What is a Semiquincentennial? It’s a fancy and hard-to-spell way of saying “half of 500 years,” and it describes the 250th Anniversary of the founding of our country (1776–2026). As the United States starts to focus on the upcoming milestone in 2026, Virginia is already off and running, and Arlington is playing a big role in the celebration. 

ArlingtonVA250 leadership, headed by Annette Benbow of the Arlington Historical Society, launched the process with a county-wide organizing meeting in November, which included an impressive cross-section of Arlington organizations and interest groups, from civic associations to historical groups, performing arts and military associations. As the planning gets underway, ArlingtonVA250 invites all who are interested in exploring and honoring our history to get involved. 

You can access the meeting’s PowerPoint here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Hzgb_vYpxg9O6lZgpSd-9LTLrgppUPYF

Here are a few key points that emerged from the meeting:

– The vision includes many types and themes of events, not limited to just the Revolutionary War era. 

– Events can commemorate any or all of America’s successes, failures, and continuing challenges.

– Events should reflect the many voices in Arlington’s diverse population. 

– Events are welcome through 2031 (250 years after the battles ended). 

– There are state resources and grant opportunities available. 

– The celebrations will likely include historical reenactments, visual and performing arts, highlighting historical places and artifacts, and community gatherings, parades, and more.

– Arlington will have a web page on the VA250 website outlining: What is Arlington’s Story; Places to See; and Events in Arlington.

Fifty years ago, the Bicentennial (1776–1976) ignited a renewed commitment to civic engagement, historical discovery, and appreciation for our nation’s great strengths and awareness of its weaknesses. The Lyon Park newsletter was started in 1976 to connect and inform neighbors of the important issues affecting the community. It will be exciting to see how Lyon Park chooses to commemorate another 50 years of “the great experiment” which dovetails with the centennial celebration of the Lyon Park Community Center, which was built of, by, and for the people of Lyon Park.

Planning will begin in earnest after the New Year, and meetings will be accessible via Zoom. Share your ideas at the January 10 LPCA meeting or contact elizabeth.r.sheehy@gmail.com.