It's here!
America's 250th---the Semiquincentennial is here!
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| 250 years ago... |
I've been waiting fifty years to make up for what I did not do during the Bicentennial.
As a 15 year old, I could not drive yet, so I had to rely on others, mainly my parents, to take me places. And since both my mom and dad worked full-time jobs, the last thing they wanted to do was to chauffeur their teenage son to some history thing---and now I completely understand.
Most of my Bicentennial experiences took place through me reading books, magazines, and newspapers, as well as watching every show about history that I could on TV.
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| 50 years ago---I remember the Bicentennial~~~~ |
It seemed from the early 1970s through the end of 1976, wherever one turned there was something being written in newspapers and magazines about our colonial roots and the Revolutionary War. Does anyone else remember "Bicentennial Minute"?
That was fifty years ago.
I first read the following quote about a decade ago, and have held it dear to my heart ever since. I do not know the writer of it, for I found it on an Amazon book review. But I have loved it since first reading it. I find it fitting:
"Something special happened over two centuries ago. But is that story being told and promoted? And to do that, you also have to be willing to promote what makes America special. That's not very PC these days, but maybe it's time to start celebrating America again, especially in the run up to the 250th in 2026."
It's amazing to think that's how long it's been since our country celebrated that special landmark anniversary. No political views got in the way back then; we all - hippies, punk rockers, disco folk, country folk, old and young - celebrated like never before...or since.
We were all one.
You may recall that I've written numerous blog postings about that gigantic celebration from 1976. If you missed 'em, all four links are at the bottom of today's post.
Being that I am a collector - not a hoarder - I have amassed a good quantity of Bicentennial items, and have acquired a decently large and eclectic collection. More recently I've been collecting cool things for our Nation's 250th birthday, though I don't have nearly as much in comparison to 50 years ago...this stuff can be expensive! And as we get closer to the big day, more and more cool keepsakes seem to be finding their way to my house.
And that's what I intend to show you today~~~
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| This is it - - the last "big one" for another fifty years! |
I hope you enjoy looking at my America 250 collectibles.
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Now I don't give a hoot on whether or not you like Trump - politics be damned! - I think our 250th celebration is pretty awesome, and I love when I see people on both sides of the political fence celebrating together. We are celebrating America as Americans!
Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose. It is the policy of the United States, and a purpose of this order, to provide a grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026. It is also the purpose of this order to take other actions to honor the history of our great Nation.
Section 2. Establishing the White House Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday.
(a) There is hereby established the White House Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday (Task Force 250).
(b) The President shall be the Chair of Task Force 250 and the Vice President will serve as Vice Chair.
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| Celebrate America! |
Many of the items in this post, like my previous posts of my collectibles, are not worth a ton of money - what I have won't make me (or my kids) rich. I collect because I've always liked to collect. "Decluttering boomer junk is a major, emotional task for aging parents and their children, often solved through cleaning, garage sales, and gifting items to family early to avoid leaving a burden. The process requires digitizing sentimental items and recognizing that decluttering is a gift to families."
Oh how sentimental.😰😉😆
Nope.
I still collect. More and more. Almost weekly. It makes me happy. And I'm still alive. My "gift to families" is my stuff they can go through after I'm gone, and they can keep what they want, sell what they don't want. That's it in a nutshell.
Today's post shows that~~~
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America's current commemorations actually began back in 2020 for the 250th anniversary of the Boston Massacre. Unfortunately, that was somewhat marred by the covid fear. And then in December of 2023, there was an even bigger showing for the 250th of the Boston Tea Party, which seemed to go off pretty well. I was not at either event, but I did watch the Boston Tea Party reenactment live on Fox Nation. In fact, I believe viewers can still watch it streaming. It was good.
Then, in 2025 there was the 250th of the start of the battles of the American Revolutionary War - Battles of Lexington and Concord. I watched numerous clips of the reenactment. I wish I could have been there---actually, I was, just about a month after the commemorative reenactment (click HERE)!
I also hosted a commemoration and celebration of that first major outbreak of the American Revolution of 250 years previous - click HERE~~~
Now that we are into America's big 250th birthday, the time is nigh!
In other words...It's here!!
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| Gadsden Flag |
Stop thinking that having pride in your country and waving the flag - historic or modern - has been hijacked by any political party. I recall being at a protest and they handed out the Gadsden Flag. Understand, this was a show of arms for Unions, and there were some mighty upset people there. "This is a conservative flag!" some yelled. "This is a Republican flag!" others screamed. And I loudly proclaimed that this was a historical flag for all Americans. One nut-job yelled that she was embarrassed to be an American. And I replied, "Yet, here you are, in America." We ended up protesting and most of us carried our 'Don't Tread On Me' flags high in the air. Please stop getting your information from Facebook memes or some agenda-filled nincompoop. It makes you look foolish. My hope is for us all to be American no matter which side of the political fence anyone is on. I have waved 'Old Glory' and historical flags no matter what party runs our country.
So let's get down to celebratory business:
Here is something I think is very cool that occurred in spring 2026. Our founders could never even have fathomed anything such as this - - it is so cool:
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| "This month (April), America250 joined in celebrating NASA’s Artemis II mission, an important step in returning humans to the Moon and preparing for future journeys beyond. In a powerful tribute to this legacy, astronauts carried the spirit of 250 years of American history 250,000 miles to the Moon, featuring the America250 flag in a live telecast to Earth just after completing their historic lunar flyby. As we look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary, milestones like Artemis II reflect the same spirit of curiosity, courage, and innovation that has defined our nation for generations." |
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| This is the official logo of America's 250th celebration. I made sure to get a few window stickers of this. Can you see it beneath the American (and Canadian) flags in the spaceship in the photo above this one? |
Gotta love all the very cool Americana items out there. I don't collect everything, just the things that I like. Sometimes others may get some items for me, which I do appreciate.
I wonder...will what I have in my possession at this time be around in 50 years? I am quite certain I won't see the Tricentennial (America 300), for I would be 115 years old---on the very slight odd chance I do make it, my brain will probably be too old to comprehend. But still, how awesome would that be to have such cool Americana collectibles from 1976 and 2026?
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| Here are two America 250 flags I purchased. The flag on top is the official Semiquincentennial logo. I like how the bottom flag pays an homage to the Bicentennial and those who celebrated and experienced that milestone as well (my hand is raised here!). It is very very doubtful I'll see the Tricentennial. Only God knows, though... |
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| Long may they wave...perhaps until the Tricentennial!! |
As we get closer and closer to July 4th, there seems to be more celebrations for America's 250th, and I become more and more excited. In fact, I purchased many, many hand-held flags - 70-ish - in various styles to pass out to the lads and lasses at our Mill Race Village commemoration:
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| I think kids should have such souvenirs - helps to keep their American pride, I would hope. |
From what I understand, the nationwide commemoration of the Semiquincentennial formally kicked off around Memorial Day 2025, and will continue throughout 2026.
The commemoration period culminates on July 4, 2026. Because this is a massive milestone, the United States Semiquincentennial Commission (also known as America250) has spent the last several years planning events, and the U.S. Mint has even begun shipping unique Semiquincentennial Circulating Coins into everyday commerce.
The two dollar bill is one of the very first collectible items commemorating the historic anniversary.
Not my first - you'll see that soon enough - but one of the first put out there.
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| • Each Bill is Handsomely Showcased in Blue 2-Sided Display Folio |
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| • Genuine U.S. Legal Tender $2 Bill • Full-Color Certificate of Authenticity is Included with Each Bill (the Semiquincentennial colorized two-dollar bill is a genuine piece of U.S. legal tender, but the colorization is an aftermarket enhancement applied by a private company rather than the government) |
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| • High-Definition Colorization Process • Highest Quality Colorization in the World, Accomplished Through a Revolutionary Technique • Each Bill purchased this way is in Fresh, Crisp, Uncirculated Condition |
As for the coins in the picture below:
"The U.S. Mint's 2026 circulating coin redesigns are being produced for one year only, making them highly collectible."
"The U.S. Mint's 2026 circulating coin redesigns are being produced for one year only, making them highly collectible."
Thus, these pilgrim/Mayflower coins are considered to be the first actual "legitimate" Semiquincentennial collectibles.
