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!
The May 20th Society is not a private, membership society nor are there any fees to join.
To learn more about the MeckDec, please read The First American Declaration of Independence? by our very own Board Chairman and native Charlottean, Scott Syfert. Visit Park Road Books or Amazon to purchase.
You can also check out Deadly Declarations a mystery novel by local author Landis Wade based principally on Scott Syfert’s research. It too is available at Park Road Books and on Amazon.
Support The May 20th Society and keep history alive by
donating online or contacting [email protected].
2023 MECKDEC Event Schedule
Wednesday, May 24, 2023:
Captain James Jack Colonial Dinner
Tickets now on sale! https://shop.oldemeckbrew.com/products/captain-james-jack-colonial-beer-dinner
time: 6:00pm
location: Olde Mecklenburg Brewery
event: The May 20th Society and The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery are excited to partner again for this event! Join us for this four course colonial themed dinner. Each course is paired with a different beer from The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, including our favorite Captain Jack Pilsner. Huzzah!
Friday, May 19, 2023:
time: 12:00pm
location: Intersection of Trade & Tryon Streets, Charlotte, NC 28202
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, 2023:
MecDec Day National Book and Beer Release
time: 12:00pm – 7:00pm
location: Lost Worlds Brewing (19700-D One Norman Blvd, Cornelius, NC 28031)
event: celebrate David Fleming’s new book, Who’s Your Founding Father? Additional information provided here
