Crawford County, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, communities across the nation are coming together to honor this historic milestone throughout the entire year.
On July 4, 2026, America will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a moment that invites reflection on our past, honors the contributions of all Americans, and looks ahead toward the future.
Crawford County, Ohio
Crawford County will kick off a yearlong celebration with an America 250 Kickoff and Birthday Bash, hosted by the Crawford County History Alliance (CCHA) on March 1st from 2:00-4:00 at The Hub in Crestline.
At 2:00pm, Crestline Mayor Linda Pitt will give opening remarks, and United in Harmony will perform.
The event is “open house style” as the festive occasion also marks the premiere of the CCHA History Passport Program and the Storytelling Banners Exhibit. These initiatives are designed to spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and showcase the rich historical legacy of Crawford County.
“America 250 is an invitation to reconnect with our shared history at the local level,” said Elaine Naples, CCHA Projects Director. “By highlighting the stories and voices of Crawford County, we’re helping our community see how our local history fits into the larger American story.”
All 14 CCHA member organizations will be featured at the event, each hosting display tables with special artifacts and informational displays. Participating CCHA member organizations include:
- Bucyrus Copper Kettle Works
- Bucyrus Historical Society
- Bucyrus Preservation Society (T&OC Station)
- Bucyrus Public Library
- Crawford County Art Center
- Crawford Park District
- Crestline Historical Society
- Galion Big Four Depot
- Galion History Center
- Harvey One Room School
- Lauretta Schimmoler Museum
- Lincoln Highway Association
- New Washington Historical Society
- Norton Park
Additional participating groups include the Citizen to Patriot Group and Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), who will host exhibit tables emphasizing the U.S. Constitution, veterans’ graves, and significant American landmarks.
Special exhibits and activities will further enrich the celebration. Castle Coin Company will present “250 Years of U.S. Coins,” featuring an example of every U.S. coin ever minted—including colonial coins—paired with historical context from each era.
Cabin at Willow Hollow will display framed historical art prints, reproduction furniture, and laser-cut America 250-themed pieces. The Bucyrus Public Library has also created a “Story Walk” highlighting the Revolutionary War-era Liberty Tree.
The event will include special appearances by famous historical Americans, and attendees will enjoy birthday cake in true celebratory spirit.
“This event is about bringing our community together to celebrate our shared heritage and the stories that connect us to America’s founding ideals,” said Amber Wertman of the Crawford County History Alliance.
“America 250 gives us a powerful opportunity to educate, engage, and inspire people of all ages while honoring the resilience and spirit of our nation,” added Randy Fischer, CCHA Chairman.”
America 250—National Commission
Through America 250, the national Semi-quincentennial commemoration aims to inspire Americans to reflect on our shared history, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite communities across the nation.
America 250-Ohio and America 250 in Crawford County
The state of Ohio has enthusiastically embraced this historic milestone and has been working on this major historic milestone since 2022. The America 250-Ohio Commission is leading a statewide effort to highlight Ohio’s unique contributions to the nation’s past, present, and future, encouraging all 88 counties to tell their local stories as part of the broader American narrative.
For more information about the Crawford County History Alliance and its upcoming America 250 events, visit https://crawfordcountyhistoryalliance.org/ For more information about statewide celebrations, see: https://america250-ohio.org/