Booms, pops, rat-a-tat-tats and sparkling fountains fill noisy and colorful days and nights even though most cities and neighborhoods prohibit fireworks.

The Fourth of July holiday reminds me of many things. In 1984, I visited the National Archives, when I suddenly stopped. Encased and heavily guarded was the original Declaration of Independence. It was difficult to read; parched, discolored, and distorted by an impenetrable pane to protect it from attacks and UV lighting. Regardless, I already knew what it said.

In 1967, my class visited an exact replica of Independence Hall at Knott's Berry Farm. Inside, the signing of the Declaration of Independence was depicted in detail. Afterward, I bought a small parchment reproduction that I kept for many years. Public priorities changed; the park is fast amusement rides, noise and glaring lights. The Hall gets less attention and perhaps the document is forgotten.

Many years passed while I explored my family tree. Using a handful of names I traced a few generations using birth, marriage, death certificates and viewing census records on microfilm. On a visit to Washington, D.C., I viewed our illustrious Declaration of Independence. Next, I visited my grandparents and mentioned I was still doing our genealogy. My grandmother said women in our family could join the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR); a sophisticated status symbol in her youth, and asked me to verify our eligibility.

I used her memory, books and material from the Family History Libraries in Anaheim and Salt Lake City, and the Laguna Niguel National Archives. My research exceeded what I needed, revealing many ancestors ensuring our acceptance. Grandma was grateful for making her dream a reality. I joined the DAR, but sadly, grandma died within a year.

My search revealed colonists, including many of my ancestors, boldly risked their lives, families, homes and farms. I was moved by battles, injuries and deaths found in military and personal documents. Our Declaration of Independence affirmed that being England’s subjects now ceased. We demanded equality, personal rights and self-government in a document outlined by a Congress representing the People, their fellow citizens. This instrument shaped our nation’s history and is a model for countries worldwide.

Fourth of July fireworks, days off work and barbecues are meaningless to me. Upon seeing the Stars and Stripes, hearing our National Anthem, or pondering the costly sacrifices and dedication of these patriots and their families throughout the past as well those of today, I become very emotional. The true Fourth of July celebration is their legacy for all generations. 

LC Westmore is an Auburn resident.

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