Merokeans reconnect to America’s beginning

Annual reading of the Declaration of Independence held on July 4

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The annual July 4 tradition in Merrick is still going strong. On the patriotic holiday, residents gathered at the gazebo near the train station to recite the document that kicked-off America’s democracy: the Declaration of Independence.

In a celebration of both independent freedoms and the friendships shared in Merrick, the community-rooted event saw residents from every corner of the town. The sun was beating down while the readers stood in a circle in the cool shade and took turns reading excerpts.

The reading is hosted annually by Historical Society of the Merricks president Lawrence Garfinkel and his wife, Adrienne. It’s a longstanding tradition for the area, having been recited every year since 1975.

The society, however, needs more community support, Garfinkel said. Residents are welcome to attend the society’s reorganization meeting in September, for which the date is yet to be determined. Follow the Merrick Herald for updates on the meeting.