SPRINGFIELD – Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is inviting Illinoisans to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with the launch of a new America 250 website, Illinois State Archives social media channels and a series of exhibitions and events highlighting Illinois’ profound impact on the nation’s history.
Beginning in July, residents can participate in a public reading of the Declaration of Independence, explore a new archival exhibit and enjoy free, family-friendly activities across Springfield’s Capitol Complex.
“Illinois has helped shape the American story from the frontier days of Abraham Lincoln to the innovations, movements and leaders that continue to influence our nation today,” said Giannoulias, who also serves as the State Archivist and State Librarian. “As we commemorate this historic milestone, we invite Illinoisans to discover the people, places and moments that helped define our state and country. This is an opportunity to reflect on where we’ve been, celebrate how far we’ve come and inspire future generations to carry those ideals and values forward.”
The new America 250 webpage serves as a digital gateway to Illinois history, showcasing the state’s contributions to the nation’s political, economic, agricultural and cultural development. Visitors can explore historic photographs, documents and other treasures from the collections of the Illinois State Archives and the Illinois State Library while also accessing a complete schedule of America 250 events and activities taking place throughout the Capitol Complex.
As part of the America 250 commemoration, the Illinois State Archives has launched official social media channels – @ilstatearchives – to help bring Illinois history to new audiences and engage residents in the celebration leading up to the nation’s 250th anniversary. Through historical photographs, documents, artifacts and behind-the-scenes content, the channels showcase the stories, people and events that shaped Illinois and the nation.
On July 8, Illinois will join all 50 states in a simultaneous public reading of the Declaration of Independence. The event will begin at 5 p.m. on the steps of the Illinois State Capitol and is open to the public.
On July 9, the State Archives and State Library will debut “America 250: Land of Lincoln,” a summer-long exhibition celebrating Illinois’ place in the nation’s history. The exhibit features historic plat maps from across the state, original surveyors’ notes and land records connected to Abraham Lincoln, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the people, communities and landscapes that shaped Illinois history. This exhibit will remain on display through Labor Day.
The celebration continues July 17-18 with a free, two-day family event hosted in partnership with the Illinois State Museum and the Illinois Supreme Court. Families can enjoy presentations from acclaimed Illinois children’s authors, archival conservation demonstrations, an American eagle flight demonstration, a Route 66 exhibit and other interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.
The event also provides a unique opportunity to explore the many educational and cultural resources available year-round at the Illinois State Capitol, Illinois State Archives, Illinois State Library, Illinois State Museum and Illinois Supreme Court Learning Center. Activities will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout the Capitol Complex.
Follow the Illinois State Archives on social media at @ilstatearchives and view the full schedule of America 250 events at www.ilsos.gov/america250.
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