When you think of the United States Constitution, names like Benjamin Franklin, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton come to mind.

Patrick Henry (1736-1799) is not typically remembered for his role in creating the U.S. Constitution. In fact, he was not even present when the document as created.

On Sept. 17 you will be able to hear first hand why the U.S. Constitution might not exist if it were not for the efforts of Virginia’s Patrick Henry.

The Ohio University Southern campus in Ironton will be hosting a visit from Henry at 6:15 p.m. in Bowman Auditorium, Collins Center. The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are required.

He will talk about his pressing concerns over the current Constitutional debate, his involvement in the American Revolution and thoughts about his life. He will also perform his famous “Give me liberty, or give me death” speech.

Well, not Patrick Henry himself, but his fifth great-grandson, Patrick Henry Jolly.

Jolly has performed as his famous ancestor throughout Ohio, Mississippi and Virginia. He also performs annually at the Fourth of July celebration at Red Hill, the last home and burial place of Patrick Henry in Virginia.

Jolly is also active in the Patrick Henry Memorial Foundation, currently serving as vice president if the nearly 200 member Descendant’s Branch.

Jolly lives in Geauga County and works for the Geauga County Public Library and is also a professional entertainer, performing magic, juggling and balloons as Banjo the Clown.

Following Patrick Henry’s performance, the John Marshall Fife and Drum Corps will perform.

To make reservation to see Patrick Henry, the voice of the American Revolution, contact Steve Call at 740-533-4559, 800-626-0513 extension 4559 or call@ohio.edu.