How many delegates were originally selected to the Constitutional Convention?
Originally, different delegates were selected by Virginia, but three refused. Rhode Island declined to send any delegates. When the “Grand Convention” convened in Philadelphia on May 14, 1787, most delegates hadn’t arrived. By the 25th, however, there was a quorum, of 7 states, represented, and the convention began. Many delegates arrived weeks or months late, and others left early before the final voting. When the final version of a new Constitution was submitted for signing, on September 17, 39 men put their pens to the document.