Is Charlotte considered the birthplace of America? Technically, it could be.
May 20, 2024 marks the 249th anniversary of the signing of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence.
The Mecklenburg Historical Association says elected representatives met in Charlotte to discuss the tightening of Great Britain’s grip on the colonies. A rider interrupted discussions with reports from the battles of Lexington and Concord. Residents decided enough was enough and declared themselves free of the Crown.
The document contained five resolutions, outlining the Crown had “trampled” on the rights and liberties of American patriots. The document was read from the courthouse steps at noon on May 20, 1775 before later becoming known as The Mecklenburg Declaration.
Celebrations happen every year to commemorate this significant day in the county’s history:
- MeckDec Day | Saturday, May 18 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | The Charlotte Museum of History, 3500 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte | $5-$10 | Celebrate, learn, + reflect on the legendary Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence.
- MeckDec Day Event | Sunday, May 19 | 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Hopewell Presbyterian Church, 105000 Beatties Ford Rd., Huntersville | $0-$16 | Hear people’s thoughts on the separation from royal rule + enjoy a barbecue lunch.
- Annual MeckDec Day Commemoration | Monday, May 20 | 12 p.m. | The Square at Trade and Tryon | Free | A re-enactor dressed in colonial garb will read the Declaration of Independence as debates and cannon fire ring in the heart of Uptown.
