The month of July is a very special month. July has many reasons to celebrate. Though not widely known, it was on July 2nd, not July 4th that The Continental Congress passed the resolution declaring the independence from the colonies. We celebrate Independence Day on July 4th. Are you a celebrator? Having lived several years in the Fourth of July city in Seward, Nebraska, Independence Day has very special memories for me. Singing the Star Spangled Banner has inspired millions and moved many to tears. It has symbolized with the flag, what it really does mean to be a loyal American.

Are you aware that it was here in the state of South Dakota, that the Star Spangled Banner received the first impetus, which eventually led to its adoption as our national anthem? I was very impressed when I first learned about the history of this stirring song. It all happened in 1892, when Colonel Caleb H Carlton assumed command of the eighth US Cavalry Regiment at Fort Meade, near Sturgis. Carlton writes in his memoirs that he and his wife discussed the fact that the United States had no official song. Mrs. Carlton suggested they do something about it.

It was at Fort Meade that Colonel Carlton ordered his Calvary band to play "The Star Spangled Banner" at all parades and formations. He further states that all persons, including civilians, should rise respectfully and all men, not under arms would remove their hats. Colonel Carlton promoted the idea beyond his own South Dakota base, and consequently the practice was adopted by other commanders. There was something patriotically contagious about the show of respect for the song and the flag and honored. It was a one sentence bill that passed on March 3rd, 1931 and signed by President Hoover that designated the Star Spangled Banner as the National Anthem of the United States of America. The patriotic custom began in the Black Hills, and so it gives our national anthem its roots in South Dakota.

Patriotic Thoughts: Francis Scott Key, a lawyer, wrote the lyrics for our national anthem during the morning of September 14th, 1814. "At the dawn's early light," he saw the American flag fly, and in a burst of patriotic fervor, he hurriedly penned the immortal words. We thank the "Father" of our national anthem. With renewed patriotism, let's celebrate Independence Day! Happy Independence Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record June 25th, 1998.

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Till next time,

Trina