America 250 Committee

The America 250 Committee is leading the celebration of our country's founding with education lectures, feature stories and events.

Learn more about our town's role in the birth of our nation on the Old Lyme Celebrates America 250 page.

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July 2026 marks the 250^th anniversary of our Nation. Old Lyme’s America 250 Committee is seeking volunteers to plan a townwide picnic in celebration of this historic occasion. Location, date, and other special details can be determined by this volunteer group! The more the merrier; this committee will be a great way to meet other residents and come together for a fun celebration. To find out more, email OldLymeA250 @gmail.com. Local organizations are also encouraged to reach out and participate.

We look forward to celebrating our county's birthday with you!

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Background: On March 4, 2024, the Board of Selectpersons unanimously voted to designate an America 250 Committee to engage, encourage, and coordinate Old Lyme residents and organizations in celebrating our country's 250th anniversary. The United States Semiquincentennial ("America 250") takes place in 2026, highlighting the July 4, 2026 Independence Day.

National America 250 Vision:

To commemorate and celebrate our 250th anniversary with inclusive programs that inspire Americans to renew and strengthen our daring experiment in democracy. The shared experiences of America 250 will have ignited our imaginations, elevated our diverse stories, inspired service in our communities, and demonstrated the lasting durability of the American project.  (America250.org)

State of CT Effort and Themes:

The State of CT along with CT Humanities is coordinating statewide efforts with a special emphasis on enhancing tourism, economic development, outdoor recreation, and historic education and preservation.

The State has developed four key themes as inspiration for municipalities such as Old Lyme in commemorating the 250th anniversary:

1. Tell Inclusive Stories: Tell stories that represent all people, past and present. 
2.  Power of Place: Highlight the unique identities and contributions of our place, Old Lyme, Connecticut.
3.  Doing History: Invite the public to participate in the process of "doing history." Create a collaborative environment and provide access for all to cultural experiences. 
4. For the Common Good: Encourage civic engagement to continue to build our communities, state, and nation using democratic ideals outlined in our founding documents. 

Town of Old Lyme America 250 Committee Appointees

Appointees to the Town of Old Lyme America 250 Committee and its subcommittees should represent residents, cultural organizations, boards & commissions, historians, and artists with a diversity of strengths and experiences. To apply please fill out this application for consideration.