September 1775 – Independence in the Making

As we embark on the opening of Five Rivers Bank, it is difficult to do so without thinking of the many opportunities that are available to all of us, in our country. A great example of this is the fact that our Bank was founded by naturalized American citizens, the majority of which are first generation, who immigrated to this country because of the opportunities which America has to offer.

As we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we want to celebrate each month with a short column as to the events that took place during the same time period 250 years ago. Many people think we became independent of Great Britain on July 4, 1776, when in fact, our independence was formally gained in 1783. Also, the war for independence did not start on July 4, 1776. It was actually the result of years of discontent with British rule going back to the mid-1750s.

A very brief chronology of the events before September of 1775 is as follows:

The Road to Revolution

Before September 1775, tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain had already been building for years. A series of critical events set the stage for open conflict:

• March 5, 1770: The Boston Massacre, in which British soldiers fired into a crowd, killing five colonists.
  
• December 16, 1773: The Boston Tea Party, a bold protest against taxation without representation.
  
• September 5 – October 26, 1774: The First Continental Congress met, bringing colonies together to coordinate resistance.
  
• April 18, 1775: Paul Revere rode to Lexington and William Dawes rode to Concord to warn that the British were coming.
  
• April 19, 1775: The Battle of Lexington and Concord took place, marking the beginning of the Revolutionary War.
  

These events reflected the growing discontent with British rule and the determination of ordinary people to fight for a better future.

A Nation on the Brink: September 1775

This month, 250 years ago, our young colonies were taking bold steps toward self-determination.

• September 1, 1775: The Olive Branch Petition, a final plea for peace with Great Britain, was presented to King George III. The King refused even to read it, shutting the door on reconciliation.
  
• September 25, 1775: American forces launched a poorly planned attack on Montreal. The effort failed, and Colonel Ethan Allen was captured by the British.
  
• Throughout September 1775: The Continental Congress pressed on, acting as a national government by coordinating resistance, organizing diplomacy, and laying the groundwork for a new nation.
  

These moments remind us that progress rarely comes without challenge. Independence was not won overnight. It was the result of ordinary people uniting, persevering, and believing that their future could be brighter.

What It Means for Us Today

At Five Rivers Bank, we see the same resilience, unity, and hope that defined America’s path to independence reflected in our own story.

Built from the ground up
Just as America’s founders built a nation out of determination and shared purpose, our bank was founded by entrepreneurs and small business owners who knew the value of personal connection. After years of planning, investment, and laying regulatory groundwork, we created a purpose-driven bank designed to serve the needs of our community first.

As we honor America’s journey toward independence 250 years ago, we are reminded that lasting progress is always rooted in community, built with perseverance, and guided by shared values. That is the future we are committed to building with you.