A series of readings of the Declaration of Independence across the county on the Fourth of July will kick off Loudoun’s participation in a statewide celebration of 250 years of American independence.
The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission, a statewide commission established by the General Assembly in 2020, is working to plan, promote and execute events starting this year and continuing into 2033, focusing on the full history of the American Revolutionary War.
Local organizers coordinating with the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission have planned a series of activities to put a spotlight on Loudoun County’s contributions to the American Revolution, which will celebrate its semiquincentennial anniversary in 2026. Local readings of the Declaration of Independence are scheduled on Tuesday, July 4, 2023:
- 10 a.m.: St. James Church, 10 E. Broad Way, Lovettsville
- 10:30 a.m.: Claude Moore Park, 46105 Loudoun Park Lane, Sterling
- 2:00 p.m.: Loudoun County Courthouse Grounds, 18 E. Market Street, Leesburg
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors approved a resolution during its May 16 meeting to participate in local activities that highlight the roles of Loudoun and its residents. The county has also created a web page with information about the county’s participation in the observance.
Loudoun VA250 Committee
The Loudoun Virginia 250 Committee aims to increase regional tourism, honor the past and enhance local history education. Representatives from the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area, the George C. Marshall International Center, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution District VIII, the Virginia Sons of the American Revolution, the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum, NOVA Parks, the Lovettsville Historical Society & Museum, and the Waterford Foundation are participating in Loudoun’s committee.
Loudoun’s Role in the Revolution
During the American Revolution, hundreds of Loudoun residents of all backgrounds served in military capacities, while those at home supplied food, labor, goods, and livestock. The Continental Army as well as British, German, and American Loyalist prisoners frequently traversed Loudoun, which is home to several 18th century thoroughfares, such as the Carolina Road, Ashby’s Gap Road, Snickersville Turnpike and Vestal’s Gap Road.
The commemorative activities also will put a spotlight on Loudoun’s African American history, including the realities of slavery and the stories of people who served in the Continental Army or joined the British in search of freedom.
More Information
More information about the 250th anniversary of American independence is online at loudoun.gov/loudounva250.
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