Clark Councilman Brian Toal Celebrates Signer of Declaration Abraham Clark on Nation's 250th

On July 4, 2026—the nation's 250th birthday—Clark and Rahway residents gathered at Rahway Cemetery to remember Abraham Clark, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. It was the 12th Annual Ceremony Honoring the Life and Legacy of Abraham Clark, organized by the Knights of Columbus Assembly 0656.

Nearly 80 people attended, including local historians, elected officials, state society representatives, and community members who came to celebrate American history and the life of an American hero.

Clark Councilman Brian Toal participated in the ceremony, calling it "a special day to honor our past." Toal reflected on Abraham Clark's legacy of "constancy of purpose"—a principle he said should guide all who seek to serve.

"I hope other residents of Rahway and Clark take a few minutes to visit the final resting place of an American hero," Toal said following the event.

The ceremony was led by Libarid "Libby" Maljian, Grand Knight of the Rahway Knights of Columbus, who has led this annual observance for the past twelve years. Reverend James Hayer, pastor of Rahway's Saint Thomas the Apostle Byzantine Catholic Church and chaplain of the assembly, offered the invocation and benediction.

The program included a biographical reflection on Abraham Clark's role in the American Revolution, shared by Maljian. This was followed by a reading of the complete text of the Declaration of Independence, with assistance from Councilman Toal, Cranford Commissioner Gina Black, Princeton Battlefield Society Past President Michael Russell, American Legion Union County Commander David Broadwell, and New Jersey State Society Daughters of the American Revolution State Regent Linda Jurczak.

The Rahway Valley Jerseyaires, an official chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, performed two patriotic songs from the Revolutionary period: "Free America" and "Hail, Columbia."

Among the dignitaries and local officials in attendance were representatives from multiple organizations dedicated to preserving American history: the Princeton Battlefield Society, the American Legion, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Sons of the American Revolution. Representatives from Rahway's Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum were also present to support the event.

The ceremony took place on a hot July 4th—temperatures exceeded 90 degrees with a heat index near 105—but the community's commitment to remembering American heroes and history remained undaunted.

Union County Life celebrates the annual traditions that connect residents to their shared history and honors those who have led the way. Abraham Clark's legacy of service and sacrifice continues to inspire communities across Union County.

FAQ

Q: Who was Abraham Clark?
A: Abraham Clark was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. He was born in Roselle, New Jersey, and is buried in Rahway Cemetery. Clark Township is named in his honor.

Q: When is the annual Abraham Clark ceremony held?
A: The 12th Annual Ceremony Honoring Abraham Clark's life and legacy was held on July 4, 2026. This annual event commemorates the Declaration signer on Independence Day.

Q: Who organizes the Abraham Clark memorial ceremony?
A: The ceremony is organized by the Knights of Columbus Assembly 0656 (Father John P. Washington), which is represented by Fourth Degree Knights from five local councils: Rahway Council 1146, Linden Council 2859, Clark Council 5503, Linden Council 15808, and Clark Council 17401. Grand Knight Libarid "Libby" Maljian has led the ceremony for the past twelve years.

Q: What happens during the ceremony?
A: The ceremony includes a biographical reflection on Abraham Clark's role in the American Revolution, a complete reading of the Declaration of Independence with local officials and community leaders, patriotic music performances, and reflections from community members. Reverend James Hayer, chaplain of the assembly, offers the invocation and benediction.

Q: Where is Abraham Clark buried?
A: Abraham Clark is buried in Rahway Cemetery, which is located just blocks from Clark Township. The cemetery is open to residents and visitors who wish to pay their respects and learn about local Revolutionary War history.

Q: How can I learn more about Abraham Clark and other Declaration signers?
A: Union County Life covers historical sites, war memorials, and local history across Clark, Rahway, and all Union County municipalities. Contact the Princeton Battlefield Society, the New Jersey State Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, or local historical societies for additional information.