Now, there are more coins coming, three more, from what I understand, but they have not been released as of the date of this post's publishing. I'll add them as I get them.
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| TOP: "The Mayflower Compact quarter stands out as a key release in this limited series, symbolizing the nation's earliest democratic roots and its 250‑year evolution toward liberty and self‑government." Front side of the coin shows two Pilgrims. The reverse side shows the Mayflower. BOTTOM: Another 2026 Revolutionary War quarter obverse features George Washington, the first President of the United States and Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. The reverse shows a Continental Army soldier at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. Washington’s forces endured defeat at the Battle of Brandywine and faced disease and extreme cold during their winter encampment from 1777 – 1778. |
I do like what the U.S. Mint wrote:
This Semiquincentennial celebration represents a quarter of a millennium since the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, marking the birth of the United States. It's a momentous occasion that invites reflection on our rich history, the struggles and triumphs that have shaped us, and the values that continue to define us as a nation.
This Semiquincentennial celebration represents a quarter of a millennium since the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, marking the birth of the United States. It's a momentous occasion that invites reflection on our rich history, the struggles and triumphs that have shaped us, and the values that continue to define us as a nation.
The United States Mint plans to release new coins in 2026 as part of their Semiquincentennial Coin Program to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding. The program will see new designs on many circulating coins just for 2026, including the Lincoln cent, Jefferson Nickel, and Roosevelt Dime, with special provisions for quarter, half-dollar, and dollar-denominated coinage. Up to five quarter designs may be issued, one of which must be "emblematic of a woman's or women's contribution to the birth of the Nation or the Declaration of Independence or any other monumental moments in American History."
As excited as I was back in 1976 for the Bicentennial, but I think I'm more excited now for the Semiquincentennial, for I am much older now and, thanks to reenacting & living history, can actually take part!
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| Celebrating the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere's ride with Creative Cockades in 2025. (click HERE) |
My family, in those long ago days, was never big on vacationing or really going anywhere besides our family cottage (a wonderful place, by the way), which was about a 60 to 90 minute drive from our home. We didn't go to Boston, Colonial Williamsburg, Philadelphia, or even locally to Greenfield Village (which was only about 40 minutes from our home). Please understand, I'm not bashing or dogging my parents in any way. To be honest, none of my friends went on a cool historical vacation either, so I couldn't even be jealous! I do recall asking my mom & dad about going to Greenfield Village, but, because of the fact that the amount of visitors were very large there, my parents didn't want to fight with the crowds. I suppose I kind of understand. I probably would have been miserable, too. And not only due to the throngs of people, but hearing my parent's complaints as well. So, I had to make do with my books, the TV shows, and the newspapers & magazines. Oh---and pretending! I used to pretend that I was a pioneer as I walked through the wooded areas and paths along the creek near where my cottage was located. Oh yes, I became a part of the Lewis and Clark expedition. I was a frontiersman fighting my way through the trees and bushes. I was a part of the Hamilton Family from my favorite book, The Cabin Faced West (click HERE). I was a cowboy riding with John Wayne out west. I was a warning rider with Paul Revere. And when my dad made a fire in our fireplaces (we had two), I was living in a cabin - sometimes with young Abe Lincoln, and other times with George Washington. I remember asking my mom to please cook a meal on the hearth so we could eat like they did in colonial times.
Nope lol.
And when we were lucky enough to go to Cedar Point in Ohio, the train ride through "Frontier Town" was my favorite part.
So I did make the best of it.
Years later, as an adult, long after the excitement of the Bicentennial had ended, my wife & I and our kids went to Greenfield Village, and we went often. I mean...a lot! And Crossroads Village in Flint (click HERE). And to reenactments as well. Then we became reenactors ourselves - now we we could live history! With my wife and our children, we also traveled to Gettysburg, Antietam, and Colonial Williamsburg. Not a lot, mind you, but reenacting filled in the gaps. And so did movies like Gettysburg, Gods & Generals, The Patriot, and many other films that filled my/our historical hearts (click HERE).
I often think about the Bicentennial and how I wish I could have taken part.
Well, I can't go back - go figure, right? lolol
However, now I get to take part. In 2019 I planned and hosted Metro-Detroit's own version of Patriot's Day - the Battles of Lexington & Concord reenactment. Oh, I know back east is where it's at, but that doesn't mean we still can't put together things here. I revel in America's past and how far we've come - yes, we still have a ways to go, and we'll get there. But I will celebrate how far we've come, in contrast to what too many kids are being taught. We do have cause to celebrate! We're 250 years old!
My biggest frustration is that such a major event as the Semiquincentennial has been "officially ignored" by many cities and states with little mention:
New York Post
Beloved Fourth of July parade for America’s 250th anniversary is axed
By Zain Khan
Published April 20, 2026
A beloved Fourth of July parade marking America’s 250th anniversary has been canceled after more than three decades due to crippling red tape.
The event in the Westchester neighborhood of Bakersfield was shelved last week due to the town and cops enforcing city permits and safety rules.
Organizers said the regulations, which included waste management, road closures and an expensive special application fee, made it too costly to continue.
It comes as Fourth of July appears to be under attack in California, with Long Beach’s popular display banning fireworks and SeaWorld being forced to switch the drones in San Diego.
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| A 50th anniversary plate for Greenfield Village & the Henry Ford Museum. Not Bicentennial or Semiquincentennial, but historical and an anniversary involving history. |
To be honest, I find that to be very sad. Anti-American-ism is running rampant, especially in California (but in a few other locations as well), and has been building up way before Trump became president, so it can't be blamed on him. In Michigan we have a Democrat governor, and, yet, we are celebrating fairly fervently. I am so glad that we here are showing our patriotism.
Here in Michigan we have had a good amount of historical reenactments, utilizing real and true American history programming, and, outside of our state, a national celebration of which will not be seen for another 50 years has been planned.
And so far most of us have been enjoying a celebration and not a condemnation as what seems to be so popular in our culture today. It was sure nice to hear that The Henry Ford (The Museum and Greenfield Village) plan to have a commemoration with the annual Salute to America event (click HERE), as well as having the Freedom Plane with historical American documents make a visit to the grounds of these two museums in mid-July.
They are also selling some pretty cool and unique souvenirs:
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I very much enjoy visiting and learning in the weaving shop at Greenfield Village. In fact, I found out that the handwoven towel in the patriotic red, white, and blue colors I purchased was made on the 18th century loom right there in that building by one of the Village weavers. Best of all, it was made for our country's 250th birthday celebration! So, after purchasing the towel, I brought it back to the weaver's shop and took a picture of it with the 18th century loom on which it was made. There it is---center left~~~
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| Another Village souvenir for America's Semiquincentennial is this postcard printed in the print shop. |
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| A few more items I purchased made at the Village Pottery Shop. |
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| Working on the Betsy Ross flag inside the Pottery Shop. By the way, the structure of the Pottery Shop was made in 1787. |
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| This is a nice little glass button also made at the Village in their glass blowing shop: "AMERICA 250 YEARS IN THE MAKING" Perfect gift for the kid with only a little money. |
Here's something that's very cool that I am very excited to see:
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| March 2, 2026: America’s Founding Documents Fly Out of Nation’s Capital For First Time On the Freedom Plane (CNN Headline from March 3) |
Washington, DC - - - - written by Alexandra Skores
— For the first time in United States history, several of the country’s founding documents will travel the skies to visit multiple cities on their own jet in honor of the nation’s founding.
“This initiative is all about bringing our history to life, capturing the national mood of celebration, and sending America’s big birthday party from the nation’s capital to the very heart of America,” said Monica Crowley, chief of protocol of the US.
The Freedom Plane took off Monday from a cold and windy Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport for its first stop in Kansas City, Missouri. The documents will travel to eight cities through August.
Among the documents: an original engraving of the Declaration of Independence; George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Aaron Burr’s Oaths of Allegiance and the Treaty of Paris which ended the American Revolution.
“Safety and security of the documents has been paramount from the point when this tour was first conceived,” said Jim Byron, with the National Archives while standing in front of the plane. “They stay typically in secured vaults in the National Archives, and they don’t come out very often.”
“This feels different this morning walking up to the airplane,” Boeing pilot Joe Seymour said before he took off in the plane. “You think about the names that are on these documents, the signatures, George Washington, John Adams, Alexander Hamilton, Benjamin Franklin. These are the founding fathers of the United States and so there’s a great pride that comes with that.”
