Celebrate July Fourth at George Taylor's House

George Washington didn't sleep in the two-story Georgian mansion that is a landmark in Catasauqua, Lehigh County.

But George Taylor did.

Taylor, an Irish immigrant, was one of 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence. But Taylor didn't put his pen to the document until August 2 because he was not even appointed to the Continental Congress until July 20. He replaced a loyalist delegate who was kicked out of the esteemed assembly.

History buffs can celebrate July Fourth by attending a public reading of the Declaration at 10 a.m. Monday at the Taylor House, a National Historic Landmark located between Front and Lehigh Streets in Catasauqua. The house will be open for tours from 10 a.m. to noon.

Here are some quick facts about Taylor, a little-known figure in American history:

• Taylor was one of eight foreign-born men who signed the Declaration.
• He was the only signer who came to the U.S. as an indentured servant and who was an iron master.
• Taylor made his fortune at the Durham Iron Works on the Delaware River in Bucks County. After the death of his boss, he married the man's widow.
• He chose 331 acres in what was then Northampton County for his estate, featuring a mansion completed in 1768. Taylor's wife, Ann, died shortly after they moved in.
• Taylor later lived in Easton until his death in 1781 at age 65. He is buried in the city's St. John's Lutheran Church Cemetery.

A July 17 celebration will mark the 40th anniversary of the Taylor house being named a National Historic Landmark. Guests can enjoy a wine tasting and art show from 1 to 4 p.m. Cost is $20 in advance or $25 at the door to benefit the George Taylor House Preservation Society. Supporters can join the group on Facebook.