Announcement to be Made in Dahlonega on the 4th

Article by Dylan Henschen / The Nugget
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Jim Guy longs to witness the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in July 1776. This longing inspired Guy to create a unique 4th of July tradition in Dahlonega’s Public Square.

Reviving History

The tradition starts at 2:35 pm on the 4th of July. Guy, donned in custom-made colonial attire, steps onto the second story of the Dahlonega Gold Museum. With a couple of enthusiastic “Hear Ye’s”, he gathers the crowd for a historical reenactment of the reading of the Declaration of Independence.

This idea stemmed from an interesting piece of information. “The Declaration was meant to be performed,” Guy mentions. This nugget of information led him to perform a theatrical rendition of this historic script. “I wanted to give people a taste of what it must have felt like back then,” he further adds. He incorporates this novel addition to Dahlonega’s 4th of July festivities for the second consecutive year.

Reflecting on last year’s reading, he remembers an audience of “50-100 people.” He anticipates a larger crowd this year, similar to the ‘Christmas in the Square’ event.

The History Enthusiast

Although only in its second year, Guy is no newcomer to donning colonial outfits. Also an American Government teacher at Dawson County Junior High, his fondness for historical reenactments roots back to a pact he made with his students.

Guy remembers grappling with ways to get students engrossed in the Constitution week. He finally made a deal – students attentive from Monday through Thursday would be awarded with Guy dressed as George Washington on Friday. Guy fulfilled his promise, and this led to a notable uptick in student engagement towards learning about American history.

Guy aims at recreating this zeal for learning through his historical enactment. His ultimate goal is to inspire people to learn more about their country.

Relevant Reminders

Apart from the desire to spur learning, Guy acknowledges the importance of renewing understanding of the Declaration, particularly in the current social context. “The liberties talked about in there are not permanent. Many countries don’t have them,” he observes. He warns that apathy from those in authority can lead to the erosion of these liberties.

In the light of the prevailing political tension, he emphasizes the importance of education about the country’s foundation. “Our American Democratic Republic experiment is one large pay-it-forward experiment,” he asserts. He hopes that the citizens realize their role in ensuring their descendants inherit the same freedoms as them.

He expresses his exhilaration at playing a role in rejuvenating patriotic spirit. “I get to stimulate excitement about living in a very special place,” he muses.

Guy’s performance is scheduled swiftly post the 4th of July Parade, at 2:35 p.m., welcoming all to join.