To the Ingenious Artificer, On this 4th of July, 1776, the United Colonies are declared Free and Independent States. To mark the birth of the United States of America, His Excellency General George Washington decrees a historic monument be raised. He requests you design and construct this structure. It must stand the test of time, symbolize our sacred unity, and body forth our newborn freedom. This noble work shall forever be named Independence. Fail not your country.