. Ou purpoee •• a alqle peraoa • • aDd a• a NaUon.

Whea allla nld aad dou, America la a••t beeauae of peraona X, Y &adz.

The •••••• of tbla •I'Pl'••ll l• the recllecon•y of the ladlvldual aDd hl• worth.

Some of the abcwe la al'ped hy ltlcharcl WhalealD hl• book. "Taklq Sldea. " He offer• more ......

But mol'e W lt la f0118Clla the tblokfnl of J0\1DI people today. It 1• a NEW DOCTRDflC la tball' tldakl111 alt:hoqh lt la obrioualy quite old. Tlda thlnklal appeale to the YO\IDI •• for lta NEWNESS -· aDd to the old who wlU ••cosalH lt •• old. It Ia a tried aDd tl"'ae appi'Oacll. Not &A a,..oacb that one l• pee•IAI abcNt aDd may ft.Dd bknaelf or hereelf dlecardl.. lt after •om• uee. (Casserly}MF /PT May 12, 1975 SECOND DRAFT

PRESIDENT 1S REMARKS AT CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG, N.C., BICENTENNIAL COMMITTEE PICNIC LUNCHEON, MAY 20, 1975

It is an honor to be in Charlotte at the traditional celebration of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence by southern patriots 200

years ago today.

Spring is always an invigorating time of year, which I find particularly

well expressed in the Song of Solomon: 11 For lo the winter is past, the

rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the

singing of birds is come and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land. 11

I came to North Carolina today as a seed-sower -- to plant some thoughts and ideas here in the hope they grow and spread and enrich the spirit of this great land and its people.

Americans are now in a new spring -- indeed, we are starting a

I new era in our two-hundred-year history. It is time to plant the seeds and ideas of a new future. Ideas -- like seeds -- are small and fragile, but they are the precious beginning of new life and growth. -2-

We have just finished a decade of division in our country -- one that has nurtured doubt and fostered disillusionment among our people. We underwent a period of divisive debate and deep differences.

What we went through does not reflect the real America or the true history of our people. Our real vision has not been one limited to a light at the end of a tunnel -- but rather to an illuminated dream of a better, more just society and of a finer, more peaceful world for all mankind.

In this light, I believe we should evaluate our country -- our convictions and our character, our dreams and our doubts, our achievements and blemishes. In short, in the light of the entire American Experience.

As a people, we must avoid extremes in our thinking and excess in our actions. We must not embrace either recrimination or sel£-rightousness.

/" We must have the patience to weigh and suspend judgments. We must make sure we have fertile ground and favorable climate in An1erica today for the planting of ideas -- with the knowledge they require the nourishment of patience and reflection. -3-

At the moment, we are in the midst of relentless self-questioning.

The motives, the intentions and even the character of individuals involved in United Sates' policies over the past generation are being dissected to the core. No one denies that there are legitimate areas of inquiry. But we must make sure that the persistent raising of doubt does not, in fact, become our objective -- the end rather than the means, in other words,

to finding answers to questions. It is time to recognize that we need answers as well as questions. We must plant more seeds of solution in

America today.

Although no one in America asks that we speak with one voice, neither is it suggested that we argue endlessly about what is wrong with

America. Yet, there are some in our country who appear less interested in dialogue than their expression of difference .•• less concerned about the national good than self -attention •.. more interested in personal argument than answers to our public problems .•• and more interested - 4 - in reliving the past than making reasoned judgments about the future.

We must sow more seeds of reason and enlightment in America today.

Loyalty must leave room for dissent but dissent must also leave room for loyalty. Otherwise, needed discussion may degenerate into needless debate.

If we are to act as reasonable people, we have an obligation to speak to each other with moderation and civility. Strong words and harsh criticism lose force with their intensity because no American has a monopoly on right or reason. We must have a reverence for the accuracy of words and expressions.

Today in America. we must plant more seeds of moderation.

We believe in the ideals of America. We must remember, however, that our search for values is not a reach for absolutes. Absolutes are perfection. No reasonable person expects perfection in the world -- because this means we would stop growing, stop imp1·oving, stop seeking. - 5 -

It was internal conflict that destroyed ancient Greece and Rome --

and other civilizations. It may well be internal conflict -- not danger

from the outside --that could become the greatest threat to the American

future. We have now recognized that we cannot control the destiny of the

world. But we can to a very large extent control our own destiny. And

that is precisely what we in this country must set out to accomplish --

with reason and restraint, of course. Today in America, we must plant more of the seeds of restraint.

The strength of every nation1 s existence is within itself --living and planning as a people. We need the courage to be and act what we are -- a dynamic people of vision -- and follow a constructive and steady course

of action. No nation1 s course is charted by reaction. We must have the wisdom and self-confidence to choose what is good for our country and people -- to stand with free and friendly nations -- and reject the notion that we can be all things to all mankind. - 6 -

We must assimilate the lessons of the past generation and apply them to America's future. This must be done objectively --fairly -- in terms of our trials but also with a true perspective of the many noble sacrifices performed by the American people --without rewards in many instances or even thanks in others.

