On July 4^th, 2026, America will celebrate 250 years of independence. This milestone anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on Delaware’s unique story and its contributions over the course of the Nation’s history.

This story begins millennia before 1776 and continues to the present day. Over a long history—from the earliest inhabitants of the land, through the development of the Atlantic colonies, to the Declaration of Independence, over the course of the American Revolution and to the ratification of the Constitution of the United States—the peoples of the land now called Delaware helped shape a country that has continued for two and a half centuries. Although this anniversary is rooted in early American military history, this moment in time allows us to reflect upon and celebrate the plurality of histories within both the Nation and State.

Delaware 250 seeks to:

–Tell the full and honest story of Delaware’s past, which allows more people to see themselves reflected in our State’s history.

–Frame 1776 as a beginning, not the end, of our American story, as we continually strive toward creating “a more perfect union.”

–Cultivate a deeper appreciation for Delaware’s history among state residents and visitors, so that we may thoughtfully consider our history and inspire the next generation of caretakers of the rich and diverse histories of our State.