ORANGE CO. – Orange County is gearing up for a monumental 2026 as the local America 250 committee met for the first time this year on January 13 to finalize plans for the nation’s semiquincentennial.
Meeting at the Paoli Library, the working group—which has been active since 2024—confirmed a schedule of events and restoration projects designed to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
A major focus of the committee’s early 2026 efforts is the preservation of local historical landmarks:
- Pivot Point Marker: Chairman Robert Henderson announced that the committee will spearhead repairs for the Pivot Point State Historical Marker, the initial point for all land surveys in Indiana.
- Freeman’s Corner: Efforts are underway to spruce up the Freeman’s Corner Marker in Orleans this spring.
- French Lick Fort: Lila Tucker of the Lost River Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.) announced plans to rededicate the historic plaque for the French Lick Fort, located at the French Lick Springs Resort.
Engaging the Next Generation
The celebration is already involving local youth through the America 250 Student Essay Contest. Sponsored by the county’s three libraries, the contest received over 70 entries. Winners for each community are expected to be announced soon.
Additionally, Henderson highlighted the “America Gives” incentive, a statewide initiative encouraging community service. Proposed local activities include a “250” Run/Walk and a program honoring 250 Acts of Kindness.
Key Events & Celebrations
The 2026 calendar is filling up with high-profile exhibitions and public ceremonies:
From May 16 to June 28, the Orange County Convention & Visitor Bureau (CVB) will host the Smithsonian Institution’s traveling exhibit, “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America.” > “We are super excited to be able to have this Smithsonian exhibition here in our own Orange County during the 250th anniversary,” said Henderson.
Independence Week Highlights
- July 4th: A time capsule buried in 1976 by the Paoli Jaycees will be opened on the Courthouse lawn.
- Memorial Rededication: The Revolutionary War Memorial will be formally rededicated. A new plaque will unveil the names of seven soldiers previously left off the 1940 marker.
- Liberty Elm: A 45-foot-tall American Liberty Elm will be planted on the Courthouse lawn, featuring a commemorative bronze plaque.
- July 8th: Following a national tradition, a public reading of the Declaration of Independence will take place on the steps of the Orange County Courthouse at the exact time the document was first read publicly in 1776.
How to Get Involved
Residents are encouraged to join the planning efforts and participate in upcoming community gatherings:
- Next Meeting: February 9 at 6:00 p.m. at the Paoli Library.
- Time Capsules: Packets for the America 250 Time Capsule project are available at all three county libraries.
- Community Gatherings: A series of “Community Gatherings,” similar to the 2016 “Slices of Orange,” will begin May 3 in Southeast Township.
For more information and real-time updates, residents can follow the Orange County America 250 Facebook page or visit the official state website at in.gov/usa250.
