The Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, which announced the thirteen American colonies who were at war with Great Britain, saw themselves as thirteen newly independent sovereign states, and no longer a part of the Britain. Instead they formed a new nation-the United States of America. Some familiar names that signed the Declaration of Independence are Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Samuel Adams and John Hancock. These men along with the other 51 signers of the Declaration were not only an important part of American history but also they liked to consume alcohol beverages. In fact, many of the founding fathers were associated with the production & distribution of alcohol. Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence while seated at his usual table in the Indian Queen Tavern in Philadelphia while downing glass after glass of Madeira wine. Jefferson's home in Virginia had both a winery and brewery on site. He loved wine, hard cider, beer, whiskey and rum. Guests at his home always had a tipsy good time. Benjamin Franklin was fond of Madeira wine, but was not considered a drunkard compared to the rest of our Founding Fathers. He had an understanding of intoxication and the elements that went along with tying one on. He published the Drinker's Dictionary, which is 228 phrases to describe drunkenness. One of his famous quotes is "In wine there is wisdom, in beer there is Freedom, in water there is bacteria." John Hancock was known for his massive intake of alcohol, especially beer. It is rumored his signature on the Declaration was so large because he was a tad intoxicated when it was his turn to sign the document. He attended Harvard College and was a regular at the brewery. When tax was trying to be collected on alcohol, he would smuggle it into the country and sell it at discount prices. He gained popularity by his willingness to buy rounds for the house while speaking about his anti-British beliefs. It is believed his tirades led to the Boston Tea Party. John Adams may have been the biggest drinker out of all who signed the Declaration of Independence. He started his mornings with a large tankard of hard cider before breakfast and was fond of beer. Before bed every night, he would drink glasses of Madeira. He was also known to drink large quantities of alcohol at social gatherings. Samuel Adams worked as a brewer in his family owned a brewery before getting into politics. He was not a successful brewer, but we are all familiar with the beer that is named after him. So this year when you are enjoying beverages at your July 4th celebrations, just remember this, even though our Founding Fathers indulged in wine, beer & spirits, the laws and rules have changed a bit since 1776. Please be safe and responsible and have a Happy 4th of July!! Karissa Kurth Buffalo Lake
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