Join the Orange County Historical Society, the James Madison Museum of Orange County Heritage, and the Culpeper Minutemen Chapter SAR for a special community commemoration marking 250 years since the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

On July 8, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was first publicly read to the citizens of Philadelphia. Now, 250 years later, communities across all 50 states and 16 U.S. territories will take part in a synchronized reading of this founding document.

Here in Orange County, we invite you to gather on the front steps of the historic Orange County Courthouse at 6:00 p.m. to hear the Declaration of Independence read by Thomas Jefferson, portrayed by Marc Holma.

The reading will be followed by the tolling of church bells in commemoration of this historic moment.

As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, this event offers an opportunity to reflect on the words, ideals, responsibilities, and unfinished promises of the Declaration of Independence.

This event is free and open to the public. We hope you will join us
for an evening of history, reflection, and community.