July 11, 2002
Before the television cameras went live at Mount Vernon Estate for ABC's Peter Jennings' live broadcast of the Fourth of July, thousands of celebrants converged on the estate to celebrate the nation's Independence Day.
Jennings anchored the special three-hour performance of music and around-the-country Fourth celebrations. "In Search of America, A July 4th Musical Celebration," originated at the Estate and moved to small towns and big cities showing parades, fireworks, carnivals and town meetings. Throughout the broadcast, ABC criss-crossed across America showcasing performances.
At the Estate, America's freedom was celebrated with music, food, demonstrations and a wreathlaying ceremony by the Sons of the American Revolution, the annual Red, White and Blue Concert by the National Concert Band of America, and an 18th-century style celebration launching wheat-treading season in the George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site's 16-sided barn.
One of the most recognized Revoluntionary War units in the country, the First Virginia Regiment of the Continental Line, assembled for inspectino on the Bowling Green. The inspection was followed by a ceremonial reading of The Declaration of Independence by the Commander of the Continental Line.