We are a wiser, more mature Nation today. We deserve to reap from our experiences new wisdom -- not a bitter harvest of hate and hostility.

As a people, we are acutely aware of the need for honesty and candor in our land. Excessive pledges and promises excessive secrecy and silence -- excessive rhetoric and excessive reaction to that rhetoric -- all of this marks a time of extreme and excess in our national conduct.

Today in America, we must plant the seeds of greater honesty and modesty.

The fate of responsible people everywhere rests in their own hands.

\Ve need no excuses for the past-- no excuses in the present-- and need offer no excuses about our future if we sow our seeds properly. - 7 -

We must replant the principles of our early pioneers -- the seeds

of individual responsibility and individual liberty -- which are the real

roots of America.

Democracy and the common good are not theoretical principles

about a formless and faceless nation of people. A democracy -- our

Republic, in short -- is characterized by person-to-person relationships -- family, church, school, workplace. Democracy was not and is not inherited by the American people. Its seeds were planted and nourished at the free choice of a free people wishing to live in a free society.

Open and intelligent discus sian are indispensible to the functioning of a true democracy. A mature people considers soberly and decides impartially. It seeks solutions through reason. Democracy --like liberty and freedom -- exists on a fragile balance and requires constant attention.

As there is a balance in nature, we also have a balance in government. That is why we have a built-in system of checks and balances in our Government. This system maintains the stability of our government - 8 -

and leads to reasoned, gradual change -- not to unreasonable and

unrestrained change. Today in America, we must plant more of the

seeds of stability.

For the wise, the world is a daily rebirth. And that is why prudent men and women will continue to sow in America the proud principles of our Declaration of Independence.

Truth has its roots in the long-ago past. It will outlast all the expedient philosophies of the present. We must continue to be a people of truth and trust.

Two centuries ago, we the people of the United States, made our essential choices. We called them inalienable rights. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness --their essential truth and dignity --represent the American philosophy. Americans have chosen to be governed by the

I by c~s ent of the people not/dissent. - 9 -

Our solutions vvill not be swift and simple. But our wisdom will show us what is right and our will can make it right.

Our horizons are limitless. There are no boundaries for a people who live and act responsibly. .America -- a much more mature Nation today -- has come of age in this past decade.

One hundred and ten years ago, our Nation ended a tragic civil war that embittered our people and left half of our country in ruins.

President Lincoln, in his Second Inaugural address, offered his countrymen words of restraint and wisdom and stability:

"With malice toward none, with charity toward all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the

workwearein •. rr

Lincoln's prophetic vision was not seen by many and, unfortunately, the effects of that divisive conflict persisted for decades. The world will not permit us the lu...'rnry of such division today. We have no other course - 10 - but to get on with the business of America so that we may -- in the enduring

expression of President Lincoln -- 11 achieve a just and lasting peace among

ourselves and with all nations. 11

# # # THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

May 15, 1975

Jack --

Jim Connors, Milt Friedman and I totally explored entire headache area. Agreed the President's appearance still well advised •.• Will include language in the speech that will divorce the President from the speech's historical dispute itself. Have suggested that Ron Nessen issue a brief preliminary statement addressing himself to the historical controversary that exists but of the President's great desire to go to North Carolina 11 to be among so many great people. 11

~· J Russ 1. , L. H ....u ...e_tL . Jl~,J~-- L~ . . 5-1 6l -D ·.DIS 1"'' ( / ·y\ / THE WHITE HOUSE •tJI' ·)} y WASHINGTON ( l J ~~~. ,rP J .1' 1 {A, e) . J ADDRESS l • fr ~S~ FREEDOM CELEBRATION DAY 1/ .... It TUESDAY~ MAY 20, 1975 v tJ 4- Q FREEDOM PARK -1.. • cP l> (..~tHARLOTTE (MECKLENBURG COUNTY) J D ~~ NORTH CAROLINA ~ . FROM: DR. THEODORE MARRS~t-"'

I. PURPOSE To commemorate the principles -- the imperishable verities -­ those things of the spirit, that were the foundation stones upon which our forefathers set about to build a new kind of nation. To celebrate Freedom Day -- on May 20th which is the 200th anniversary of the Meckenburg Declaration of Independence. II. BACKGROUND, PARTICIPANTS & PRESS PLAN A. Background: On May 1, 1775 Colonel Thomas Polk of Mecklenburg~ alarmed by rumors of parliamentary legislation ·for the suppression of the colonies, summoned delegates from each militia district of the county to meet in Charlotte on May 19 to determine' a course of action. The meeting was called to order in the courthouse. Abraham Alexander was elected Chairman and John McKnitt Alexander, Secretary. While the convention was in session they received the news of the skirmishes at Concord and Lexington. When the delegates met that night, they drew up resolutions for independence from the crown. The resolutions for independence were adopted at 2:00 AM on May 20th. At noon on May 20th the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence was read to the people of Charlotte by Thomas Polk, the commander of the military in the area and a recognized community leader. On May 31, the convention met again and drew up the Mecklenburg Resolves to provide th~ new government for the County. Captain James Jack \1/as commissioned to take both documents to the President of Congress and the North Carolina representatives to the Continental Congress. The Congress at this time was -2- still trying to make peace with the crown so therefore blocked Mecklenburg's Declaration,thirteen months later the Declaration of .Independence was signed.

