Established in 2020 to commemorate Virginia’s role in the 250th anniversary of American independence, the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) aims to form a more perfect union by educating Virginians about their history and civic duty and sharing diverse narratives that capture Virginia’s complete story and role in shaping the nation.

Virginia’s semiquincentennial is not simply about our past. How we commemorate our founding also impacts our present and our future. This is why the Virginia 250 Commission has chosen “To Form a More Perfect Union” as our theme. Our founders knew there was more work required two hundred and fifty years ago, and work remains to be done. Our overarching goals are:

to educate Virginians, including our students, about our history, our founding ideals and our system of government;

to engage every community and all regions in events that tell a complete story; and

to inspire Virginians to commit to American citizenship.

 
“Virginia’s History is America’s Story” is more than a tagline on marketing collateral. Virginia has always been the crucible of our nation, from our founding to the present day. The first colonists arrived in Virginia. The first encounters with indigenous peoples occurred here. The first ships carrying the enslaved landed here. The first representative government was formed here. The famous speeches, critical debates and major events that led to the movement for independence and sparked a revolution happened here. The Fincastle Resolutions, the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were all written by Virginians.

Because of the leadership role Virginia has always played in our nation, VA250 will lead the nation in the celebration of our semiquincentennial.

Annual Report

Access the annual executive summary of the interim activity and work of the Virginia American Revolution 250 commission.

2023 Annual Report

2022 Annual Report