Jefferson Cup 2010

Fri, Aug 6, 2010

I would like to take a moment to tell you a story about one of the most influential men credited with our historic founding as a Nation of States, Thomas Jefferson. As you have probably observed, the RLC quotes Thomas Jefferson quite extensively as a source for many of our stances and has become an identifying figure for our movement of fellow Liberty loving compatriots.

Thomas Jefferson had a very close friend and mentor, George Wythe, whom he often referred to as a “Second Father”. During a time when many men only studied law for a year, Jefferson, under Wythe as his instructor studied law, philosophy and political science for more than five years. Wythe became a highly influential member of the Continental Congress in 1775, voting in favor of the resolution for Independence and as first from the Virginia delegation to sign the Declaration of Independence. Following his tenure in the Continental Congress he served in various public office positions in his home State of Virginia, and became the first Professor of Law in U.S. History. When he later died in 1806, he left many items to Thomas Jefferson. , Among those items where two Silver Cups.

Later, Jefferson had the Wythe cups melted down to make eight 5-ounce silver cups, gilded inside. The model was a very small cup, believed to be French in origin. The maker was John Leitelier, a silversmith from Richmond. Jefferson had four of the cups marked “G.W. to T.J.” and four marked “T.J.”

Based on this story we have decided to begin a new tradition in the RLC of Northeast Florida. Every year we will select an individual based on their dedication and commitment to the cause of Liberty and Freedom. To commemorate their contribution, this person will receive a Jefferson Silver Cup, crafted from Sterling Silver, which shall then be passed on from year to year. It is our intention for this to symbolize the passing of the torch of Liberty and Freedom and the internal vigilance required to maintain them both as they were intended by our Founding Fathers.