Compatriots from across North and South Carolina gathered in the rain in Uptown Charlotte to celebrate the 241st annual commemoration of the Signing of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence.

“It was unfortunate that the weather attempted to ruin the large crowds from gathering to observe the annual event,” said Jay Joyce, president of the Mecklenburg Chapter. “But we held the ceremony anyway, indoors, then proceeded outdoors to unveil the new NC Highway Marker and the annual trek to Settlers’ Cemetery to honor COL Thomas Polk.”