America 250: The Forgotten Founders
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Salem Methodist Church is taking time to look back at the people, ideas and moments that helped shape our nation.
During the second session of Salem’s Celebrating 250 Years of American Freedom series, Ben Pauley focused on some of the founding fathers and mothers whose stories are often overshadowed by names like Washington, Jefferson and Franklin. His goal was to explore the overlooked patriots, surprising stories, folklore and contradictions that make the founding era much more complicated — and much more interesting.
Among those highlighted was Gouverneur Morris, who played a major role in drafting the Constitution and gave us the words “We the People.” Ben also discussed George Mason, who refused to sign the Constitution in part because it lacked the protections that would eventually become the Bill of Rights.
The session also brought attention to women such as Phillis Wheatley, whose poetry challenged assumptions about race and intellect in colonial America, and Abigail Adams, whose letters and political insight made her an influential voice despite never holding public office.
Faith was woven throughout many of these stories as well. John Witherspoon, a Presbyterian minister and signer of the Declaration of Independence, influenced generations of American leaders through both his faith and his work as an educator.
At the end of the session, attendees voted for the figures whose stories stood out most. Abigail Adams came out on top with 17 votes, followed by John Witherspoon with 12.
More than anything, the morning was a reminder that American history is not simply the story of a few famous names. It is filled with people whose decisions, convictions, successes and failures continue to influence the country we know today.
As Pastor Krista shared in the closing prayer, learning these stories helps us better understand “who we are and where we’ve come from” and recognize people whose impact we may never have known.
Watch Ben Pauley’s full presentation above.
Salem’s America 250 series concludes September 12 with the third and final session. Learn more about the series and upcoming gathering here:
