One Year to #America250KY
By: Jamie Johnson, Executive Director
July 2025 marks a powerful moment in our nation’s story—we are now just one year away from the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.
On July 4, 1776, delegates of the Second Continental Congress gathered in Philadelphia to approve the Declaration of Independence, a bold and visionary document that asserted the American colonies’ right to govern themselves. That moment marked the birth of a new nation—built on the ideals of liberty, equality, and self-determination.
As we approach this once-in-a-generation celebration, communities across the country are preparing to honor the past, reflect on our journey, and look ahead to the future. And here in Kentucky, we’re embracing this national milestone with local pride and purpose.
USA National Celebration, A Local Commitment
While Kentucky had not yet become a state in 1776, the spirit of independence and exploration was already alive in these hills. Kentucky officially joined the Union in 1792, but our region’s contributions to American history stretch far and wide—from frontier settlements and Civil War battles to industrial innovation and cultural achievements.
At the Historic RailPark & Train Museum in Bowling Green, we’re honored to serve as a steward of that history, and we’re already looking ahead to how we can take part in the America 250 celebration over the next year.
Spotlight on Bowling Green & Warren County
Here in Warren County, we are planning ways to commemorate this historic milestone through storytelling, heritage tourism, and community collaboration. From the preservation of our 100-year-old L&N Depot to educational programming and local partnerships, we see this as an opportunity to:
Celebrate local heroes and untold stories that shaped our region
Engage the community through interactive exhibits, tours, and events
Inspire a new generation to value our shared past and invest in our future
As a local museum rooted in national history, we believe the best way to celebrate America’s 250th is to start right here at home—with the people, places, and stories that make Bowling Green special.
All Aboard for 250
Over the next 12 months, we’ll be sharing ways you can get involved—whether through upcoming exhibits, UnSeen BG Tours, BG Trolley programming, or community-wide events leading up to July 4, 2026.
We invite you to join us on this journey as we honor the vision of 1776 and celebrate the community we’ve built together—one story, one family, one milestone at a time.
Let the countdown begin.
Stay tuned for updates and announcements at HistoricRailpark.com and follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes looks as we gear up for America 250.
