Celebrating 250 Years
of the Declaration of Independence
Our Mission
To engage the citizens and residents of Orange County in commemorating and celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States by:
– Exploring the history and fundamental principles underlying our constitutional government.
– Advancing the historical ideals and aspirations embodied in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
– Inspiring the American spirit through recognition of our shared heritage, common rights and responsibilities, and respect for each other.
– Equipping our citizens and residents to engage in the civic life of their community without regard to ethnicity, national origin, religion, or political affiliation.
– Reflecting on the origin of Orange County, its history as an important part of the history of California, and its contributions to the development of the United States.
– Celebrating with our friends, families, local governments, and organizations to listen to and learn from our history and each other to make a lasting impact for generations to come.
A History of Celebrations
1826
50th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
On July 4, 1826, President John Quincy Adams celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in the nation’s Capitol, unaware that its author, Thomas Jefferson, had died early in the afternoon in his home in Virginia and that his father, John Adams, would die hours later at his home in Massachusetts. The President record his thoughts that, “on that day while every ear was bounding with joy… amid the blessings of freedom and independence … the hand that penned the ever-memorable Declaration, and the voice that sustained it in debate… were called before the Judge of All.”
1876
President Ulysses S. Grant
A proclamation inviting the people of the United States to offer “devout thanksgiving to Almighty God for the blessings which have been bestowed upon us as a nation during the century of our existence, and humbly to invoke a continuance of His favor and of his protection.”
1926
President Calvin Coolidge
“There is something beyond the establishment of a new nation, great as that event would be, in the Declaration of Independence which has ever since caused it to be regarded as one of the great charters that not only was to liberate America but was everywhere to ennoble humanity.”
1976
President Gerald Ford
“It is good to know that in our own lifetime, we have taken part in the growth of freedom and in the expansion of equality which began here [Independence Hall] so long ago… Each generation of Americans, indeed all of humanity, must strive to achieve the aspirations of the Declaration anew.”
The Project
USA 250 OC
USA 250 OC is For Everyone
We are pleased that this project has bi-partisan support and broad community outreach.
USA 250 - Online
Our website is a dynamic resource filled with events and resources to engage the community. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest and greatest.
USA 250 - On the Air
Through podcasts and video, we will share insights into our current celebration through the the lense of local and renowned historians and speakers.
In the Community
Over the course of the project, we will build a sense of community around USA 250-OC celebrations, participate in fairs and festivals, host seven signature events, and stimulate creativity around commemorating this momentous occasion.
Be Part of the Celebration
We encourage organizations, businesses, families, and individuals to join us in this historic celebration.
Together, we can honor our past, understand our present, and shape our future
Your financial support will enable us to develop and host educational programs, community events, and much more.
Every contribution helps us bring this celebration to life and reach more people.
