America 250

Lively, interactive history-based discussions with scripted and spontaneous debate on historical and contemporary issues — often in pubs, mirroring how Revolutionary War issues were debated and discussed.

Historical organizations will sponsor lively, facilitated, history-based discussions for adults, and local venues, combining scripted and spontaneous debate on historical and contemporary issues. These interactive programs ask participants to consider the difficult choices faced during the colonial period and to reflect on their modern parallels. Trivia, games, and giveaways will be included, with brewed beverages offered where appropriate. 

Multiple dates will be announced in partnership with participating local sponsors and venues.  Programs will be free to attend with advance RSVP. 

Self-guided tours have been created — traveling through Wayne County’s historic countryside, along the shores of Lake Ontario and the banks of the Erie Canal, have been created. Routes explore the people and places that shaped the region and highlight historical stops. Tours will be available online, via a mobile app, and in print.

Routes will wind through historic hamlets and culturally significant landscapes, encouraging exploration of places and people that shaped the region’s past. Tours will include audio playback and suggested historic stops, allowing participants to learn at their own pace while experiencing the county’s colonial and national heritage related to Revolutionary ancestors and first inhabitants of the land. 

Guest speakers will be invited to Wayne County to present engaging talks throughout the "America 250" celebration. 

A keynote presentation will feature nationally recognized author and Ontario native Jack Kelly, who will provide modern commentary on Revolutionary-era citizen soldiers, some of whom are buried in our local cemeteries. The celebrated historian will include in-depth discussion of General “Mad Anthony” Wayne, the county’s namesake, and research into figures such as Thomas Paine, blending scholarship with accessible, common-sense insights. 

Dates and locations for the talks will be announced in the spring.

The Wayne County Historical Society will ensure public access and awareness for “America 250” education and celebration via schools, libraries, media, and online outlets. A featured source will be “Broadside” fliers, which were the primary form of printed marketing materials of Colonial America.