Looking Back to Move Forward
This year our nation will mark a monumental milestone: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Known as America 250, this commemoration is the celebration of a historic date and also an invitation to reflect on the complex, unfolding story of our country.
Here in Raleigh, we have a unique vantage point on this national journey. North Carolina is famously “First in Freedom,” being the first of the colonies to declare independence from Britain when it adopted the Halifax Resolved on April 12, 1776. Ever since Raleigh was founded and established as a state capital in 1792, it has been surrounded by the bold ideas and enduring ideals that defined our past and continue to inspire our future.
The heart of the America 250 NC commemoration lies within local county committees, which serve as the conduit to statewide programming. These committees are dedicated to organizing local events and projects that amplify the rich history of our specific communities. With over 700 events planned statewide—ranging from reenactments and cultural programs to park cleanups—Raleigh residents will have countless ways to engage with our local heritage.
Spotlight: Preservation NC’s “America 250 Across NC”
While the national commemoration focuses on the big picture, the true heart of our history is often found in the places where people lived, worked, and built their lives. This is why we are so impressed by the work our colleagues at Preservation North Carolina are doing to showcase our state’s unique place within the national story.
Through their initiative, America 250 Across NC, Preservation NC is using the historic properties they protect to reveal fresh perspectives on North Carolina’s history. They recognize that history is rich and complicated. “The state’s earliest buildings were often built on the land that was the home of indigenous people and built by the hands of highly skilled enslaved craftspeople.”
By highlighting these protected places, they ensure that diverse voices are heard alongside more familiar narratives.
The Power of Education
In our state, efforts are already underway to ensure this history reaches the next generation, including the publication of children’s books and the establishment of the America 250 NC Freedom Fellows program for teachers. Promotional displays will even be featured at Raleigh-Durham International Airport to welcome visitors to our state’s celebration.
As Raleigh prepares for this historic milestone, Preservation Raleigh remains dedicated to ensuring our city’s physical past remains a vibrant part of our future. We believe that historic preservation is one of the most powerful tools we have to ensure that the diverse stories of our people are remembered and experienced. By protecting Raleigh’s historic, cultural, and architectural assets, we provide a link to the ideals of 1776 and the evolution of our community ever since. By supporting preservation efforts in Raleigh and across the state, we ensure that the lessons of the last 250 years remain standing for the generations to come.
We invite you to explore the many resources available to help you plan your own America 250 NC:
- America 250 NC Official Site: The central hub for North Carolina’s commemoration.
- Statewide Events Calendar: Find local exhibits, festivals, and reenactments.
- NC Historic Sites: Discover how our state’s historic locations are bringing the 250th to life.
- NC Legislative Committee: Information on the official state legislative efforts for the semiquincentennial.
Of note:
Well, I Declare: America at 250
April 10, 2026, 7:30pm at A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater at Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh.
“Well, I Declare: America at 250” features a live reading of the Declaration of Independence with thoughtful, provocative, and playful reactions from North Carolina songwriters. Led by Dawn Landes, guests will include Rissi Palmer and other musicians as well as actor Mike Wiley as narrator. This event is part of the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
More info: https://www.martinmariettacenter.com/events/detail/well-i-declare
