McCormick to Host Bells Across America Event on September 17
McCormick – This upcoming Tuesday, September 17, marks a special occasion for communities across the United States. **Bells Across America** will be commemorating the 237th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. In McCormick, the observance will be hosted by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) from Greenwood and McCormick counties at the McCormick Methodist Church, located at 200 E. Gold St.
The event will kick off at 3 p.m. with light refreshments for attendees. This offers a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and engage in meaningful conversations. By 3:30 p.m., a formal program will begin, creating an educational and reflective atmosphere. The highlight of the event, of course, will be the ringing of the bells at 4 p.m., which will coincide with similar observances nationwide.
The **Bells Across America** observance is a heartwarming tradition aimed at celebrating the signing of the U.S. Constitution, a document that profoundly impacts the nation to this very day. The **52 words of the Preamble** are lasting testaments to the principles and values embraced by the founding fathers. The bells not only symbolize the framing of the Constitution but also serve as a reminder of the unity and liberty it guarantees.
A Little History
**Constitution Week**, which the event will kick off, was first proposed in 1955 by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution as a time to honor the Constitution. Congress officially adopted the observance, and it was signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on August 2, 1956. Since then, Constitution Week has been celebrated from September 17 to September 23 across the nation, in schools, colleges, and universities.
The DAR continues to play a significant role in promoting awareness and education about the Constitution through various events and programs. Their commitment is evident in activities like this one, which bring people together to learn and reflect on the document that continues to shape American governance and freedoms.
Public Participation
This year’s observance at McCormick Methodist Church is notable for its inclusivity. The event is free and open to the public, making it a perfect occasion for families, students, and history enthusiasts to participate. Constitution Week aims to foster a deeper understanding of the Constitution by highlighting the vision and dedication of its framers.
Participating chapters from the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution include Star Fort, Mt. Ariel, Issaqueena in Greenwood, and Long Cane in McCormick. Their collaborative efforts ensure a well-organized and educational experience for all attendees.
Weather Alert!
Before heading to the event, it’s worth noting the weather forecast. The day is expected to be generally **cloudy** with the possibility of **stray showers or thunderstorms**. The high temperature will be around **78°F**, with northeast winds blowing at **10 to 15 mph**. Later in the evening, expect **overcast skies** and temperatures dropping to **68°F**, with winds calming down to **5 to 10 mph**. Considering the weather predictions, carrying an umbrella might not be a bad idea.
So mark your calendars for September 17 and join the community for an enriching afternoon filled with history, education, and unity. Come for the program, stay for the bells, and leave with a renewed appreciation for the U.S. Constitution.