Celebrating 250 Years of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence
On May 20, 2025, Charlotte will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence, a bold statement of self-governance that predates the U.S. Declaration of Independence by more than a year. According to tradition, on May 20, 1775, local patriots gathered to declare their freedom from British rule, making Mecklenburg County the first to proclaim independence in the American colonies.
This milestone is a defining moment in Charlotte’s history, shaping its identity as a city of resilience and leadership. Join us in honoring this legacy with a year of special events, lectures, and celebrations.
-Explore our Upcoming Events page to participate in local festivities in celebration of the 250th anniversary.
-To learn more about the history and debates surrounding the Mecklenburg Declaration, we recommend The First American Declaration of Independence? The Disputed History of the Mecklenburg Declaration of May 20, 1775 by Scott Syfert, which delves into the origins and legacy of this historic document.
Additionally, Who’s Your Founding Father? One Man’s Epic Quest to Uncover the First, True Declaration of Independence by David Fleming provides a broader perspective on America’s founding and the contested claims of early independence declarations.
To learn more about the history and debates surrounding the Mecklenburg Declaration, we recommend The First American Declaration of Independence? The Disputed History of the Mecklenburg Declaration of May 20, 1775 by Scott Syfert, which delves into the origins and legacy of this historic document.
Additionally, Who’s Your Founding Father? One Man’s Epic Quest to Uncover the First, True Declaration of Independence by David Fleming provides a broader perspective on America’s founding and the contested claims of early independence declarations.
