As the representative of Virginia in Congress, Jefferson would have attended many meetings. Congress met six days a week, with morning sessions typically lasting until four PM, while evening meetings typically lasted well into the night. The delegates, however, were not required to attend every session, and there were likely committee meetings occurring simultaneously. Despite his limited attendance, Jefferson would have had plenty of opportunities to observe the workings of Congress and influence policy.
Jefferson purchased expensive weather equipment when he arrived in Philadelphia in July 1776 and began keeping a detailed weather journal. He used his weather journal for 50 years, noting daily temperature data in places he visited. For example, on July 4, 1776, he noted that the weather in Philadelphia was cloudy, and the temperature reached 76 degrees. He spent the rest of the day trying to cajole the international liberal revolution.
