One of the most illustrious signers as far as their personal influence was Oliver Wolcott. The Wolcott family had an impressive pedigree in the old world as well as the new. He descended from a distinguished line of political leaders, attorneys, landholders, judges, and medical doctors.
Oliver Wolcott attended Yale University, graduating in 1747, and was at the top of his class. Following graduation, he received a Captain’s commission from Governor George Clinton of New York to raise a voluntary militia for engagement in the French and Indian War. After the war, his militia was disbanded, and he returned to Connecticut to study medicine with his Uncle, intending to practice in Goshen. His father owned land in Litchfield, and Oliver moved there instead and entered into law. He was also elected sheriff of Litchfield County from 1751-1771. He represented Litchfield in the upper and lower house of the colonial and state legislatures. Later, he served as Judge of the Probate Court and judge of the County Courts.
Oliver remained active in the militia during the period leading up to and including the Revolutionary War, devoting portions of the year to his military career. He rose in ranks to attain the position of major general.
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One event that really exemplified his devotion to the war was on July 9, 1776. Wolcott was in New York City while General George Washington was reading the Declaration of Independence to his troops. A demonstration from the soldiers and patriots erupted, and they toppled and seized the 4,000-pound statue of King George III. The statue was erected in Bowling Green in 1770. It was lead-coated with a fine layer of gold leaf.
The crowd, in anger, beheaded the statue, cut off its nose, and placed the decapitated head outside of a local tavern. It is said they sent it back to England in defiance. Wolcott ordered that the dismembered pieces of the statue be shipped back to Connecticut, and in the Orchard behind his own home, his family (wife and kids) and friends melted down the statue to make some 42,088 bullets for the war effort.
Wolcott eventually became Governor of Connecticut, and his family enjoyed a long lineage of success in various political offices in the State.
He and his wife, Laura, were devout Christians who served their community in many ways. Their home was one of gracious hospitality, and they were key leaders and patriots in the American cause of Liberty.
Some quotes from Oliver Wolcott in regards to his faith:
“Through various scenes of life, God has sustained me. May He ever be my unfailing friend; may His love cherish my soul; may my heart with gratitude, acknowledge
His goodness. (I Chronicles 16:34).
“May by desires be to Him and to the remembrance of His name…May we then turn our eyes to the bright objects above (Colossians 3:2), and may God give us strength to travel the upward road.
“May the divine Redeemer conduct us to that seat of bliss which He Himself has prepared.”
“It is evident that this land is under the protection of the Almighty, and that we shall be saved not by our wisdom nor our might (Zechariah 4:6), but by the Lord of
Host who is wonderful in counsel and Almighty in all His operations.” (Isaiah 9:6)
Until next time…