America’s 250th Celebrations Continue in the ‘Burgh

By Paula Green

We recently marked America’s Semiquincentennial on July 4. Even though the fireworks are over, the 250^th anniversary celebrations are still going strong. On July 25, a plaque dedication took place at Fort McIntosh Park in Beaver Borough, hosted by the General Anthony Wayne Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution.

The ceremony paid tribute to Revolutionary War Patriots with colonial-era music and a concert by the Beaver Valley Choral Society, joined by a drum corps. Captain Robert Mercer gave the keynote address, and members of the Sons of the American Revolution also spoke on behalf of our brave soldiers. The Daughters of the American Revolution gave a heartfelt presentation to honor the descendants of Patriots who served at Fort McIntosh. This fort played a significant role during the American Revolution and later became the first permanent post of the U.S. Army.

If you’re interested in learning more about our military founders, the Sons of the American Revolution meet on the second Saturday of each month from September to May in Rochester. The group decorates Revolutionary War soldiers’ graves on Memorial Day, sponsors a student poster contest, and works to raise awareness about Revolutionary War patriots.

In Allegheny County, another special 250^th celebration was held at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum in Oakland. On Saturday, August 15, the venue hosted “The First Regiment Comes Home” military band concert. The event was sponsored by Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust Inc., the Fort McIntosh and Pittsburgh chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and PHASE 4 Learning Center.

The concert included a full performance by The Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps. The Pittsburgh Youth Chorus also took the stage, and author Mark Miner gave historical presentations about the First Regiment and Fort McIntosh. Larry Richert from KDKA served as the master of ceremonies.

The First Regiment military band has played at every presidential inauguration since John F. Kennedy’s in 1961. They have also represented the United States at the Olympics and the Super Bowl. This band is known worldwide as one of America’s most celebrated musical groups.