The plane is a modernized homage to the Freedom Train of 1976, which took founding documents on tour around the country for the bicentennial.
“We know that not everybody’s going to be able to come and see (the documents) in Washington DC,” Byron said. “So to be able to take those right up to people’s cities and towns and communities is a once in a generation opportunity.”
Freedom Tour city visits below.
Kansas City, MO: National WWI Museum and Memorial: Friday, March 6 – Sunday, March 22
Atlanta, GA: Atlanta History Center: Friday, March 27 – Sunday, April 12
Los Angeles, CA: University of Southern California Fisher Museum of Art: Friday, April 17 – Sunday, May 3
Houston, TX: Houston Museum of Natural Science: Friday, May 8 – Monday, May 25
Denver, CO: History Colorado Center: Thursday, May 28 – Sunday, June 14
Miami, FL: History Miami Museum: Saturday, June 20 – Sunday, July 5
Dearborn, MI: Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation: Thursday, July 9 – Sunday, July 26
Seattle, WA: Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI): Thursday, July 30 – Sunday, August 16
You can bet I will be doing a blog post about this later this summer!
On a personal level, I have been working with historic Mill Race Village these past few years for celebrating Independence Day - the 4th of July celebrations there have been truly amazing. I am actually one of the people - pretty much the main person - in putting it all on, and for that I am very proud. In fact, you'll be seeing my post about the 2026 celebration in two weeks right here - same Bat time, same Bat channel!
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| A "cool"ectible I picked up at a Frankenmuth (Michigan) general store probably about a decade ago. I never opened the box - they've not ever been touched - and the Pez candy is still tucked inside. My friend, Carrie, gave this the name "The Pezidents"!! |
It seemed initially there was not nearly the excitement and pomp & parade as it was for the Bicentennial. However, as we get closer to Celebration Day, the excitement seems to be building up. For too long, when I would bring up the Semiquincentennial, most I spoke to were totally oblivious to it. I mean, by the time 1974 came around, virtually every American was well aware of the upcoming Bicentennial celebrations for 1976. I think due to the fact that the Vietnam War and the protests had ended, it seemed all were ready for some patriotic partying.
More of late I have been seeing people coming to their senses and seeing just what a great country the United States actually is. We've made mistakes, just as every country on earth has done from time immemorial, but we are - and have been - heading in the right direction. I know, that goes against the grain of today's thought, but if people would use their critical thinking skills, then I believe their minds would be open.
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| More need to think this way today. |
Many from Europe who have grown up being taught about evil ugly America are coming over for the World Cup tournaments and are finding a very different America than what they've been told by mostly the media. They are finding a wonderful country filled with beauty and people who are very welcoming and kind. A country with a rich history.
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| 2025 - -- - The beginning of the end of colonialism in America: the Battle of Lexington & Concord. |
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| 2025's "Two Lights for Tomorrow" The two lanterns lit for America's 250th from inside a second floor window in my two-story house. |
Well, though The Henry Ford forgot about the 250th in 2025 and did not participate, this year in 2026 they at least acknowledged the historic importance of April 18th and 19th of 1775 by posting on their page:
"Tonight is the 251st anniversary of Paul Revere’s midnight ride to warn Patriots of the British Army’s approach on the night of April 18, 1775. Revere famously devised a system of lantern signals from Boston’s Old North Church to advise how the British were traveling — one if by land, two if by sea.
"Tonight is the 251st anniversary of Paul Revere’s midnight ride to warn Patriots of the British Army’s approach on the night of April 18, 1775. Revere famously devised a system of lantern signals from Boston’s Old North Church to advise how the British were traveling — one if by land, two if by sea.
On the night of April 18, two lanterns were lit, signaling that the British were using the Charles River to approach Concord, Massachusetts. Revere and Billy Dawes rode by horse to Lexington then Concord to spread the word. Militias gathered in both cities, ready to confront the British.
In Lexington, the first shots of the American Revolution were fired and eight Patriots were killed. However, the militia in Concord stood ready and waiting. Hiding behind barns, houses and other buildings, they fired upon unsuspecting British soldiers, killing 73 before the army retreated to Boston.
The Patriots secured their first victory in the Battle of Lexington and Concord — a spark that ignited the rest of the Revolution."
Included was a picture of an old book about Paul Revere from 1907.
I like to think I may have had something to do with them paying tribute, for I did send them a note stating my disappointment in their non-participation in 2025.
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| TOP: My newest Paul Revere shirt BOTTOM: Me as Paul Revere at Michigan's own Lexington & Concord reenactment. |
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| I have my t-shirt, and proudly wear it! |
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| Michigan is getting in on the celebration. It is my understanding that all of the 50 states have set up commissions to help commemorate the event. |
More cool stuff: Boston Tea Party 250th Anniversary Tea Towel:
"Our original design, available exclusively at The History List store, commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party on December 16, 1773. It is printed on a 100% cotton premium flour sack towel with an off-white natural color. Cut, dyed, sewn, and printed in America."
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| This is my first collectible for the Semiquincentennial - America's 250th. It is a Tea Towel put out by the History List of Boston to commemorate America's 250th birthday celebration. |
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| This neat little gift tag (hilarious!) also came with the tea towel. |
But I didn't stop there - - - - - -
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| I purchased two more tea towels: in the center is for Paul Revere's Midnight Ride and the one on the right is of Independence Hall. |
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| The tea towel collection continues to grow... |
A closer look - - - -
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| The Old North Church~~ |
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| Independence Hall ~or~ the front facade of the Henry Ford Museum (click HERE) |
And then this was added not too long ago:
These tea towels are purely collectibles to me.
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| National Archives Museum in Washington D.C. |
And from the Oliver Pluff and Co, here are some things I picked up that are historically very cool.
Now, "Oliver Pluff & Company is a veteran-owned, Charleston, South Carolina-based purveyor of historic American beverages. The company focuses on connecting modern consumers to early American heritage by meticulously recreating the exact tea blends, coffee roasts, and spice kits consumed during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries."
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| "Bringing early American history to life by acting as storytellers. Their journey started by researching what teas were cast into the water during the Boston Tea Party of 1773." |
So this first photo above is a display of the types of teas that were dumped into Boston Harbor on the night of December 16, 1773 - otherwise what became known as the Boston Tea Party.
According to researcher and historian Benjamin Woods Labaree, it was all loose tea because the colonists had no taste for tea bricks, and tea bags were still 150 years in the future.
The three tea ships contained 240 chests of Bohea, 10 of Souchong, 15 of Congou, (all black teas), 60 of Singlo, and 15 of Hyson (both green teas), all produced in China. The teas mentioned here can be seen in this photo in the same order.
I love collecting Americana and American history almost as much as I enjoy "living" it.
Just because I'm not a coffee (or tea) drinker, doesn't mean I still can't collect:
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Coffee canister labeled 'Green Dragon' by Oliver Pluff & Co on a blue background Green Dragon coffee tin. (This is a) limited-Edition Paul Revere’s Ride Green Dragon Coffee Blend Commemorative Tin. For Oliver Pluff & Co's Green Dragon coffee, they have a wrap around photo as well as information about the Midnight Ride of April 18th/19, 1775 and the Green Dragon Tavern in Boston. |
"Coffee was first brought to North America in the mid-1600s with Jamestown settlers. Modeled after those in London, colonial coffeehouses in places like Boston and Philadelphia acted as a mix of cafes, inns, and taverns. They served as the central hubs for men to discuss commerce, politics, and Enlightenment ideals.
Tea was the premier beverage in the American colonies until Britain passed the Tea Act of 1773. Colonists boycotted British tea in protest of "taxation without representation". Following the events of the Boston Tea Party in December 1773, turning to coffee became a public display of colonial solidarity. Coffee successfully dethroned tea as the beverage of choice, permanently embedding the drink into American culture and future political landscapes."
Well, now, you just seen and read about their historic tea collection (and by clicking HERE you can read more about the Boston Tea Party), as well as a bit about coffee in colonial America.
And I've written previously about medicinal plants and herbs grown in the kitchen gardens of our colonial ancestors. Well, Oliver Pluff & Co now have available a Colonial Remedies Collection.
