DOI Signer George Wythe Grave Marking

The President of the Richmond SAR, Philip Barnard, was looking for a way to honor the 250th Anniversary
of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th of this year. He has created many historical events in the
central Virginia area over the years honoring patriots of the Revolutionary War, including a grave marking
and reenactment of the Second Virginia Convention at St. John’s Church in Richmond just last year. His
involvement with St. John’s Church led him to become familiar with the grave of George Wythe in their
graveyard, and that Wythe was the only signer of the Declaration of Independence buried in Richmond.
Barnard felt there needed to be more than just a grave marking to honor Wythe. To bring further attention
to his resting place, it would be a fitting tribute to have a 250th Anniversary reading of the Declaration at
his grave. Such an event would attract attention from many different historical societies. For Barnard, one
such organization would naturally be the prestigious Order of the Founders and Patriots of America, where
he is also Governor of the Virginia Society. They also needed a venue in which to honor the 250th
Anniversary of our Independence. Hence, the idea for inviting them to co-host this ceremony with the
Richmond SAR. He then decided to expand the program to include a select group of historical societies.