Orange County and Its Ties to the U.S. Constitution By Michelle Williams, Deputy Clerk / Senior Administrative Assistant Constitution Day commemorates the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, in Philadelphia. Out of the 70 delegates appointed by the original states (except Rhode Island) to the Constitutional Convention, 55 attended the Constitutional Convention sessions, but only 39 actually signed the Constitution. Individuals such as Richard Henry Lee, Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock did not accept their appointment or were not able to attend. View a biographical index of the Framers of the Constitution. James Madison, the fourth President of the United States and Orange County resident, was an integral part of the ratification of the Constitution by drafting The Federalist Papers, with Alexander Hamilton and John Fray. Because of his part, he was warmly referred to as the “ Father of the Constitution. ” The twelfth President, Zachary Taylor, was born in 1784 at the Montebello plantation, nestled just outside of Barboursville. Orange County citizens and employees are encouraged to observe this important day in our nation ’ s history by attending local events such as Constitution Day at James Madison ’ s Montpelier on Saturday, September 18, 2021. Activities such as house tours, garden and archaeology tours, a food truck, live music, an onsite visit from Mr. Madison, and a sale in the Museum Shop will take place. Visitors can also take a stroll through the James Madison Museum and explore the Madison Room exhibit that displays items belonging to the Madison and Taylor families.
For more information on Orange County ’ s rich history, visit visitorangevirginia.com, www.buyorangeva.com, or contact the Tourism Office at (540) 672 - 1653.
Zachary Taylor photo courtesy of whitehouse.gov
James Madison photo courtesy of whitehouse.gov
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