As stated on the card that came with these remedies:
"These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease."
"These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease."
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| Peppermint: "Quickens the occasional Absent Minde" Ginger: "Relieves the occasional upset stomach." Lemon Balm: "Makes the heart merry& joyfull." Cinnamon: "Warmes the body, relieves the weake stomacke." Lavender: "Warmes the body." |
Peppermint was soaked in water to extract the flavor for the health benefits.
Ginger roots were also steeped (soaked in liquid) for the same reason.
Lemon balm was made as a tea.
Cinnamon was also made as a tea.
Lavender probably has the most recognized aroma and was thought to be able to cure over 40 ailments. Like the others, it could have been taken as a tea.
These are the unique ways to bring history to life.
And helps us to understand the way it really was. I very recently read in a New York Times article (courtesy of a friend):
"In the 50 years since the bicentennial, the last major celebration of the nation’s birth, our knowledge of the American Revolution has radically expanded. The founding fathers remain the central figures. But since the 1970s, historians have uncovered the fascinating, dramatic lives of many other players whose contributions were previously overlooked or lost in the archives."
"In the 50 years since the bicentennial, the last major celebration of the nation’s birth, our knowledge of the American Revolution has radically expanded. The founding fathers remain the central figures. But since the 1970s, historians have uncovered the fascinating, dramatic lives of many other players whose contributions were previously overlooked or lost in the archives."
I think the tea and coffee can mesh well with this statement, don't you?
I make my own candles, but then sometimes one just has to purchase the more unique ones:
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| A Paul Revere candle~ |
Resistance Candles:
"Every jar is hand-poured in the USA using premium wax and high-quality fragrance oils—not cheap outsourced fillers. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t answer to shareholders. We answer to the spirit of 1776. Supporting small, American-made businesses is how we take back ground—economically, culturally, and spiritually."
This next few items is to show the things one can find at CVS or Hobby Lobby if one plans to have a family BBQ or something:
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| A plastic party cup bought for me by a friend. |
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| And what's a party without doughnuts! |
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| Coke/Coca Cola celebrated back in 1976, so why not here in 2026? |
Back to a candle holder.
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| A small candle holder - I with they would have put "Semiquincentennial" rather than "USA Bicentenary Anniversary" - it does have the 1776 - 2026, however. Bicentenary still means 200. Meh...it came from China... |
How about something similar to baseball cards...but, yet, not baseball cards...or are they...lol...
Pieces of the Past Relics Edition Cards explanation from someone who goes by ThatsRippinGood on Reddit:
"They have been around for years and they are legit. They specialize in autos (including jerseys, balls, etc), so for them to start faking things like original documents would ruin their reputation fast, which would be devastating to them since they are based entirely around products marketed as being authentic.
They absolutely cut up historic documents. The Presidents are quite easy, because there is a crazy amount of documents from them in circulation. Getting a Thomas Jefferson (or any other President) document is not difficult if you have the money.
Even if a document costs thousands to get, they can piece it out into a hundred-plus cards just for the actual writing on something like a short letter."
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| Samuel Adams - front |
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| Samuel Adams - back |
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| Another of Samuel Adams - front This is a more familiar image/painting |
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| Samuel Adams - back |
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| A 3-in-1---front John Hancock, George Washington, Ben Franklin |
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| 3-in-1---back |
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| President Washington and vice-president Adams - front |
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| President Washington and vice-president Adams - back |
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| Paul Revere - front |
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| Paul Revere - back |
Let's jump out of the Revolutionary times only for a quick moment and look into America's future from that 1776 perspective.
"The Erie Canal is a historic 363-mile waterway in upstate New York that connects the Hudson River at Albany to Lake Erie at Buffalo. Completed in 1825, it was the first navigable water route to link the Atlantic Ocean with the Great Lakes, effectively opening the American interior to trade and westward expansion."
I bought this card because I am fascinated on how the Erie Canal helped to build the western portions of our country - the Erie Canal helped to populate my home state of Michigan, so I thought it a worthy purchase.
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| Erie Canal - front With authentic dirt! Of course, this I can't prove...lol... |
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| Erie Canal - back - with historical information |
Cockades, typically rosettes or knots of ribbon worn on hats, originated in 15th-century Europe as military identifiers to distinguish allies from enemies. By the 18th century, they became strong symbols of political allegiance, nationality, and revolutionary fervor and were used in the American Revolution for rank identification.
Heather Sheen, whom I've not met in person (but we have been long-time Facebook friends), made the following patriotic cockades. She is the proprietress of Creative Cockades.
The following cockades are all those I have purchased from her:
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| From left~~~~~ ~250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington & Concord The beginning of the Revolutionary War. ~Descendant of an American Colonial I am a descendant of colonial Quakers who came to the colonies in 1710. ~Sons of the American Revolution (for my sons and grandsons) ~Daughters of the American Revolution (for my wife and eventually our daughter and granddaughters) |
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Cold-Cast Bronze 2nd Amendment Minute Man Tribute Sculpture The Second Amendment Commemorative Sculpture Handcrafted, hand-painted cold-cast bronze resin sculpture features a detailed Minute Man atop a base graced with the words of the 2nd Amendment. From the Bradford Exchange |
I am so happy, honored, and proud to actually be a part of the Semiquincentennial in numerous ways, but nothing like this:.
This past spring - spring of 2026 - Macomb Community College's Lorenzo Cultural Center really went all out and put together a program like no one else in Michigan did:
Chasing Liberty.
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| Celebrating America250 with a bang! This was the trifold flyer. |
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| This is what greeted those who stepped through the front doors of the exhibit area: an immersive display of our founding fathers and mothers. It was engulfing. |
So let's take a stroll around the exhibit area:
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| A close up on what I like to think of as the all-important vote declaring independence, but this is taken mostly from the painting depicting the signing. |
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| They themselves created the stand ups. |
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| Since I was a presenter there wearing period clothing, I bet I could have gotten a nice photo of me mixing in with the founders here - perhaps even sitting at or bending over the table. |
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| Here is another part of the display exhibit. |
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| George and Martha. |
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| There were also several large monitors throughout the exhibit area. so I captured when the video playing showed the Betsy Ross flag. |
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| There we are, me and Larissa, as presenters! At the top left side of this flyer. Macomb College did it right~ Being a patriot doesn't mean you are Democrat or Republican. It means you are an American. |
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| As you can see, there's a lot going on here in Macomb County to celebrate America's 250th. Check out the 2nd one on the list - Friday March 6! |
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| There we are 2nd from the very top (March 6) - Larissa & I doing what we do best! And friend Barb was there as well, teaching folks to write with a quill pen and ink! |
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| Look out, Martha...you got competition! |
How's that for an honor?
From Kayla Svisco - Manager of Cultural Programs & Exhibits, Lorenzo Cultural Center:
"This spring at the Lorenzo Cultural Center we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with our exhibit and programming series, Chasing Liberty. By examining the conditions of people before, during, and after the American Revolution, we aim to reflect on the ways in which the ideals and actions of the era shaped the lives of all.
Recognition of the Semiquincentennial of America is taking place across the country. There are many events and initiatives meant to honor this anniversary, including America 250MI. We are proud to be a part of this statewide calendar of recognized anniversary events. Chasing Liberty, which runs from March 2nd to May 2nd, features a schedule of over 30 programs, alongside our large-scale exhibit in Discovery Hall.
The exhibit features historical items on loan from other institutions including The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, the Detroit Historical Museum, the Romeo Historical Museum, private collectors, and more! See for yourself pelts and furs from the fur-trade era, which helped set the stage for the Revolution; muskets and pistols like those carried by American Patriots; a pair of silver candlesticks used by the family of founding father Alexander Hamilton; and even a fragment of the wooden coffin that once entombed our nation's first president, George Washington.
Our programming lineup is packed with diverse and exciting presentations! We welcome experts from across the country to present on topics ranging from the revolutionary economy and indigenous nations to the Declaration of Independence in the news, soldiers' foodways, and everything in between."
(From the Chasing Liberty program)
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| This was a handout booklet that gave greater details about the presenters... |
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| ...including Larissa & I! |
Daily life is our thing, and we've been doing this for well over a decade now. Between Larissa and myself, we have many years of historical research between us.
