Sacred Honor Study Guide, Colony 1: New Hampshire

New Hampshire was different from its neighbors. It was not founded for religious reasons. It was a working colony of timber, fish, and trade, and by 1776 it had already been governing itself for months. When the vote came, New Hampshire did not need convincing. It had been ready for a long time.

This guide introduces New Hampshire's three signers and the colony that produced them. Josiah Bartlett cast the first vote for independence and saw his home burned for it. William Whipple, a former ship captain, marched to war and brought an enslaved man named Prince Whipple with him, a relationship that raises the questions this guide does not flinch from. Matthew Thornton arrived in Congress months after the signing and added his name anyway, the man who came late and signed regardless.

The Hero of Your Story moment belongs to Matthew Thornton, proof that it is never too late to put your name on the right side.

INSIDE THIS GUIDE:

• The New Hampshire Colony Introduction
• Profiles of Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, and Matthew Thornton
• A Primary Source Encounter: William Whipple's own words on virtue and freedom
• Explorer Questions (grades four through six) and Challenger Questions (grades seven through twelve)
• Vocabulary Builder, Discussion Questions, and a hands-on Activity
• A Faith Connection drawn from the colony's story
• The Hero of Your Story moment and a student reflection page

Honest history, devotional depth, and real conversation for your family or classroom. A branded navy-and-gold PDF in the Sacred Honor series.

Part of the 250th Anniversary Founders Reference System. Save by purchasing the complete thirteen-colony set.