History Repeats Itself – Again

Celebrating milestone birthdays of the United States has long played a prominent role in Florida’s social history. Two hundred years ago, Tallahassee joined the nation in marking the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Historian Dr. Bertram Groene offers a vivid reconstruction of how that historic celebration unfolded in Florida’s young territorial capital.

The premier celebrations were the Fourth of July, Washington’s Birthday, and, on the eighth of January, the Battle of New Orleans. The first recorded Fourth of July observance in the tiny capital was organized by Judge David B. Macomb, who began collecting money for the proposed banquet two months in advance.

On the Fourth, the Marshal of the day, Robert Boyce, fired the national salute at daybreak. Later, a procession formed on the north side of Capitol Square. Governor William Pope DuVal and other officials paraded to the meeting house, where Judge Woodward read the Declaration of Independence, followed by the music of “Hail Columbia.”

The oration of the day was delivered by William Allison McRea, which, wrote Florida Intelligencer editor Ambrose Crane, was “impassioned and eloquent.” Afterward, the citizens proceeded to the Cascade for a barbecue.

The meal itself reflected true frontier abundance. For the 150 pioneers in attendance, the feast included one ox, one sheep, two shoats, three dozen fowl, ten hams, and a generous spread of fish and vegetables, an unforgettable communal celebration in territorial Tallahassee. (Quoted from Ante-Bellum Tallahassee, p. 144.)*

Experience Florida’s Living History.

Explore more stories like this from Florida’s past by visiting TheaterwithaMission.com, where you can watch engaging videos that reconstruct the songs, dances, stories, conflicts, and performances of 1826.

You can also order your own copy of Social Life in Territorial Tallahassee, 1823–1845, available in both English and Spanish. Better yet, experience history firsthand at TWAM’s Time Travel into Florida 1776 Festival at Goodwood, May 29–31, 2026. Free tickets will be available for this immersive, family-friendly celebration of Revolutionary Florida.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, join Theater with a Mission in reconstructing—and savoring—this remarkable chapter of our shared history.