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| Larissa and I have been working in the presenting capacity for over a decade now, so we were quite honored to have been asked to speak on colonial daily life here at Macomb College. |
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March 6 I am absolutely tickled that we, my good friend Larissa and I, were a part of this extraordinary celebration! It is such an honor to be included in this wonderful celebration of America's birthday and history. And our presentation went to well - probably our best one yet. To begin with, we had over a hundred people show up to see us---possibly our largest audience. That's Larissa & I on the left. On the right we have Barb, who had quill and ink ready for folks to sign a personal copy of the Declaration of Independence. Together, the three of us gave the visitors quite a daily life history lesson! AND we got a standing ovation!! |
Click HERE for more photos and information about our presentation.
A few days later I returned as a member of the audience.
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| March 9 For "Revolutionary Encounters": Experience history come alive as Museum Theater actors perform short, interactive scenes within the exhibit on select days. Our exhibit comes to life as the actors from our Museum Theater program engage and interact with visitors in short, impromptu performances within the exhibit. |
And then, two days later, I got to see a wonderful presentation given by food historian Jeff Pavlik:
And then two days later (again) we heard about "Detroit in 1776" given by Bill Pringle, the curator of Collections at the Detroit Historical Society, where he helps develop exhibits and care for the society's extensive collection of artifacts:
Unfortunately, we had a powerful late winter windstorm and the wifi went out. But Bill held us with his stories and his passion. Before the wifi was knocked out of commission, I was able to capture a photo of one of his slides, there on the left.
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| March 11 For Jeff's presentation, Taste of Revolution: Soldiers’ Food in the War for Independence, we heard: Look into the pack of a Continental soldier and discover what food sustained him through the War for Independence. Explore the rations he received to wage war, and the many ways he had to improvise and and endure in the face of hunger and hardship. See how these soldiers used ingenuity to prepare their meager supplies, using the simplest of tools and makeshift equipment to cook their meals. |
And then two days later (again) we heard about "Detroit in 1776" given by Bill Pringle, the curator of Collections at the Detroit Historical Society, where he helps develop exhibits and care for the society's extensive collection of artifacts:
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| March 13 Bill gave a wonderful history of Detroit, going back to the beginning and stopping during the War of 1812. |
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| March 20 I came back again a couple days later. Michigan is very overlooked when it comes to the American Revolution, so Roger Rosentreter, who teaches courses on American history at Michigan State University, gave an interesting lecture on the subject. |
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| March 24 And then again, I went to another historical presentation at Macomb College's Lorenzo Cultural Center. This one was on Ben Franklin. |
Remember when I saw the "Revolutionary Encounters"?
Well, they expanded that presentation:
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| March 26 As you can see, I went to quite a few events there at Macomb College's Lorenzo Cultural Center, including one called "Patriot Ink," which was put on by members of the Museum Theater. This was much better than the similar presentation/performance I saw on March 9. It was an expanded version, in fact. This was very enjoyable hearing, in a play form, about John Dunlap and how he printed the very first Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. We then heard from Mary Katherine Goddard, who was the second printer commissioned by Congress (1777) to print the Declaration of Independence. Her copy, the Goddard Broadside, was the first to include the names of the signers. |
I mentioned I like seeing and collecting unique items.
How about wood and bricks --- ?
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Here is a bit of information on the next artifact.
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Wood and bricks?
Seriously?
Though I've posted about my bricks a few years back, let's take another look at 'em:
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The first two bricks in the first row (left going down) once were part of the road/street in the tiny city of Croswell (Michigan), from back in the horse and buggy days when they had brick streets; they were in a pile and some were beaten up pretty bad, but we were allowed to grab some, and at the bottom of that 1st row I decided to include a leftover paver from our own back patio my brother Tom and I built about twenty years ago. It is a piece of my own personal home history of my wife & our kids. The brick top middle is from "old Greenfield Village." At one time it was a part of the walk in front of the Henry Ford Birthplace after the house was brought to Greenfield Village - yes, it was once a part of that wonderful place of history. When the Village "updated" its infrastructure in the late 20th and early 21st century, many of the employees at that time were able to collect these bricks as they were removed from the walkways - - and a friend, knowing what a fan I am of the Village, was so very kind and gifted one to me. My sincerest thanks...! Now, this Greenfield Village brick is directly above my bicentennial brick from Massachusetts (can you guess which one that is?) that I found on eBay. What a cool and unique souvenir. The bottom brick in the center row was given to me as a retirement gift by a co-worker who knows how much I love history, and so she got me a brick from the Willow Run Bomber Plant (located a bit west of Detroit) that she was able to grab during the remodel. Construction of the Willow Run Bomber Plant began in 1940 and was completed in 1942, to manufacture aircraft, especially the B-24 Liberator heavy bomber (WWII). Willow Run was also the "Birthplace" of Rosie the Riveter - and now I have a historic brick from that plant! How cool! The top brick in the third row (on the right going down with the 10 holes) is from Oakwood Junior High School (Oakwood Middle School), the school that I attended back in the early-to-mid 70s, which was torn down about 15 years ago. I asked one of the workers for a brick and he grabbed one for me. The two bricks below are from the chimney of our former family cottage built in the early 1930s. For more brick details, see below: |
Who would have ever thought bricks could be historic?
Certainly not me, though my mind has been opened, for old bricks can be very historical. And I never thought I'd ever have such a collection.
Well, not an intentional collection.
But each one has a history and helps to tell a story. I mean, those bricks on the upper left that once paved the streets and walks of Croswell, Michigan are simply a part of American history, aren't they? Bricks were commonly used to pave streets and walks, going back, as far as research shows, to the early 19th century (research tells me that bricks were used to pave walks and streets in the colonies, along with cobblestone), and the idea carried on westward as America grew. The small City of Croswell was founded in 1845 (under a different name), and was incorporated as a city in 1881. This was more than likely around the time the brick were laid on the streets - perhaps maybe a little later, in the 1890s or the early 20th century, once automobiles became more popular. Some cement still sticks to them from when they were paved over with concrete.
To think Model Ts rolled over them.
Then there's the paver directly below the two Croswell bricks. My brother Tom and I worked together on making the patio that is still there at the back of my house. My brother is no longer with us, for he passed away in 2014, so this is an important part of my life, my history, which is why it is included here.
Now we go to the second row (center going down); you all know how much I love Greenfield Village, so to have a brick that I am sure I trod upon (along with millions of others) that was once a part of that favorite of all historical places is, well, let's just say "goosebumps."
As for the Bicentennial brick in the center:
tell me this isn't one of the coolest, most unique, and even most unusual Bicentennial collectibles you've ever seen: a 1776-1976 brick! It was advertised as a door stop (lolol)! I didn't hesitate to "Buy It Now" when I saw it on Ebay. With me it'll have a quiet, more gentle (haha) life, sitting on a shelf with other collectibles.
As far as the Willow Run brick center bottom, well, from what my friend (and giver of this gift), Serina, said she was able to "pick out bricks when they started part of the remodel" and that it "is related to Henry Ford (since) he opened the Bomber Plant."
Serina is also a part of the group of women who pay tribute to Rosie the Riveter, so this is also a Rosie brick!
The brick on the upper right came from a school where I attended back in the early-to-mid 1970s - Oakwood Jr. High School (and name changed to Oakwood Middle School). It was also my workplace as a custodian in the 1990s and into the 2000s, so it also has a personal history to it. The school was built in the early 1950s.
My family cottage chimney bricks are the last two bottom bricks in the third row.
My grandfather bought the place before I was even born, and I spent my entire youth there in Lexington (Michigan, on the banks of Lake Huron). I continued to visit the cottage well into my adult life, even after I married and had kids, so even my own family learned to love the place. When the cottage chimney suddenly came crashing down - no one was hurt, thank God - I grabbed a few of the bricks.
All of these bricks - bricks that help to tell a historical American story - will be kept until one day when I'm no longer a part of the living and my wife, kids, or grandkids can do what they wish.
