America 250 Events Continue with Declaration Reading, New Exhibit

American flag Declaration of Independence represent national pride during historical event in July.

Illinois will mark America’s 250th anniversary with a statewide moment of reflection in Springfield. On Wednesday, July 8, Illinois joins all 49 other states in a simultaneous public reading of the Declaration of Independence. The reading begins at 5 p.m. on the steps of the Illinois State Capitol.

The commemoration continues Thursday, July 9, as the State Archives and State Library open “America 250: Land of Lincoln,” a summer-long exhibition highlighting Illinois’ role in the nation’s history. Featured items include historic plat maps, original surveyors’ notes, and land records tied to Abraham Lincoln.