T5615-Crops, Character—and Courage - William Floyd

“Crops, Character—and Courage.”
At 41 years old, William Floyd of Long Island was already a seasoned farmer, family man, and militia leader when he added his name to the Declaration of Independence. Orphaned young and entrusted with his family’s land, Floyd forged strength through toil—and brought that grit into the Continental Congress. He signed the Declaration knowing the risk. One anxious delegate joked that Floyd would be hanged “half an hour after we do.” Floyd didn’t flinch. Soon after, British troops invaded Long Island. His wife and children fled under threat of fire and sword, and their home was occupied for years. But Floyd didn’t retreat. He took command in the New York militia, rose to the rank of Major General, and fought to reclaim what tyranny had taken. His family—and his country—rebuilt from the ashes. Floyd’s story is proof that liberty demands more than words. It demands sacrifice—and the courage to make it.

Categories: American History