Home School Heartbeat Radio Program

Mike Smith:
This week, author Marilyn Boyer has been talking about her book, For You They Signed. Marilyn, would you wrap up this week by sharing about a favorite signer from this book?

Marilyn Boyer:
Sure. Mike, it’s so hard to choose—there’s so many fascinating stories—but one of my favorites is Caesar Rodney. He just lived a life of sacrifice. He was taught at home by his mom. His dad died when he was 17, at which time he, until he was in his late 20s, helped his mom raise his six younger brothers and sisters.

You know, there’s an account where his vote for independence was the one that broke the tie; it was the one that was needed. At the time, he was away from Congress, because he was a brigadier general. He had just returned home from an exhausting day when he got a message from Thomas Mackeon that his vote was needed to break the tie. Within ten minutes of receiving the message, he left—he didn’t even stop to change his clothes. He rode all night through a severe thunderstorm, stopping only to change horses. Just as President Hancock was about to call the assembly to order, they heard the sound of horse hooves, and in came Caesar Rodney, spattered with mud. When Delaware was called, he stood up and said, “I vote for independence,” and he sunk exhausted into his seat.

Mike:
Marilyn, that’s a fascinating account! These studies of the signers of the Declaration of Independence will be a great resource for many families listening. Thanks for joining us this week! And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.

If you’ve appreciated Marilyn Boyer’s discussion of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, we invite you to join us for her live webinar on this topic, next week on HSLDA’s @home e-vents!

Marilyn will be presenting this interactive e-vent Wednesday, July 8. Register for the live e-vent. The cost of this e-vent is $9.99. Marilyn’s presentation will be available to purchase and watch at our archive 2–3 days after the live e-vent. Space is limited—register today!