314F Spring 2026 The Men Behind the Quills: Lesser-Known Signers with Big Stories

314F  The Men Behind the Quills: Lesser-Known Signers with Big Stories
One session
Instructor: Lynn O’Connell
Wednesday, 9:40—11:05, Apr. 22
We all recognize names like Jefferson, Adams, and Franklin when we think of the Declaration of Independence—but they were only three of the 56 men who signed the historic document. Who were the others? What motivated them to risk everything for an uncertain future? And what happened to them after they put their names to a piece of paper that branded them as traitors to the British Crown? This presentation takes a closer look at “The Men Behind the Quills”—the lesser-known signers of the Declaration whose fascinating and often surprising stories deserve to be remembered. You’ll meet a signer who was killed in a duel less than a year after signing; another who urged George Washington to fire cannons at his own home during the Siege of Yorktown; and one who was captured, imprisoned, and tortured by the British. Some were clergymen, others merchants or self-taught lawyers, but all shared a willingness to sacrifice life, fortune, and sacred honor for the cause of American independence.
Lynn O’Connell is a longtime educator and tour guide/director. As a D.C. tour guide, she focuses on customized tours such as D.C. women, food, and museums. She also serves as a Smithsonian Associates’ study leader. Lynn teaches in continuing education programs, including NOVA and FCPS.