ORANGE CO. – This coming weekend, Orange County will participate in a special commemorative event, “Two Lights for Tomorrow,” to mark the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s historic ride on April 18-19, 1775. As part of this unique observance, two symbolic lanterns will be displayed in the highest windows on the south side of the county’s Historic Courthouse.
Robert Henderson, Orange County’s America 250 Connect Leader, invites all residents, businesses, and local government offices to join in this tribute to American history as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary of founding.
Henderson encourages residents to participate in the “Two Lights for Tomorrow” initiative by simply placing and lighting two candles or lanterns in their windows on April 18th and 19th. Area businesses are also being asked to display two lights prominently at their establishments to foster a sense of community and historical pride. Local government offices are encouraged to utilize symbolic lighting this weekend wherever possible.
This weekend’s event serves as a prelude to Orange County’s more significant commemoration of America’s 250th Birthday in 2026. The county’s America 250 committee, comprised of over 20 individuals representing various sectors, has been actively planning events, projects, and celebrations since late last summer to properly mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
Orange County’s year-long 250th-anniversary celebration will officially commence on Flag Day, June 14th, in historic downtown Orleans, coinciding with Indiana’s official kickoff. Plans for a colonial-style fair are underway, with attendees encouraged to dress in period costumes. The event, taking place on that Saturday in the town park square, will feature vendors, craft demonstrators, and information booths. A special flag-raising ceremony with reenactors in period dress and a suggested costume contest for children are also planned.
Other key events are slated to be held in Paoli, French Lick, and West Baden. Additionally, popular “Slices of Orange” community gatherings, similar to those held during the state and county’s bicentennial in 2016, are being planned for this coming fall in the Northeast, Greenfield, Stampers Creek, Orangeville, Southeast, and Jackson townships. Roger Moon and others are coordinating these efforts. Further details will be released later.
Recent planning meetings have involved brainstorming sessions by the steering committee to explore various ways to commemorate this significant historical milestone. The group aims to showcase Orange County’s rich history, early settlers, notable residents, historic sites, and museums through displays, exhibits, and programs leading up to and during the celebration.
Henderson also noted that the 175th Anniversary of the Orange County Courthouse will be highlighted during the 2025 happenings later this year, along with a special recognition of area veterans.
Two key projects are currently in development: planting a symbolic “Liberty Tree” in a prominent location, reminiscent of the gathering spots for early Patriots, and creating a special historic mural depicting Orange County’s Celebration of America 250.
The Orange County 250 committee will meet on May 1st at 6 p.m. at the Paoli Library. Individuals interested in contributing to the planning efforts are encouraged to attend.
An Orange County America 250 Facebook page will launch soon, providing details and updates on local planned events.
Indiana has also created a special website to keep residents informed and engaged in the planning process: https://www.in.gov/usa250/. State officials have also announced the availability of a new specialty license plate in 2025 to honor America 250 across Indiana.
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