America's greatest legacy to the world, the guarantee of religious freedom for every citizen, was inspired by the vision of Thomas Jefferson, George Mason and James Madison, and first established by law in Richmond, Virginia, in 1786. For the first time in world history, freedom of religion was guaranteed by law.
The text of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom is painted on a wall in the historic area of Richmond called Shockoe Slip. The lot at Cary and 14th was the site of the state Capitol in 1786, when the legislature approved the law.
The flag in the far background is at half staff in recognition of the death of Sen. Robert Byrd of West Virginia who died at age 92 several days ago.
Thanks for posting this wall sign -- I did not know that Virginia had established the Freedom of Religion long before the Bill of Rights.
Richmond is certainly rich in history.
Allison, I just wanted to thank you for the very generously worded comment you left me today. I got so many nice comments today & I feel badly I can't connect back with everyone. (Perhaps you gave me more credit than I'm due!) You always make such heartfelt comments, I couldn't go past without thanking you.
Richmond is certainly rich in history.