In Congress, November 1, 1777 : forasmuch as it is the indispensible duty of all men ... it is ... recommended to the legislative or executive powers of these United States, to set apart Thursday, the eighteenth day of December next, for solemn thanksgiving and praise ... State of Connecticut. By the governor. Agreeable to the above recommendation ... Given under my hand in Lebanon, the 4th day of December ... 1777

December 4, 1777 broadside resolved by the Congress of the United States, and issued by Governor Jonathan Trumbull of Connecticut, proclaiming December 18th as a day of solemn thanksgiving and prayer because of the successes at the just and necessary war.