As millions of Americans prepare to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday, the weather is once again part of the story. But did you know one of our Founding Fathers was also an avid weather observer? Thomas Jefferson's meticulous records provide a remarkable window into what conditions were like during one of the most important moments in American history.
Thomas Jefferson's passion for weather observations was so influential that the National Weather Service later referred to him as the "Father of Weather Observers." His vision of simultaneous weather observations across the country closely resembles the nationwide weather networks and forecasting systems Americans rely on today.
Three days before the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776, Thomas Jefferson purchased a thermometer from a local Philadelphia merchant while he was in town for the signing. He also bought a barometer, one of only a handful for sale in America at the time.… pic.twitter.com/HTi91O2p37
— Jesse Ferrell (@WeatherMatrix) February 17, 2025
