A crowd gathered at the Moore County Courthouse in Carthage Thursday morning to celebrate America’s 250th birthday – the founding of the United States and the Declaration of Independence.
The Alfred Moore Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution organized and hosted the celebration. The festivities included unveiling a Revolutionary War Patriots Marker dedicated to the men and women who achieved American independence 250 years ago.
Charters of Freedom also attended to perform a time capsule ceremony. The time capsule will stay sealed until its scheduled opening date of September 17, 2087.
The festivities started with the Presentation of Colors, led by the Sandhills Chapter Color Guard of the North Carolina Society Sons of the American Revolution. The crowd remained standing as they were led through the Pledge of Allegiance, the American’s Creed, and the National Anthem, performed by the Golf Capital Chorus.
The Golf Capital Chorus also performed several other songs; their rendition of “My Girl” brought smiles to the courthouse steps on the hot morning. Everyone stood and sang along as they finished with “God Bless America.”
Dr. Sandy Stewart, the president of Sandhills Community College, had the honor of giving the Commemorative Address. He reminded those gathered that freedom isn’t free, and for some local families, the cost was very personal. He stated that “our heritage isn’t just a gift, but a responsibility. We must preserve it for future generations like those that came before us.”
The unveiling of the Revolutionary War Patriots Marker Dedication was accompanied by a floral tribute and commemorative musket volley in front of the courthouse.
The Moore County Commissioners followed up by joining the representative from Charters of Freedom at the podium to present their additions to the time capsule. Those items included a commemorative coin, a USB of a land use plan, church bulletins, pottery pieces, a Westmoore School paw print sticker, golf balls, and a hockey puck. The commissioners chose items they felt best represented our community: education, teamwork, faith, heritage, and tradition.
Commissioner Nick Picerno stated that our nation was founded on faith, family, and freedom. He said he hopes these values will still exist when the time capsule is opened years from now, and that they will be even stronger.
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~ Article and photos by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Megan Hall.
