On this day, 250 years ago, Caesar Rodney rode on horseback overnight from Delaware to Philadelphia in a terrible thunderstorm to cast a vote that would forever change the course of human events.When people think of legendary horseback rides during the American Revolutionary period, it’s safe to assume that most people will think of Paul Revere. While his journey is unquestionably iconic, Rodney’s heroic ride for independence is just as important and arguably even more so. When the people of the 13 colonies needed him most, Rodney rode to the occasion — literally.
In honor of the 250th anniversary of Caesar Rodney’s ride from Delaware to Philadelphia’s Independence Hall on July 2, 1776, casting a tie-breaking vote on behalf of the state of Delaware in favor of the resolution for independence, here is @ChrisCoons speaking at a reenactment… pic.twitter.com/StMPbCpSXM— Christopher Tremoglie (@chriswtremo) July 2, 2026
Delaware delegates Thomas McKean and George Reed were in Philadelphia, divided over whether to vote for the state’s independence from the British Empire. Rodney, the third Delaware delegate, was in his home state when he received word that his vote was needed, as the fate of the colonies hung in the balance. Ever the patriot, being a veteran of the French and Indian War and the American Revolution, Rodney began his heroic “dark knight” ride.Ciro Poppiti as Caesar Rodney riding through the streets of Philadelphia. (Courtesy of Ciro Poppiti)
