WINNSBORO – On July 4, 2026, America will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It is a celebration and commemoration that will be embraced by not only the nation as a whole, but – in their own way – by individual states, counties and cities.
And so the preparations are in the works for such a celebration in Fairfield County. In preparation for being a part of the U.S. Semiquincentennial celebration on July 4, 2026, Fairfield County groups are organizing how they will reflect on the county’s own history, celebrate its achievements, and envision its future.
Last Friday, Fairfield250 kicked off a two-year plan for its own July 4, 2026, celebration and commemoration with an introductory meeting headed by Fairfield Museum Director Pelham Lyles and Suzy Clinard.
The two-day planning session consisted of a 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. meeting on Friday, Aug. 2, at Midlands Technical College, followed by an all-day bus/lunch tour on Saturday, Aug. 3, taking attendees to many of Fairfield’s historic sites.
Under Clinard’s and Lyle’s guidance, the attendees began laying the foundation for a strategy to make Fairfield250 a once-in-a-lifetime event for all of Fairfield County.
“Fairfield County 250 is seeking residents, organizations, and community leaders to contribute to the Fairfield County Semiquincentennial Celebration plan,” Lyles told the group of attendees. “This is a wonderful opportunity to unite and create an inclusive celebration that truly represents the spirit and diversity of Fairfield County. We invite everyone to share their ideas and be part of this historic event.”
Lyles says organizations, clubs, businesses, community groups, the historical society, and educational institutions are encouraged to partner with Fairfield250 as part of making America250 an unforgettable event in both Fairfield’s and America’s history.
Lyles and Clinard say many more planning events will take place in Fairfield in the coming months, with additional sites, activities and events identified throughout the county.
To become involved in the planning for Fairfield250, contact Lyles at [email protected].
