[1] The paper was presented by Thomas Lewis at the Fifth Virginia Convention on May 10, 1776, preceding the United States Declaration of Independence by more than 50 days.
"A representation from the committee of the county of Augusta was presented to the Convention, and read: setting forth the present unhappy situation of the country, and, from the ministereal measures of vengeance now pursuing, representing the necessity of making the confederacy of the United Colonies the most perfect, independent, and lasting; and of framing an equal, free, and liberal government, that may bear the test of all future ages.
"[7]Hugh Blair Grigsby, Virginia historical scholar, states that the paper presented by Lewis was, "the first distinct and responsible proposition in favor of independence and of a federal union which I have met with.
"[8] Gabriel Jones, the clerk of court for Hampshire County, referenced the proposal in an irascible letter to George Washington, on June 6, 1777.
He states: "These wretches, I mean inhabitants, of Augusta have forgot when they petitioned the Assembly for abolishing the established church and to declare independancy [sic] how they promised their lives and fortunes should be spent in supporting the Cause if their humble prayer should be granted.