Huntsville kicks off year-long celebration of America’s 250th anniversary

The City of Huntsville launched its year-long celebration of America’s 250th anniversary by announcing the formation of the Huntsville Salutes America’s 250^th Committee.

The Committee will lead a coordinated effort to honor the nation’s founding through civic events, cultural programming and historical reflection leading up to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.

“As we look to our country’s semi-quincentennial, we have a unique opportunity to reflect on where we’ve been and envision where we’re going,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “Huntsville’s legacy of innovation, service and community spirit makes it the perfect place to celebrate our shared American story.”

The Huntsville Salutes America’s 250^th Committee will collaborate with local organizations to create meaningful experiences that educate, engage and inspire residents across all generations.

The year-long celebration will highlight Huntsville’s diverse contributions to the American story and underscore the democratic ideals of liberty, equality and justice for all.

The Committee includes the following members:

• Heather Adkins, Manager of Special Collections, Huntsville-Madison County Public Library & President, Huntsville-Madison County Historical Society

• Donna Castellano, Executive Director, Historic Huntsville Foundation

• David Delisser, Recreation Superintendent, City of Huntsville Parks & Recreation

• William Hampton, Founder/Owner, Huntsville Revisited Museum

• Veronica Henderson, Director, Joseph F. Drake Memorial Learning Resources Center & State Black Archives, Alabama A&M University

• Karessa Acosta Lee, Development Officer, University of Alabama in Huntsville

• Ray Livingston, Sons of the American Revolution

• Natasha Parker, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) general member/Huntsville Pilgrimage Association

• Seth Penn, Certified Cultural Specialist, Cherokee Tribe of Northeast Alabama

• Katie Stamps, Preservation Planner, City of Huntsville

• Sally Warden, Chair, Huntsville Salutes America’s 250^th Committee

• Claire Aiello, Liaison, Huntsville/Madison County Chamber

• Elizabeth Fleming, Liaison, Huntsville City Schools

• Jennifer Moore, Liaison, Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Throughout the coming months, the Committee will announce events and initiatives designed to foster civic pride and community engagement. Residents are encouraged to participate and follow updates on the City’s website and social media channels.