The May 20th Society is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that endeavors to capture and celebrate Charlotte’s rebellious and visionary spirit and history—a history that began on May 20, 1775, when two dozen prominent civic leaders signed and approved The Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence (MeckDec) – the first declaration of independence in America! Since 2003, The May 20th Society has been raising funds to bring history alive in Charlotte with its speaker series, noon commemoration of the MeckDec, unveiling of The Spirit of Mecklenburg statue and creation of the Charlotte Liberty Walk. Join us to celebrate the history of the MeckDec!
Saturday, May 6, 2017: Captain Jack Historical Bike Ride
time: 2-5:00pm
location: Start at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
event: In the Summer of 1775, Captain James Jack rode 450 miles to deliver the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence to Congress. In honor of his historic ride, we invite you to participate in a historic bike ride from the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery to various historical locations around Charlotte relevant to Captain Jack. The ride will be leaving from Olde Mecklenburg Brewery and finishing there with a social upon return. Register here.
Friday, May 19, 2017: Noon Commemoration
time: 12:00pm
location: Uptown at Trade and Tryon Streets
event: Military and Colonial Re-enactors, Historical Readings, horses, military parades, cannon firing and good ol’ American-styled patriotic celebration of who we are as a people. Don’t miss out on this free event celebrating Charlotte and its people!
Saturday, May 20, 2017: Charlotte Museum of HistoryFamily Fun Day time: Saturday 10am-4:00pm & Sunday 10am-2:00pm
location: Charlotte Museum of History, 3500 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte, NC
event: The Charlotte Museum of History is hosting a free Family Fun Day to celebrate the MeckDec and Resolves and the spirit of liberty they embodied. The celebration includes drum circles, kids’ crafts, costumed interpreters and much more. The event is free and open to the public.
Saturday and Sunday, May 20 & 21, 2017: Historic Brattonsville PresentsLiberty or Death! War in the Carolinas time: Saturday 10am-4:00pm & Sunday 10am-3:00pm
location: 1444 Brattonsville Rd., McConnells, SC 29726
event: This event features reenactments of three major battles fought in South Carolina: Kings Mountain, Camden and Eutaw Springs. These battles represent both Patriot and British victories. Over the two day event, visitors will see cannons, mounted calvary, uniformed British and American Soldiers and militiamen take the field. Other activities include cannon firing demonstrations, kids’ military drill, battlefield tours, special presentation, and hands on activities. Click here for more information.
