“The ballot is stronger than the bullet.”
-Abraham Lincoln
Throughout the United States the first Tuesday following November 1st is regarded as Election Day. The history of Election Day is largely rooted in our nation’s history as a primarily agricultural society.
November was chosen as the ideal month for voting for practical farming reasons. Mainly, it did not interfere with the planting, growing and harvesting seasons, and, secondarily, the weather was still mild enough to accommodate travel.
Tuesday was also chosen for its practicality. As Saturdays were necessary work days and Sundays were reserved for church, weekends were not a viable option for voting. This, combined with the fact that most voters needed at least a day to travel to their county seat, made Tuesday the obvious choice. While these original practicalities no longer apply to 21st century living, we have held on to this tradition.
Locally, this Tuesday, November 7th is important in that it is the time for the residents of each town to vote their choice on such municipal offices as Town Supervisor, Tax Collector, and Town Clerk as well as representatives to the Board of Education and Planning and Zoning Commission, among others.
Voters unsure of their polling place can visit their individual town’s website. Litchfield County,
CT voters can refer to 2017 Town Ballots – CT.gov to find each town’s ballot online.
In Dutchess County, NY, voters can visit www.dutchesselections.com for election information.
In Berkshire County, MA, voters should refer to their town’s individual website for voter information.
Looking for a way to celebrate your vote? Consider The Wassaic Project’s Election Day Community Celebration being held at the Wassaic, NY Fire House. This non-partisan event will include food, music, and plenty of activities for the kids. For more information, visit http://wassaicproject.org.
