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Celebrating 250 years of Charlotte’s independence

May 20, 2025 marks 250 years since the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence was reportedly signed into Charlotte’s revolutionary history.

May 19, 2025 • 
Maria Adnado
A black and white ground marker commemorating the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence.

According to the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, the first known celebration of Meck Dec Day happened in 1825.

Photo via Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

Tuesday, May 20, marks 250 years since the reported signing of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence. The long-debated piece of history declared Charlotte’s independence from British rule at least one year before the US Declaration of Independence.

Can you see the original document? In short, no. The original records were allegedly lost in a fire in 1800. However, the text was published in 1831.

A bronze statue showing a man in colonial garb atop a horse.

A well-known statue outside of Uptown depicts Capt. James Jack carrying the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence to Philadelphia.

Photo via WCNC

To commemorate this day in the county’s history, consider attending these events:

  • Meck Dec 250 | Tuesday, May 20-Feb. 2026 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Charlotte Museum of History | $10 | This new exhibit looks to the past through documents, artifacts, and memorabilia from the Revolutionary period.
  • 250th Anniversary of Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence: Commemoration Ceremony | Tuesday, May 20 | 12-2 p.m. | Independence Square | Free | The streets at Trade and Tryon will be the backdrop as re-enactors, bands, and cannons fire as the Meck Dec is read for the masses.