During the Revolutionary War period, this place – this community – was the scene of several events of huge significance.  Today’s generation would label Halifax a “happening place.”  The North Carolina 4^th Provincial Congress met here in the spring of 1776.  Two hundred twenty nine years ago on this day, that provincial congress adopted the “Halifax Resolves.”  It was the first written document by an entire colony to publicly proclaim that it become an independent state and thus be liberated from England’s colony control.  Later that same year, the 5^th Provincial Congress met here.  That group of delegates drafted and approved North Carolina’s first state constitution and appointed Richard Caswell as the first governor.

During the Revolutionary War, this place was the site where many Continental Line and militia units bivouacked and trained in preparation for future action in both the Northern and Southern Campaigns.  Though no land battles were fought here, British General Charles Cornwallis briefly occupied Halifax in 1781 on the northward march of his army and eventual surrender to American General George Washington at Yorktown, Virginia.

All that is left of the original Halifax is just what you can see.  But over two hundred thirty years ago this community was a “happening place.”  When you leave this place today, leave it with one thought in mind.  It was here – RIGHT HERE – where a group of North Carolina citizens stood up and became the very first to declare their complete and unconditional break from Britain’s dominance and control.  Think how bold this action must have been and how brave they were to sign the Halifax Resolves two hundred twenty-nine years ago right here in this spot of North Carolina.  Thank you.

Joe Harris/President/NCSSAR             

4/12/2005

Halifax, NC