The tvJo Neckl enburg documents were returned to North Caro 1 ina and kept at the house of John Alexander. Mr. Alexander.'s house burned down therefore all documentation of ~tlhat happened in the log courthouse in North Carolina were destroyed. The documents have been the center of controversy for many years. No noted historian of North Carolina will stand behind the Declaration.

The Charlotte ~teckl en burg Committee has commissioned 22 year old Jerry linker to take the historic ride from Charlotte to Philadelphia to deliver the Declaration and the Resolves as Captain James Jack did. The present day Captain Jack will take the same ride (as close as possible) of 200 years ago. The route north had one incident befall it. In Salisbury, North Carolina. Captain Jack was arrested after reading the Declaration in court. It has been arranged that Captain Jack be arrested again this year after he reads the Declaration in Sa 1 i sbury. Quite a few Presidents have visited the Charlotte area over the years. In 1954, President Eisenhower was there for the Freedom Day Celebration -- t~ecklenburg Declaration. Others include: George Washington - May 1791 - 2000 mile tour of the South Theodore Roosevelt - October 1905 - Tour of the South William Taft - May 1909 - Celebration of Mecklenburg Declaration Woodrow Wilson - May 1916 - Celebration of Mecklenburg Declaration Franklin Roosevelt - September 1936 -Green pasture rally trip Dwight Eisenhower - listed above Richard Nixon - October 1971 - Billy Graham Day On this year's program there is a gentleman by the name of Captain Dobbs. He is a descendent of the colonial Governor Dobbs of North Carolina. He and Nrs. Dobbs are guests of the -3- Charlotte - Mecklenburg Bicentennial Committee. They come from Northern Ireland. A good many of the early settlers we~e Ulstermen as ~tlell as thousands of other Scotch Irish. Billy Graham wi 11 be a\•tarded the "Nan of the South" a\'Jard earlier in the day. Other noted Southerners to receive this award have been Governor Luther Hodges of North Carolina and Bernard Baruch. Cornwallis called Charlotte the ''Hornet's Nest." The reason for this name was that supplies for the British were brought into Charleston. The direct line west was through Charlotte. The Charlotte patriots fought a guerilla type Harfare and ble~-1 up v;agons of arrununition etc. You will be presented the first in a series of silver commemorative coins of the r~ecklenburg Declaration. B. Participants: See attached list C. Press Plan: Full press coverage III. TALKING POINTS Speech is being provided by Editorial Division. -4- PARTICIPANTS

A. Grant Whitney~ Chairman, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Bicentennial Committee Dr. Joseph A. Gaston, Vice President, Johnson C. Smith University (Invocation) The Honorable John M. Belk, Mayor, City of Charlotte

~1rs. liz Hair, Chair·man, Mecklenburg County Commission Captain Richard Arthur Frederick Dobbs, County of Northern Ireland

The Honorable Jesse A. Helms, U.S. Senator~ North Carolina The Honorable James E. Holshouser, Jr. Governor of North Carolina

The Honorable James G. Martin, Congressman~ 9th District, North· Carol ina Dr. Billy Graham {Benediction) l THE mECKLEnBURG DECLARATIOn I OF InDEPEnDEnCE I 'THE ~IECKI.ENBURC DECLAJUTIO:-.: OF ISDEPESDE.!'i'CE

lst Resoh·ed that who~.,.er directly or indlre.;:Uy a ba-tted or in any wa:.·. form or manner count.enaru:ed the unchartered ;md d:sngerous Invasion of o:.lr righu. as claimed by Great Bt1tain, is an enemy to this count)·. to America, and to the inherent and lnalienotble rights of motn. • 2nd Resoh·ed that we the cltb:ens of 1\tecldenburg county, do hereby dissolve the -political bands whlch have conne<:ted us to the Mother col.lntnr. and hereby absolve ourselves from all allegiance to the British. Crown, and, adjure all pollt.ic:al conn~~~Ctlon or association. wlth that nation, wh.o ha,.·e wantonly trampled on our rights and libe:ties and lnhumAnt>lY she

J'ohn ~1:cKnltt Alexander Ephraim Brevard Abraham Alexander 'Thos. Polic Adam Alexander John Phifer Da ..·ld Reese Hezeldah Alexander Will Ke:mon Benjamin Patton .John Ford Robert ll"Win .Tohn D:s~·Idson Wllllam Cir:tham W.:~i;,:htsti!l Ave:-y John F~cr.:1!g~n Charles J\lcx:mcer James H.:H·r!s Henry Downs P.ich3rd H;J::-rls Ezra Alex;Jnder ~cil ~!orriso:t Ric:ha:d Ba:"ry

Ncm.c:J. torn off !,-,:.;,·..,;. R. H. cor:-~c-,· He:zt:':<:!.:lh J. B.lkh Z.H:chcus Wits.,~ .John Que;~ry ).!at:n~w ::'-~cC:u::-.::- '