We Quakers did not support this unnecessary war and suffered for following the pacifist message of Rabbi Jesus and others. For non-participation, many Quakers had the sources of their livelihood seized from them – horses, cows, furniture, etc. A Quaker Fund for Sufferings Committee shared the costs of these seizures and worked to reimburse those who had loses. I am on that same Committee, 250 years later. Other Quakers had their houses broken into or were arrested by the revolutionaries. I have researched this period and have been representing Quakers at popular reenactments. If you have questions, ask me.
It is the judgement of this meeting that a tax levied for the purchasing of drums, colours, and other warlike purposes, cannot be paid consistent with our Christian testimony.
We. . . withstand and refuse to submit to the arbitrary injunctions and ordinances of men, who assume to themselves the power of compelling others, either in person or by other assistance, to join in carrying on war . . .
Philadelphia Yearly Meeting for Sufferings, 12th month, 20, 1776
Comment by admin — July 4, 2026 @ 4:58 pm