Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence

This year marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In recognition of this auspicious landmark in our nation's history, Town Council passed a proclamation at its meeting on Thursday, March 5, 2026, commemorating our Town’s and our nation’s enduring liberty, strength, and spirit. To follow the countdown to this semiquincentennial celebration and to learn more about our nation's journey to this momentous milestone, we suggest you visit the America 250 - Guilford County  initiative.

 

 

PROCLAMATION

 

        WHEREAS, in the year 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, asserting the right of self-governance and freedom from British rule to the thirteen American colonies, laying the foundation for a new nation built on the principles of liberty, democracy, and justice; and

        WHEREAS, the citizens of the Town of Oak Ridge played a part in the efforts for our nation’s independence, most notably in the March 15, 1781, Battle of Guilford Courthouse, which took place less than 10 miles away and in which the British won the battle but, as a result of heavy casualties incurred here, ultimately lost the war; and

        WHEREAS, the Old Mill of Guilford, located in the Town of Oak Ridge, reportedly was seized by British soldiers and made to grind grain to feed the troops leading up to the Battle of Guilford Courthouse; and

        WHEREAS, a skirmish on February 11, 1781, involving James Gillies, an unarmed American bugler boy serving in the Continental Army under Lt. Col. “Light Horse Harry” Lee, took place on Oak Ridge Road just outside the Oak Ridge town limits; and

        WHEREAS, Oak Ridge Military Academy has educated generations of cadets who went on to serve this nation in various branches of the armed forces; and

        WHEREAS, citizens of the Town of Oak Ridge continue to exemplify the ideal of service over self in their various walks of life; and

        WHEREAS, this year, the United States will commemorate its 250th anniversary, offering an opportunity to reflect on the nation's journey, celebrate its achievements, and envision its future.

        NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that as mayor of the Town of Oak Ridge, I hereby recognize the 250th anniversary of our nation's independence and honor the contributions and sacrifices made by those who have demonstrated strength, resilience, and determination.

        BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that this proclamation will serve as a powerful reminder of this town’s and our nation's enduring spirit and a call to action for future generations.


Signed, this the 5th day of March, 2026.                                                                               

 

                                                                               

 _________________________________________________

James N. Harton
Mayor

ATTEST:

 

 

_________________________________________________

Sandra B. Smith, MMC, NCCMC
Assistant Town Manager/Town Clerk