A Bicentennial Town Meeting took place between the courthouse and Diamond Park in 1976.

County residents should memorize the word “semiquincentennial” because it's going to be used with increasing frequency in the next five years.

Preparations are beginning for a host of celebrations leading up to July 4, 2026, which is the United States' 250th birthday, or semiquincentennial.

America250 is a nationwide effort to commemorate the event, and so far 18 states have created commissions to join the group in marking the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

America250Pa, Pennsylvania's commission, comprises current and past state leaders, private citizens and industry leaders. The commission was officially sworn in on Sept. 17, 2019, in Harrisburg.

Commission leaders formed a county advisory committee and asked commissioners from all 67 counties in the state to appoint a representative who will serve on the committee until 2026.

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Above, a bicentennial fashion show takes place on Main Street. Below, children enjoy a puppet show.