Mecklenburg, First and Forever Free The Story of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence

The existence of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence has been debated by many, including through letters written by Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. Regardless of whether you believe, there is no denying the history of the annual celebrations held in Charlotte, North Carolina over the years, drawing thousands to Charlotte with four United States Presidents attending the celebration while serving as President: Taft (1909); Wilson (1916); Eisenhour (1954); and Ford (1975).

In 2025, North Carolina will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence. This children's book was created to share this heroic story with future generations.

Julie Lentz Fogg is an eighth generation American with Lentz ancestors immigrating from Postroff, Germany to Pennsylvania in 1753 and then to North Carolina in 1774. She has served on the board of The May 20th Society and Charlotte's Trail of History and is a member of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Stonewall Jackson Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy. Julie and her husband live in Charlotte with their two daughters Emma and Lily.
Based in North Carolina, Jolenna Mapes is a talented illustrator focused on children's book illustrations and recipe designs. Her vibrant artwork captures the joy of childhood, making stories come alive and her recipe illustrations capture the nostalgia of a family favorite dish or make for a lovely gift. A devoted wife and mother of three amazing daughters, Jolenna draws inspiration from her loving family, infusing her creations with the warmth of everyday adventures.