As I've said, I don't pay attention to the younger generation telling me I must get rid of my stuff because no one will want them. It is my hope that my collection may be of some interest to my kids, grandkids, or even, one day in the distant future, my great grandkids. Maybe not everything I have, but I do have a feeling many of my items will be in our family for generations to come, for I have raised my kids with a deep commitment to family and our family history. Screw those people on the internet and in magazines who spew the psychobabble of telling us Boomers/Generation Jones to get rid of our stuff - things that make us happy. We're alive now, and enjoying the heck out of them!
Now for wood---more from the collection of Ken:
"Paul Revere Piece Of Wood From His House Encapsulated" CoA: (Certificate of Analysis, which is a document that verifies the quality, purity, and identity of a product or material such as what we have here). This item was authenticated by Todd Mueller Autographs and came with their Certificate of Authenticity. Todd Mueller Autographs has been BBB accredited, and that accreditation signifies a business's commitment to meeting the Better Business Bureau's standards for honesty, transparency, and ethical business practices, and it's a way for businesses to demonstrate trustworthiness to consumers.
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| I own a sliver of Paul Revere's actual house! Look in the upper right corner~~~
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Here is something else related to Paul Revere that is somewhat unique: A piece of a wood beam from the Old North Church in Boston. The Old North Church has undergone various renovations throughout its history and a beam from the original 1723 construction was obtained during one of the more recent preservation and restoration process. Again, Authentic pieces of original beams removed during renovations are occasionally available for purchase as historical artifacts.
That's what I have here.
Here is the front of the card:
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| You can see a chip from the original 1723 wooden beam toward the lower right. Here is the back of the card:
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I also have, in my own personal collection, a wood chip taken from an original beam from Independence Hall from the time when our founders, including Ben Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and John Hancock, debated and signed the Declaration of Independence!
One is a museum piece---the other two (including the wood chip from Paul Revere's House) I would say are worthy of being museum pieces, yet they are in my own collection.
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| Here is the way it was originally displayed and sold 50 years ago. |
Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was renovated in 1897-1898. During the renovation, 16 of the original beams holding up the floor on which the giants of the era debated the future of the 13 Colonies were replaced.
Rather than discarding the old beams, which felt the footsteps of the titans of the Revolutionary War era, project manager and superintendent of the Independence Hall, Samuel S. Reeves, retained possession of the original timbers. Over the years, most of the beams were sold and subsequently cut up into slivers, producing thousands of history cards and memorabilia that were sold during the Bicentennial in 1976 all over the country and in many major department stores.
This very cool memento was produced in 1976 to honor the 200th Anniversary of the founding of the USA. It is a very historical item to possess, and it comes in the original storage box.
So wood chips and bricks can be just as historical as anything else in museums.
In fact, at historic Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan (The Henry Ford), they even have a wood chip on display:
Now, some may comment on these items being only a chip of wood (or a brick), no matter where it came from. Ain't no big deal, right?
Well, inside the historic Wright Cycle Shop building, which has been relocated from Dayton, Ohio to inside the gates and walls of Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan, sits this very important building inside which Wilbur and Orville Wright designed and created the first successful powered airplane, the 1903 Wright Flyer.
Know what also has been placed inside?
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A wood chip, seen on the left, taken from a wing of the plane flown at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, on December 17, 1903. Included in this display is also a piece of fabric as well from that first airplane, and it now has a place of reverence and honor inside the Nationally known and respected Greenfield Village open-air museum. Very cool, huh? I feel the same about the wood chips in my personal collection. On the right in the above picture is a close up of the Independence Hall wood chip. |
Now the items in my own personal collection have nothing to do with the collection inside Lorenzo Cultural Center - I just wanted to allow readers to see and understand why such things are important, even though they're wood chips and bricks.
And yet there's more~~~~~
Here is something pertaining to the Father of Our Country:
Witness wood to witness tree:
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| History can be found in the most unique places and forms. Here is the plaque with information:
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| Here is a very unique item: a chip of wood from George Washington's coffin. And here's an explanation on how it came to be:
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Witness wood to witness tree:
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History where you least expect it. The tree we are standing next to is about 300 years old - just about as old as we are!!! |
I have always admired this tree, for I’ve seen it often. Like, in fact, each time I've ever visited Greenfield Village! But like most people, I never gave much thought to it other than it is a very old tree. Well, during a special “Arbor Day Witness Tree Walk in Greenfield Village” that I, sadly, could not attend, it was found that this oak tree is roughly around 300 years old!
Now how do they know that without chopping it down and counting its rings?
Well, as the folks that took the tour were taught (and Friend of Greenfield Village member, Bob Vincent, explained): “You can get a rough estimate of the age of a tree without cutting it down and counting the rings. The girth of a tree can be used to estimate its age, as roughly a tree will increase it’s girth by 2.5 cm (centimeters) in a year. So, simply measure around the trunk of the tree (the girth) at about 1meter from the ground. Make sure you measure to the nearest centimeter. Then divide the girth by 2.5 to give an age in years. A tree with a 50 cm girth will therefore be about 20 years old.
The rate of growth will differ according to what type of tree it is. Some types of trees, such as oak
and beech, will grow quite slowly, and so you should divide the girth measurement by 1.88. Pine
trees, however, are very fast growing, so you should divide the girth measurement by 3.13.
Other factors will affect the growth too, such as how close the tree is to other trees. If it’s on its own, it has the space to grow faster than trees in the woods. An average woodland tree will only increase its girth by about 1.25 cm per year.”
So, if this is truly the case, then this old oak tree can be claimed as a Witness Tree: “a tree that was present during a grand historical or cultural event of America. The trees got their name from being able to "witness" a historically significant event. Witness trees are centuries old and are known to be of great importance to the U.S. Nation's history.”
Did this tree “witness” a “grand historical or cultural event of America”?
Well…sort of…remember, with this tree being around the 300 year old mark, it is older than George Washington (b. 1732), and close to the same age as Ben Franklin (b. 1706)! It is of the same generation as John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Betsy Ross, Paul Revere...
That is old!
But what did it actually "witness"?
How about the building of Greenfield Village?
How about being gazed upon by the eyes of Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, President Hoover, Orville Wright, Shelley Winters, Walt Disney, Bert Lahr, Phyllis Diller, Mel Torme, Neil Armstrong, President Ford, Buzz Aldrin, Rosa Parks, Jay Leno, David McCullough (historic author), and numerous other great and famous Americans who either played a role in the building of this historic open air museum or were visitors here?
And before Greenfield Village?
It was around during the time of the Declaration of Independence, the Civil War, and perhaps Native tribes belonging mostly to the Algonquian-language family, especially the Council of Three Fires, the Potawatomi and related peoples (before European settlement in the area in the later part of the 18th century – just after the Revolutionary War).
Witness Tree indeed! Look around – you never know where you’ll find history.
So April 28 was my last day going to the Macomb College Lorenzo Cultural Center's "Chasing Liberty" exhibition.
From the presentation Larissa and I did back in early March until April 28 I went to a half-dozen presentations here.
The one on April 28 featured a wonderful talk about when the Declaration Of Independence Was News. The presenter authored a book of the same name as her presentation, so I made sure to purchase a copy.
Thank you Kayla & Macomb County Community College for doing something so wonderful that no one else around is doing. You celebrated America's 250th by bringing our history to the masses.
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| In glancing through the listing of events, this was one I knew I was interested in seeing. |
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| The big screen title. |
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| Ms. Sneff gave a wonderful presentation - I learned quite a bit that I did not know previously. |
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| The author/Presenter also gave the audience a look at how the Declaration was printed in local newspapers and broadsides. |
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| I did purchase her book and, of course, had her sign it. |
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| Here is my signed copy. |
My cocked/tricorn hat is off to Kayla and Macomb College and the Lorenzo Cultural Center for having such a displayed exhibit and presenters dedicated to teaching about America 250 years ago. This was amazing. To be honest, Lorenzo Cultural Center at Macomb County Community College deserved the Freedom Plane collection mentioned earlier in this post more than The Henry Ford, for they had an amazing spring celebration.
My opinion.
