America 250! Event Marks Little-Known Anniversary of Declaration’s Signing
July 10, 2026
While Americans celebrate the Declaration of Independence every July 4th, few realize the historic document was not formally signed until August 2, 1776.
To commemorate that milestone during America’s 250th anniversary, the Issaqueena Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) will host its America 250! Tea Party on Saturday, August 1.
“Many people think America 250 is simply a Fourth of July celebration, but the Revolutionary War continued long after 1776, and the story of our nation’s founding extends far beyond Independence Day,” said Karen Petit, regent of the Issaqueena Chapter, NSDAR.
The afternoon program will feature two respected historians whose presentations will explore the enduring significance of America’s founding.
Award-winning South Carolina history teacher Mike Burgess will present “The Soul of America: The Challenges of Teaching the American Revolution in the 21st Century.” Drawing on decades of classroom experience, Burgess will examine why the story of America’s founding remains relevant today and the opportunities and challenges of teaching the Revolutionary era to new generations.
Dr. Franklin Rausch, professor of history at Lander University and recipient of the university’s 2019 Distinguished Professor of the Year Award, will present “Francis Salvador: A Man of Firsts.” An accomplished Revolutionary War historian, Rausch has published extensively on South Carolina’s role in the American Revolution and frequently shares his expertise through public lectures across the region. He also serves as a living history reenactor at Ninety Six National Historic Site, where he is a member of the cannon crew and uses historical demonstrations to help visitors better understand the Revolutionary War.
Guests will enjoy a traditional afternoon tea featuring hot tea and an assortment of sweet and savory delicacies inspired by the colonial era.
Colonial-era reenactor Jean Hutchinson will demonstrate the spinning and preparation of wool on a traditional spinning wheel, offering guests a glimpse into the everyday work and craftsmanship that sustained 18th-century families.
Period-inspired harp music by Debi Freeman Ward will provide an elegant backdrop throughout the afternoon.
Guests will also experience the “Silent Stories” exhibit, which honors often-overlooked Patriots of the Revolutionary era, including women, American Indians and Black soldiers whose contributions helped secure American independence.
The event was originally scheduled for January but was postponed because of severe winter weather. Organizers encourage previous ticket holders to attend the August 1 event, noting that all previously purchased tickets will be honored.
A limited number of additional seats are still available. Tickets are $30 per person. The America 250! Tea Party will be held Saturday, August 1, at 1:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall of the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, located at 700 South Main Street in Greenwood. To reserve a seat, email [email protected] or call 803-477-1971.
Proceeds support Issaqueena Chapter programs promoting education, historic preservation and community engagement. For more information, visit www.issaqueena-dar.org.
