North Carolina has a history of patriots who were not afraid to stand up and speak out against tyranny. It's no secret that they faced risk by doing so, but their actions contributed to the grassroots movement that lead to independence from the King of England. Here are two examples of random patriotic actions that made history.
Edenton Tea Party:
On October 25, 1774, 51 women in Edenton resolved to stop buying English imports in support of the actions and resolutions of the First Provincial Congress. Penelope Barker helped organize a letter to send to England with grievances about high taxes that were negatively affecting her community. The women of Edenton signed and sent the resolution to England. It happened to be one of the first public political actions by women in America.
The women in Edenton who wrote and sent the letter to England in defiance of the King's high taxes, had no idea they would inspire others to create a new nation.
Captain Allen:
Captain Allen served almost continuously from 1775 to 1781, being dispatched to major battles in the Carolinas such as Moore's Creek Bridge, Charleston, Kings Mountain, and Guilford Courthouse. After the Loyalists Defeat at Moore's Creek Bridge on February 12, 1776, Allen under the command of Captain Walton thought they would be in charge of the prisoners on the way to Hillsborough but two companies of mounted troops under Captains Robert Mebane and Abraham Shephard ended up doing it. In other battles, his term had expired, and in another he was too late to be in the battle. Early in 1778, Benjamin Cleveland was promoted to lieutenant colonel; Allen succeeded him and continued as captain of the company until the close of the war. Even though he did not get the chance to serve in battles like he preferred, Allen became the first sheriff of the newly formed Wilkes County in 1778, holding the position until 1790, except for two years. In 1788, he was elected to the Hillsborough convention to vote on the proposed federal Constitution. Although politics was not his preferred field, Allen served one term in the House of Commons in 1793.
Allen served when he was called each time, and he showed up with all of his skills and his passion ready to be used where needed. He did not get to do what he originally thought he would do which is to have a list of battles he could fight against the Loyalists.
So what is the takeaway here?
There are some North Carolina Convention of States volunteers who have been in the fight for to get the resolution passed for over 9 years. At times, it can seem like what was done in the past was lost or is insignificant. Or even forgotten. The truth is that having a shared history and common vision is something that is reminiscent of past patriots who worked together to save the colonies from being overtaken by a tyrannical government. The saying that nothing worth doing is easy or fast rings true with the NC journey. COS is gaining a reputation in North Carolina for their love of country, freedom and liberty. Many small steps and some larger ones move us forward toward victory, just like Penelope Barker and Captain Allen who contributed to what would become a future Constitutional Republic.
Fast forward to December 2024.
Envision in your mind how the winning day happens:
On a cold day, the North Carolina COS team makes it way into the legislative building and is seated in the gallery. The session begins. After a couple of business items, the announcement is made to hear HJR 235, the Convention of States Resolution. It feels like time is standing still. The team is thinking of the many petition tables, breakfasts, phone calls, letters, meetings with legislators, and rallies at the capitol. The second reading is done. Hearts are beating faster as the third reading is finished. The suspense is so great waiting for the order to be made to cast the votes. Then it is called! The magnificent moment seemingly unattainable, that has been cast into some glorious moment in the future, is happening in the present! Eyes are glued to the scoreboard, and some even hold their breath. The board lights up and North Carolina becomes the 20th state! The COS team is nearly bursting at the seams, but even though they are overtaken by emotion, still reverently remain quiet until it is time to go outside of the chamber.
It could be said that actions of Penelope Barker and Captain Allen are one of the reasons this day is happening. Their resolve instilled the spirit of revolution and resistance to tyranny in our blood. The culmination of hard work and dedication is worthy of a celebration!
Grassroots volunteers have many skills and talents that can be used to save this country. Start planning for the next glorious moment when 34 states have passed the resolution!
1. Volunteer your time. Go to the Take Action tab on the Convention of States website
2. Engage with your local legislators right now. Find your state representatives
