December 7, 2009

Markell Celebrates Delaware History

DOVER – Gov. Jack Markell issued the following proclamation today in observance of Delaware Day:

Whereas, our form of government was established by a Federal Constitution, adopted in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787, and subsequently submitted to the 13 former colonies for individual action; and

Whereas, 222 years ago, on December 7, 1787, a special convention of 10 delegates representing Delaware’s three counties met in Dover and, by its unanimous action in adopting the new Federal Constitution, became the First State in the Union; and

Whereas, this was an event of great significance, not only for Delaware, but for the nation as well; and

Whereas, in the intervening years, the United States Constitution has served as a beacon for the hopeless and as an inspiration to all who seek freedom and justice; and

Whereas, in 1933, more than 6,000 Delawareans signed petitions requesting the formal establishment of the seventh day of December as Delaware Day; and

Whereas, we set aside this one day annually to reflect on the meaning of the United States Constitution and rededicate ourselves to its preservation; and

Whereas, it is fitting that all Delawareans, on this day, recall their proud heritage and blessings of citizenship in this country and state.

Now, therefore, We, Jack Markell, Governor, and Matthew Denn, Lieutenant Governor, do hereby declare December 7, 2009 as Delaware Day in the First State and request that the flags of Delaware and the United States be properly displayed from all public buildings.