In 2026, America will commemorate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the development of a new nation dedicated to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” In the years since our country has undergone many changes and faced many challenges. This commemoration offers us a unique opportunity to reflect upon our country’s founding ideals. How have those ideals impacted our last 250 years? How do they resonate today? When are we US? Explore with us the pivotal events, places, and voices, both historical and modern, that have shaped our state and country from the Halifax Resolves to the civil rights movement, and beyond.
MORE INFORMATION ON NORTH CAROLINA’S AMERICA 250 PROGRAM
In 2024, The Bladen County Commissioners appointed a committee to plan events and projects that tell the story of the Mother County’s role in the history of North Carolina and the United States.
BLADEN COUNTY FREEDOM ART CONTEST – deadline – May 25, 2025.
Call for students and adults to submit artwork that describes their interpretation of the word – FREEDOM.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the 1st and 2nd Place winners, prizes are sponsored by Camp Clearwater. The 1st and 2nd Place winners will be submitted to the regional “First in Freedom Festival” art contest and may win additional prizes. All entries will be displayed at an event TBD.
AMERICA 250 EVENTS IN BLADEN COUNTY (coming soon)
The Bladen A250 Committee is compiling a list of events and encourages all festival coordinators to contact our Chairperson – Terri Dennison
DRIVING TOUR OF HISTORICAL PLACES IN THE MOTHER COUNTY (coming soon)
The Bladen A250 Committee is also part of a larger 8-county effort in Southeastern North Carolina. The main focus of this collaboration is the First In Freedom Festival, a schedule of events and programs from February 21 – 28, 2026 throughout the region. Centered around the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Moore’s Creek, local counties, cities towns, and communities will unite with local historians and historical sites to host events and activities as well as our arts community and business community.
