With the potential for the state’s kickoff to the 250th anniversary of the nation’s birth to be held in the town of Halifax, county commissioners Monday approved a semiquincentennial commission to begin planning events.
Assistant County Manager Christina Wells said the state and local celebrations are set to begin in 2024 although the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Halifax Resolves and Declaration of Independence are in 2026.
“Much like Halifax County did with the bicentennial, there was a bicentennial commission established in 1972,” Wells told the board.
The goal of the commission will be to coordinate with the state and governments across the county with an aim to be geographically diverse, Wells said.
The terms of the commission are set to begin July 1 and run through June 30 of 2026 which would take the panel through planning for the nearly the entire celebration.
The list of potential commission members was compiled from those who have asked to be included and those who have been asked to be included. “We want this group to be geographically diverse including all the municipalities around Halifax County,” Wells said. “We want to fully represent all our citizens in Halifax County to get everyone onboard to celebrate this special event.”
Currently there is no cost attached to the commission, Wells said in response to a question from Commissioner Patrick Qaulls. “We haven’t begun to plan official events yet. That will be the task of the commission to see what is needed, to see what is being funded by the state.”
She said the state’s kick-off is planned for April 12 ,2024, which specifically aligns with the 248th anniversary of the signing of the Resolves. “We have even heard talk that there is the potential that the state kick-off could occur here in the town of Halifax. We all think it would be most appropriate for it to happen.”
Wells said tourism has been involved in discussions. “There may be tourism funding available. There may be state funding available. Historic Halifax will also be engaged. This group will be involved not only in planning the event but also seeking the funding sources and possibly doing some fundraising.”
In approving the commission, board Chair Vernon Bryant said, “This is going to be a wonderful, wonderful event that’s going to take place.”
