Submitted by Susan R. Waide
(June 10, 2026) — The “East Haddam Celebrates America’s 250th” Committee is seeking volunteers to help bring history to life during a special community celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. At this event there will be a historic reading and community signing of the Declaration of Independence, live music, historic activities for all, food trucks, and more. All who wish to help commemorate this historic milestone and make history come alive for future generations are welcome to volunteer or attend this event.
East Haddam Celebrates America’s 250th: Historic Declaration of Independence Event will take place on Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the historic First Church Meeting House, 499 Town Street (Route 151) in East Haddam.
Volunteers will help create an engaging and memorable experience for visitors while honoring the nation’s founding and East Haddam’s rich Revolutionary War heritage. Volunteer opportunities include:
- Event Guides
- Parking and Logistics Assistance
- Historic Table Monitors
- Children’s Activity Assistants
- Adult Historic Activity Monitors
- Water Station Volunteers
- Food and Beverage Area Monitors
- Set-Up and Clean-Up Crews
- Floating Volunteers for general assistance
In keeping with the spirit of 1776, volunteers are encouraged, but not required, to dress as their favorite Revolutionary-era figure, or to wear something red, white, and blue.
“This event offers a unique opportunity for East Haddam residents and the community at large to become part of history while helping showcase East Haddam’s important role in America’s founding story,” said Todd H. Gelston, East Haddam’s First Selectman and Chairman of the East Haddam Celebrates America’s 250th Event. “Whether you can volunteer for a few hours or the entire day, your participation will help make America’s 250th celebration in East Haddam a success.”
For more information or to volunteer, please contact the East Haddam First Selectman’s Office at (860) 873-5021 or email admin@easthaddam.org. Volunteer meetings are held weekly, but attendance is not required. Volunteer forms are available at the East Haddam Municipal Complex, East Haddam Libraries, and Post Offices.
The East Haddam Celebrates America’s 250th Committee is dedicated to commemorating the nation’s Semiquincentennial through educational programs, community events, historical interpretation, and public engagement activities that honor East Haddam’s contributions to the American Revolution and the continuing story of the United States.
