In 2026, the United States of America marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This national milestone offers an opportunity to reflect not only on the nation’s founding, but on the local histories that give it meaning. At the Leelanau Historical Society, we believe local history is the foundation of a national history. Local experiences and actions influence broader state and national stories, just as what happens at the national level shapes life in local communities.

The Leelanau Historical Society staff, along with museum professionals across the nation, have had this milestone on our minds for years. For the past five years, we’ve been working together behind the scenes to ensure this historic moment is commemorated thoughtfully and intentionally. A phrase staff keep coming back to, “Little Finger, Big History” reflects how Leelanau’s local stories are deeply connected to the broader American narrative. We want to make history feel personal, engaging, and inclusive—helping everyone find their place in history via our exhibits, programs, workshops, and services.

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“As history professionals and citizens, we should approach 250th anniversary activities with a spirit of empathy and humility; with love of country and a desire to rekindle civic friendships; with respect for historical expertise and the perspectives of our fellow community members; with a forthright recognition of our obligations to our fellow citizens; and with a shared commitment to the common cause of an inclusive, democratic society.”

— John R. Dichtl, American Association of State & Local History

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Leelanau County Celebrates America 250 – Logo Statement

This logo will serve as a unifying visual mark for Leelanau County’s America 250 efforts and will appear on exhibits, printed materials, educational resources, digital platforms, and promotional items throughout 2026. Its use reflects participation in the national commemoration while emphasizing Leelanau County’s local history and how it connects to the broader American story.

The flowing water elements and silhouette within the “0” honor the peninsula’s distinctive shape and the enduring relationship between land, water, and its stories. Water is a common thread throughout Leelanau County’s history, shaping how and why people came to this region. As a peninsula in the Great Lakes region with more water than land, Leelanau’s waters provided routes for travel and trade, sustained communities, and continues to influence life here today.

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2026 Schedule of Special Events & Programs

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A Look Back: Leelanau’s Bicentennial Barn

Leelanau County has marked America’s major milestones in its own unique way, the last being during the Bicentennial in 1976. As the 250th Anniversary of the nation approaches in 2026, efforts to save these murals are underway.

The new owners of the Bicentennial Barn are on a mission!

“The barn exterior paint and art that was last completed in 2005 is faded and peeling. The vision is to repaint the barn starting in September of this year, ahead of next year’s 250th independence anniversary, with the original art and potentially another mural of a Leelanau County map on the south barn side, similar to the original 1976 mural of County.

The plan also includes painting of the roof in order to extend its life (like the Poor Barn project completed in 2021). The homeowners would like to rekindle the spirit of community involvement with the barn mural restoration; similar to the original project completed just prior to the Bicentennial in 1976.“

Visit their website to learn more about the project, volunteer, or become a sponsor!
https://leelanau1776barn.org/

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