The Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 gave birth to a nation, an event solemnized in an iconic hand-inscribed document of magnificent penmanship that still inspires lovers of liberty worldwide. Wrightstown resident, penman and historian Robert Hurford will demonstrate the craft of exquisite penmanship as practiced in the 18th and 19th centuries in a one-day show at the Wrightstown Octagonal School on Sunday, July 19.
Bob will guide visitors through the teaching of penmanship in academies like the Octagonal School, and how it evolved into a uniquely American style and artform. He will also demonstrate Spencerian-style ornamental penmanship and offhand flourishing.
Also taking place July 19 at the Octagonal School, Wrightstown Township will celebrate our nation's 250th by displaying and reading a full-size facsimile of the Declaration of Independence. Also on display will be a colored map of properties and landholders in Wrightstown Township in 1776.
Local farmers and residents built and operated the Wrightstown Octagonal School as a private subscription academy from 1802 to 1850. Although not a sectarian religious school, many of its trustees, teachers and sponsors were members of the Wrightstown Meeting of the Society of Friends (Quakers). It closed in 1850 as public schools were established in Wrightstown and throughout Pennsylvania.
The Wrightstown Octagonal School is a historical museum owned by Wrightstown Township and operated by its Historical Commission. The school is located at 2091 Second Street Pike, at the intersection with Swamp Road. Parking is accessed via the Swamp Road entrance. For more information, contact Mary Lee Johnson at 215-870-2013 or history@wrightstownpa.org.
