Across the nation, nearly every city or town is having a big Fourth of July celebration.
Washington, D.C. will throw the most festivities, I think. Recently, they turned the National Mall into the Great American State Fair where all but seven states have exhibits to showcase their states. There is an avenue for entertainment, military tributes and other festivities, and even a small rodeo arena. The celebration is being called Freedom 250.
For 16 days our country will celebrate 250 years of being a nation of democracy. The last 250 years have not always been smooth. From the beginning, its people have witnessed threats through the years, but they have always come out stronger.
These strengths have always guided our nation back after wars, natural events and turmoil in our cities. From George Washington fighting the British to today’s threats overseas, America has stayed strong.
We’re fortunate we have only fought one war inside of our borders – the Civil War. Just as we healed from the Civil War, we have healed from all troubled times.
But now it has been 250 years since the time our forefathers signed the Declaration of Independence and established our nation.
I’m happy to see this nationwide celebration take place as our country seems divided at this point. Unfortunately, this is an election year and the division will show its ugly head again in no time.
Wyoming is fully involved in the celebration, with existing rodeos taking part and communities large and small hosting some kind of celebration.
Cheyenne and the state government are planning on having numerous events over the Fourth of July.
Wyoming’s colorful history boasts a lot of important events.
Yellowstone was the first national park in the U.S., and Devils Tower became the first national monument.
The Oregon Trail passes through Wyoming, providing numerous historical sites to visit.
Independence Rock is a major historical site which was mostly owned by the Sun Ranch for some 100 years. It was always interesting to climb around it and see all of the names and dates carved into it.
Take time during coming weeks to get to know the history of where you live – you will be surprised about the amount of history close by.
I also urge you to browse the internet for a complete list of events in your community and around the state, you will be amazed at what is planned for the next couple of weeks.
While driving around Wyoming, we hope the land heals from the ongoing drought and wildfires.
Be careful with the fireworks and respect private lands, but enjoy yourselves and learn the history of our state and our communities.
Have a great Fourth of July and Freedom 250 celebration.
Dennis Sun is the publisher of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup, a weekly agriculture newspaper, available online and in print.
