About Thomas Paine: Legacy

Thomas Paine: Legacy was founded to celebrate the ideas and values that Thomas Paine held dear. They strive to use history to empower present and future citizens.

By drawing attention to Paine's vision and example of active citizenship, Thomas Paine: Legacy aspires to ensure that the principles of freedom and democracy remain alive.

Their mission centers around a quote, written in Paine's Common Sense (1776) that reads "We have it in our power to begin the world over again."

The writing of Thomas Paine united people around a bold vision of self-governance and a government free from tyranny. Arriving in Philadelphia in 1774, Paine published Common Sensein 1776, igniting a revolutionary fire that brought together those living in the American Colonies around the idea of independence. Because of this, Paine holds a pivotal place in American history.

Throughout the American Revolution Paine continued to write and inspire. General George Washington ordered many of his pamphlets read to the troops throughout the Revolution. It is now suggested that Paine may have contributed to the authorship of the Declaration of Independence.

Without his humble beginnings and personal misfortune in Lewes, England, Paine might not have gone to Philadelphia at all. To fully understand Paine, it is essential to recognize the impact and importance of Lewes in his life. Paine spent six years at Bull House from 1768-1774 which transformed and shaped his ideals. 

Bull House was Thomas Paine's Lewes home from 1768-1774. Come walk in Paine's footsteps and hear about his extraordinary life. 

Bull House is open Thursdays and Saturdays 11:00AM-3:00PM

Entry is free!

Bull House is located at 92 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 1XH

For more information on visiting please contact info@thomaspainelegacy.org