Although what I am about to show here has been in my collection for a number of years, it seems to fit with this whole "independence thing" we've been talking about (lol):
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| Imagine yourself being in Williamsburg, Virginia in later July of 1776, and this latest bit of news is printed in the Virginia Gazette. |
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| Here's a closer look... |
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| There it is, in all of its glory - news of a Declaration of Independence! |
After returning home from visiting the Lorenzo Cultural Center's wonderful America 250 (Semiquincentennial) History Display and presentations there this past spring, it was so very inspirational and patriotic that after one of my visits, patriotism overwhelmed me and I got an idea. I did a little vignette of my own here in my home: I have some cool Bicentennial whiskey decanters of four of the signers and three of the writers of the Declaration of Independence, so I set them in front of a framed poster of the Declaration's signatures. The three writers (from the Committee of Five) are John Adams, Ben Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson. The three men are also signers, along with John Hancock (who is also here):
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| Three of the writers and four signers: John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, John Hancock, and Ben Franklin. |
The decanters were found on Ebay - I have many more than the four shown here, but I chose those with a Declaration connection.
The History list has some very cool items as well, from t-shirts to replications.
I have purchased plenty of both, including the poster of the signatures here.
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| Here we see the signatures from the Declaration of Independence. |
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| Evening capture - I absolutely love photos by candlelight. |
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| This would make a wonderful shirt design! |
The excitement I felt all through that year back in 1976 is actually still with me, even after 50 years. The Bicentennial - affected me beyond almost anything else. I was just a teenager...and the current music of the time was my soundtrack: Led Zeppelin's Presence, The Rolling Stones' Black and Blue, Steve Miller Band's Fly Like an Eagle, and the live Joe Walsh album, You Can't Argue With A Sick Mind -- I wore the grooves out of those albums.
Yep----my spirit of '76 soundtrack. Well, I'm still listening to those albums all these many years later, though they're on CD now (no, I don't stream). ~(Don't ask me about the music of 2026 - not much of it is heard by these old ears lol)~
I would also skim through the local papers - Detroit News, Detroit Free Press - looking for anything Bicentennial.
Are we seriously 50 years later?!?
Since 2022 I have been posting a lot about the Bicentennial of 1976, and since 2014 I've been preparing for America's 250th.
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| I like this one the best. |
Yet I'm still not done:
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| Published by Benjamin Franklin in The Pennsylvania Gazette on May 9, 1754, the "Join or Die" cartoon is a segmented snake representing the American colonies, designed to urge colonial unity against the French & Indian allies during the French & Indian War. |
The rest I snapped in the evening using only candlelight.
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| It was repurposed during the American Revolution as a powerful symbol of colonial unity against British rule. It seems that it is more associated with the American Revolution now than for its original intent. |
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| This is me capturing the Semiquincentennial decor' at the place where I exercise. |
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| A few of these fine commemorative magazines made for a wonderful birthday gift for me from my (now adult) children! A couple of them I purchased on my own. |
And we can't forget the beer cans!
Yuengling Honors America’s 250th with Limited Edition Lager Cans and Packs
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POTTSVILLE, Pa. (January 21, 2026) – D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., America’s Oldest Brewery, announced today the launch of its Limited-Edition 250th Anniversary Lager cans and packs to commemorate America’s Semiquincentennial in 2026. Featuring a patriotic red, white, and blue design, the packaging honors 250 years of American resilience and independence, while spotlighting Yuengling’s own 197-year history as a family-owned American brewery. |
The new look, available beginning January 2026 in 12-ounce 12-pack and 24-pack cans of Yuengling Traditional Lager across the brewery’s growing 30-state footprint, also highlights Yuengling’s continued partnership with Team Red, White, & Blue (Team RWB), a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of America’s veterans through health and wellness.
“The 250th isn’t just about how America started, it’s about what has endured,” said Jennifer Yuengling, Vice President of Operations and Sixth Generation Brewer. “Our brewery has lived through nearly every chapter of this nation’s history, and we’re proud to celebrate America’s legacy of independence, perseverance, and pride right alongside our own.
“We don’t just talk about American history—we’ve lived through most of it,” said Wendy Yuengling, Chief Administrative Officer. “This design honors both our country’s 250th milestone and the generations of hardworking Americans who’ve kept our brewery, and our nation, thriving.”
~Samuel Adams is celebrating America250 in a big way~
American craft beer pioneer declares the return of the Brewer Patriot Collection, which features beers based on original recipes from the Founding Fathers; announces “Raise a Sam,” a campaign to bring people together to celebrate; and introduces the Star Spangled Variety Pack.
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| Brewer Patriot Collection |
“The independent spirit that shaped America also fuels Samuel Adams,” said Jon London, senior director, head of beer, Boston Beer Company. “Renowned for challenging brewing conventions and advancing craft beer, we lead with a focus on quality, innovation and character. This historic summer, we invite drinkers to honor the past and raise a glass to the future.”
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Samuel Adams Craft Beer Brewers Originally released in 2006, the limited-edition, four-pack bundle of colonial-era beers is based on authentic historical recipes enjoyed by the Founding Fathers. It is available for $17.76. |
Samuel Adams (often shortened to Sam Adams) is the flagship brand of the Boston Beer Company. It is named after US Founding Father Samuel Adams, who inherited his father's brewery on Boston's King Street (modern day State Street) and worked as a brewer or maltster.
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| 1790 Hard Root Beer: A tribute to the brand’s namesake and common colonial tavern fixtures. James Madison Dark Wheat Ale: Based on brewing advice that Thomas Jefferson offered to Madison. |
When founder Jim Koch started the Boston Beer Company in 1984, he launched his flagship beer, Sam Adams Boston Lager, with the specific intent to rebel against the mass-produced, domestic light beers dominating the 1980s market. Koch's vision was to reignite the independent spirit of America's founders by introducing rich, complex flavor profiles—sparking the modern American craft beer.
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| George Washington Porter: Drawn from a recipe preserved in the New York Public Library. No. 3 Ginger Honey Ale: Rooted in records of a rigorous 15-gallon homebrewing schedule kept by Thomas and Martha Jefferson at Monticello. |
To celebrate America's milestone, Narragansett Beer has released limited-edition "America 250" lager cans. This release revisits the iconic, archival Liberty Bell design originally produced for the nation's 1976 Bicentennial, perfectly bridging two historic national moments.
But this one includes yjr year 2026.
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| Founded in Rhode Island 1890 by German immigrants, Narragansett Beer has grown to be the number one selling beer in New England. |
Since I did not take very many photos back in 1976, this post is one way for me to make up for that. I am hoping to show my personal view and participation in our Nation's 250th. I like to think of it is a sort of time-capsule of this celebration.
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| One of my many Semiquincentennial shirts~~ This is a photo of the advertisement for the shirt. It's probably my favorite. |
I saw this advertised, so I grabbed one.
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| America 250th Birthday Garden Flag |
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| Another celebratory garden flag~ |
Family history and Revolutionary honors - very cool and also filled with honor..
I'd like to first pay a small homage to my wife's Revolutionary heritage:
Patty's patriot ancestor, Hugh Logan, served as Captain and was sent to Donnelly’s Fort in what is now Greenbriar County in West Virginia in 1776. He also served under George Rogers Clark as a private in the Western Army of the Revolutionary War. Clark was an American military officer and surveyor who served as the highest-ranking Patriot commander on the northwestern frontier during the Revolutionary War.
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| As a Semiquincentennial gift to my wife, I purchased for her a personalized garden flag. I love this! |
Hugh Logan became a prominent frontier leader and militia captain. Both Logan and Clark were vital figures in the settlement and defense of early Kentucky, fighting to secure the western frontier against British forces and their Native American allies.
Hugh Logan, according to records, was born before February 11, 1744, and died on December 25, 1816.
So, naturally, Patty is in the DAR - Daughters of the American Revolution.
Me personally, I've only done one line in my family tree and have had no such luck as to find a Patriot ancestor -- so far. There re numerous lines left to search. Given that my one family line has been living in the colonies since around 1710 (Bucks County, Pennsylvania), I believe my chances are pretty fair that I'll find one (or more!). Anyhow, due to Patty's Patriot ancestor, not only did she join the DAR, but our sons and grandsons are now in the SAR - Sons of the American Revolution - and I could not be any more proud! Our daughter and granddaughters will soon be a part of the DAR.
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| "We are celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation, not just on the Fourth of July in 2026, but throughout the Decade of Revolution..." Brooks Lyles |
My first encounter with the SAR - the Sons of the American Revolution - was back in 2017 at the Cass River Colonial Encampment, which took place up in Frankenmuth, Michigan. I spoke with the members there for a bit and got to know them.
