As the county and the country gear up to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Lehigh County Historical Society is planning some fun-filled educational events. Check back throughout 2026 to get updates on events and programs.
Lehigh County Historical Society Events for the Semiquincentennial
Frederick Douglass reenactment to convene at the Historic Lehigh County Courthouse
Saturday, November 1, 2025 at the Historic Lehigh County Courthouse
On Saturday, November 1, 2025 Lehigh County Historical Society will host a reenactment of the Abolitionist Frederick Douglass’ historic visit to Allentown in 1870. Douglass delivered an oration at the historic Lehigh County Courthouse to a packed audience of 500+. We will commemorate that event with an hour-long oration of Douglass speeches by a leading Douglass scholar and reenactor.
“History Expo” Semiquincentennial 250th Anniversary
Saturday, May 23, 2026 at the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum
On Saturday, May 23, 2026, Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum will host a “History Expo” featuring local historical societies, Revolutionary War reenactors and music, tours of Trout Hall, and a concert by the Allentown Band to wrap up the celebration. There will be family-fun and educational events scheduled throughout the day.
Our Fall lineup of lectures will showcase Colonial America and the American Revolution
Our Fall 2025 lecture season will open October 2025 with programs and lectures concentrating on the American Revolution and Colonial America all in preparation of July 4, 2026.
Educational and Outreach Programs for the Semiquincentennial
Lehigh County Historical Society has created three new programs to celebrate the Semiquincentennial. These programs are available virtually, a free, to qualifying schools. The programs can also be adapted for adult programing. For more information please view this brochure or call 610-435-1074.
The Declaration of Independence
•Why is the Declaration of Independence important?
•What is the Declaration of Independence?
•Who wrote it – it wasn’t only Thomas Jefferson.
The Journey of the Liberty Bell to Allentown
•Did you know the famous Liberty Bell was once hidden in Allentown?
•How did the Liberty Bell get its name?
•Where is the Liberty Bell now and why do we still cherish it?
Lehigh Valley Women During the American Revolution
•How did local women contribute to American Independence?
•Who were these local women?
•Why don’t we know as much about 1700s Lehigh County women as we do Lehigh County men?