Alton to Commemorate 250th Anniversary of the First Reading of the Declaration of Independence at Lincoln Douglas Square.

On July 8, 1776, four days after the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, the document was read publicly for the first time in Philadelphia.

On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, the General George Rogers Clark Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), will bring that historic moment to life in downtown Alton.

The program will start at 4:30 pm.

SAR Color Guard: Members of the Sons of the American Revolution will present the colors in authentic uniforms of the American Revolution.

The 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, (the Patriotic part of the Knights of Columbus) will provide an Honor Guard and salute to the Pledge Allegiance.

Community Reading Begins at 5 pm: Local civic leaders, including Mayor David Goins, are being invited to this event, the Ninia Edwards Chapter, DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) will be in authentic clothing of the American Revolution as readers, along with members of the General George Rogers Clark Chapter, (SAR), and 4th Degree Knights of Columbus.

Historical Content: Brief remarks will be shared regarding the significance of the 1776 public readings and the simultaneous reading at our 5:00 pm as part of Sharing the Spirit of America reader in all fifty states and in all US Territories and Military facilities around the world.

This non-political event is free and open to the public.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for seating.