Historical weather on July 4, 1776 compared with today’s heat
Records show Philadelphia’s temperature on July 4, 1776 ranged from the high 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, while current conditions in the Northeast are reaching near-triple-digit levels.
Weather data compiled from Thomas Jefferson’s daily logs indicate that Philadelphia experienced a mild summer day on July 4, 1776. Temperatures were recorded at 68 °F at sunrise, rose to about 72 °F by mid-morning, reached roughly 76 °F around early afternoon, and fell to 73.5 °F in the evening.
Jefferson, who kept detailed notes of his expenditures, purchased a thermometer that day from local apothecary John Sparhawk for three pounds and 15 shillings. He also bought several pairs of women’s gloves and made a small charitable donation, according to a report.
“It’s a mundane day, except it’s a revolutionary one,” said Andrew Davenport, vice president of research at Monticello, the Jefferson estate, speaking to CNN.
The Continental Congress adopted the final wording of the Declaration of Independence on that date, and the document was formally signed on August 2, when temperatures in Philadelphia were reported to be around 80 °F.
