See John Adams and Thomas Jefferson Debate in Bedminster

Submitted by Renáe Tesauro

Bedminster’s historic Jacobus Vanderveer House will host a debate Sunday between actors portraying John Adams and Thomas Jefferson from 2 to 4 p.m. 

The Jacobus Vanderveer House will be open for tours from 1 to 4 p.m.

John Adams was pivotal to the American Revolution, devoting his legal talents to the cause of freedom and liberty. His bulldog tenacity and political acumen served him well as Washington’s Vice President, as the U.S. Surgeon General and as the second President of the United States.  His sharp legal mind enabled him to frame key precepts for the emerging United States, but Adams shrewdly recommended that Thomas Jefferson write the Declaration of Independence in order to secure southern support.

Adams wrote the Massachusetts Constitution, which served as the model for the United States Constitution, advocating three equal branches of government: executive, legislative and judicial. He encouraged an end to slavery and promoted education for both men and women.  

Actor Joe Doyle portrays Adams with intelligent confidence and artistic honesty.   Thomas Jefferson was an American titan who led by charisma and conversation. The first United States Secretary of State, the second Vice President, and the third President, Jefferson was most proud of penning the Declaration of Independence, founding the University of Virginia, and shepherding the Statute of Religious Freedom.  

Actor Steve Edenbo offers his audience Thomas Jefferson’s gifts with eloquence in a performance that engages and inspires. 

The Adams-Jefferson debate is free, but registration is suggested.Call 908-396-6053 or visit www.jvanderveerhouse.org. The Jacobus Vanderveer House is located at 3055 River Road.