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Hyde County has joined other North Carolina counties participating in the America 250 NC program. The program marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of America’s Declaration of Independence and will be celebrated nationally, as well.

The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission is a nonpartisan organization that was established by the U.S. Congress in 2016 to plan this monumental event. Their website, america250.org, reads: “The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.”

All states will be participating in some manner. In North Carolina, the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is heading up the initiative. They are engaging with other State agencies, organizations, and individuals statewide with the goal of “energizing robust, comprehensive, and inclusive programs” across the state.

On Aug. 5, 2024, the Hyde County Commissioners adopted a resolution establishing Hyde County’s committee which is headed up by Linda Gray Mayo on the Mainland and Sundae Horn on Ocracoke. Other members of the committee, with diverse perspectives and skills, have already begun to meet and share ideas of activities that will highlight the County’s role in “the making of America.”

Work is already underway to develop a full-color, comprehensive booklet that will highlight the County’s rich history and heritage. It will also feature the eleven sites in the County that are on the National Register of Historic Places. Designed to be used by visitors as well as history aficionados, the publication will also have a list of resources for the reader seeking further information. The booklet should be ready by Spring 2025.

The Hyde County Committee is seeking participation from the Hyde community. If you, or an organization you are associated with, would like to learn more or have ideas of other ways the county can commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary, please email them to hydecountyamerica250nc@gmail.com.