Encounter number two occurred at Historic Fort Wayne in downtown Detroit the following summer where a few of us living historians took part in an member induction ceremony.
On July 31st of 2019 I was paid a visit by Chris White, who was President of the local Detroit Metro Chapter of the SAR, and he played another role in my third encounter with that wonderful organization.
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In 2019 my growing family and I were recipients of the wonderful flag commemoration from the SAR you see me holding up. I began collecting historic flags nearly two decades ago and have been purchasing them ever since. I fly them at my house frequently, which garners great conversations from passersby, and I especially love to fly them at our historical reenactments, which also is a great teaching opportunity. It was such an honor. |
"Today, I had the honor of presenting the SAR Flag Certificate to the Giorlando family of Eastpointe, Michigan. Ken and his family are living historians, presenting and teaching various periods of American history all over the midwest. On any given day, you may find one or more of the Early American flags on display at their home. Ken is a good friend of the Detroit Metro Chapter."
And then, in 2022, I was presented with the SAR's Bronze Good Citizenship Medal.
This was a total shock!
From Detroit Metro Chapter SAR President Chris White: "The Bronze Good Citizenship Medal is designed to recognize an individual who has made an important contribution to the community. Ken Giorlando has been a living historian for almost 20 years. (He) actively writes multiple history-based blogs including Passion for the Past...and Greenfield Village Open-Air Museum. He also maintains the Friends of Greenfield Village Facebook page.
Throughout the year you may run into Ken at Greenfield Village, Mill Race Village, Historic Fort Wayne, Cass River Encampment in Frankenmuth, Colonial Kensington, or many other places around the Midwest.
We first met Ken at Colonial Days at Historic Fort Wayne back in 2018 and have been following his exploits around the Midwest since then. Along with Larissa Fleishman, they hone their first-person skills as 18th century farmers. Their Year in the Life of a Colonial Farm (presentation) was the highlight of our 2019 annual meeting, and we look forward to their presentation today along with Bob Stark.
In recognition of Ken's ongoing efforts to keep history alive in our community, the Detroit Metro Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution is very pleased and honored to present him with the SAR Bronze Good Citizenship Medal."
I then was presented with the Bronze Medal along with the certificate.
You can have your college degree; this means so much more!!!
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Here is Chris White and I. I am dressed period due to the fact that Larissa Fleishman, Bob Stark, and I were going to give our Patriots Presentation to SAR members. This surprise for me occurred just before we went began our talk. Patty, Larissa, and Bob new all about it - but I was completely unaware - what a shock---what an honor! |
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| Here is the medal I received. Truly...I am touched. |
As I mentioned earlier, in 2024 our sons and grandsons were inducted as members of the SAR.
But I received something (unexpectedly) as well:
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| I was given the “Bronze 250th Anniversary American Revolution: medal and certificate! America 250!! |
You see, I am not eligible (so far) to join such an organization, but this – my third honor from the SAR – makes me feel better than having a college degree! I cannot tell you what it means to me to be recognized by the Sons of the American Revolution for my living history.
Thank you to Chris White and the Sons of the American Revolution – Detroit Metro Chapter.
In 2024, I had been asked by the Sons of the American Revolution to participate in the dedication ceremony for the historical marker honoring Revolutionary War Patriot Maxwell Thompson. Not just me, though, but other members of the Citizens of the American Colonies were welcome to come as well.
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All who were "dressed" to pay homage to Patriot Thompson Maxwell. Friends of the DMC SAR (Detroit Metro Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution) - (l to r) Charlotte Bauer, Ken Giorlando (moi!), Patty Giorlando (a DAR member and my wife!), and Pastor Norman Gerring, joined by Michigan SAR Honor Guard members Harry Rinker and Bill Sharp |
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| Another SAR honor was when we were a part of the Sons float for the St. Clair Shores Memorial Day parade. |
And so, as we eke closer to the 250th, a beautiful summer's day in mid-to-late June found us at the Carnegie Library in Howell, Michigan in front of a wonderfully receptive audience. Larissa, as Sybil Ludington, Bob, as Ben Franklin, and myself, as Paul Revere, did another of our Patriots Presentations, particularly for the Semiquincentennial.
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| Paul Revere, Sybil Ludington, Ben Franklin |
I cannot even describe what an honor it is for us to do such a presentation no matter the year, but for America's 250th makes it even more special.
Meet 25 individuals who played pivotal roles during the American Revolution. Listen to their stories, explore their actions, and encounter the artists who painted their portraits in this commemorative stamp issuance.
USPS AMERICAN REVOLUTION STAMPS
USPS rededicates its Figures of the American Revolution stamps
A special rededication of the Figures of the American Revolution stamps took place at the 2026 Boston World Exposition as part the stamp show’s honoring heroes theme day.
The Figures of the American Revolution stamps are in recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary being celebrated this year. The stamps feature 25 individual portraits of some of the people whose actions helped shape the American Revolution and establish U.S. independence.
The stamps were first dedicated during an interactive exhibit at the Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum on April 10.
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| Here is the complete sheet o' stamps I purchased from the local Post Office. |
So now let's get a close up:
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| Of course, I won't be using these. They will be safely tucked away. |
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| Here are the rest of our founders as stamps. |
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| "The U.S. Postal Service honors Phillis Wheatley—the first published African American poet—as the 49th issuance in its Black Heritage Stamp series. Released on January 29, 2026, these Forever stamps feature a portrait designed by renowned artist Kerry James Marshall." |
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| The special edition with an extra DVD worth of history. |
In my honest opinion, this set here wipes out the Ken Burns documentary by a long shot. I think many agree on how dull the Ken Burns set is. I do own it, but any Revolutionary War documentary that gives barely any time to Lexington & Concord, and totally forgets about such people as Phillis Wheatley, does not deserve any acclaim. His acclaim comes strictly from his name.
On the other hand, Legend & Lies: The Patriots is amazing, to say the least. To be honest, I don't give a hoot what anyone thinks of Bill O'Reilly personally or of his politics, none of which is injected here, because this series is a shining example of a docudrama done right no matter what role he played in its production.
It's difficult to find but well worth the time and effort.
So far in this celebratory year, I am having a ball!
Something to keep in mind:
The celebration isn't only about the Revolutionary War and the Declaration of Independence - it's about our history --- did you see that? our history --- which does include the Rev War, the War of 1812, the Mexican American War, the Civil War, the Spanish American War, The Great War (WWI), World War II, the War in Korea, Vietnam War, the Gulf War...and it's not only about wars---it's also about the electric light, the steamboat, the cotton gin, Blues, Jazz, and rock n roll, big band, country music, the Great Depression, immigration, the horseless carriage, the aeroplane, Jazz Music, Blues Music, Country Music, Rock and Roll Music, war protests, Civil Rights, man on the moon, Voyageur spacecrafts...America's 250th is about celebrating and commemorating all of this and so much more.
Please remember this as we move into these next few years.
Until next time, see you in time.
With this year being the Semiquincentennial - America's 250th birthday celebration - I have numerous blog posts you might enjoy checking out:
To begin with, here are a couple of postings I did consisting of links connecting you to a few of my Revolutionary War posts. Sort of an all in one package.
Links to the American Revolution - it's all here, and I think you'll enjoy searching through American history.
Revolutionary Greenfield Village - historic Greenfield Village is filled with original historic structures, some dating back over 400 years. This is the link of links!
Interested in Revolutionary War era flags?
Click HERE to see my collection of replications.
Click HERE to see my collection of replications.
HERE is the one I mentioned earlier in today's post about a special presentation my friend Larissa and I did together at Macomb College in March of 2026. This is a bit more in depth.
How about my collection of Paul Revere collectibles and a 250th commemoration - - click HERE
I've written a blog post about a year on a colonial farm HERE
And if you click HERE, you can see my reviews of American History Movies/TV series.
How about Michigan History? This post shows many original Michigan buildings built back before Michigan became a state back in 1837, all of which are still (mostly) standing in their original locations.
Click HERE to read about Michigan History Told Through Fashion: 17th Century Through the 20th Century.
Click HERE to read even more Michigan history: An Eyewitness Journey Through Michigan's Past: 1768
And click HERE for a Social History of Detroit, Michigan: pre-20th century
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