Bucyrus and communities across Ohio are marking the 250th anniversary of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Towns are joining a statewide and national movement for a synchronized reading on Wednesday, July 8 at 6:00 PM.
- Assemble at 5:45 for welcome & introductions
- Reading begins promptly at 6:00pm on the Crawford County Courthouse steps
- Back-up location (in the event of inclement weather): Bucyrus City Hall lobby
Historical Background: On July 8, 1776, Colonel John Nixon gave the very first public reading of the Declaration of Independence to a gathered crowd at the State House Yard (now Independence Square) in Philadelphia.
Nationwide Participation in 2026: Communities, local historical commissions, libraries, and museums nationwide will host local recitations to let citizens participate in an interconnected, coast-to-coast reading event.