PORT ANGELES — Clallam County is prepping to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States approaching in 2026.
Washington state officials have been urging local communities, including Clallam County, to join the nationwide America 250 initiative.
During a county commissioner work session, Washington 250’s Lorraine Ralston outlined ways for local governments, organizations, and residents to participate. Among other things, communities are encouraged to rebrand existing events next year to align with the celebration’s themes: We the People, The Power of Place, and Sharing History.
“The themes really reflect the fact that Washington wasn’t part of the United States in 1776. We’re aiming to tell our story as a state—our chapter of the American story, if you will—while specifically connecting with local communities, local histories, and local voices,” said Ralston.
Clallam County Parks, Fair and Facilities Director Don Crawford says they plan to incorporate the 250 theme into next year’s fair theme.
The county will also take part in a national kickoff event, Two Lights for Tomorrow, on April 18. It commemorates Paul Revere’s ride and the “two if by sea” lamps in the Old Church of Boston. Crawford says they will light the courthouse bell tower in Port Angeles that night with two blue lights.
“We have electrical outlets up in the bell tower, along with a variety of shop lights we can install—so lighting can be set up there pretty with no extra effort,” said Crawford.
The North Olympic Peninsula History Center is leading the local efforts for the overall commemorations next year and is planning a series of events locally to mark the occasion. Those will be announced later.