In commemoration of the American Semi-Quincentennial, or 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America, the Pope County Board of Commissioners adopted Resolution 202620 at its June 16, 2026 regular Board meeting.
The commemorative resolution acknowledges and celebrates the contributions and sacrifices of citizens made to this day, and encourages participation in semi-quincentennial activities to remember the past, celebrate the present, and commit to the future of Pope County, the State of Minnesota, and the United States of America.
A copy of the full original resolution can be viewed at this link, and the full text of the Resolution follows here:
POPE COUNTY RESOLUTION 202620
Commemorating the Semi-Quincentennial of the United States of America
WHEREAS, on July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming the thirteen American colonies to be free and independent states and establishing the foundation of the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, the principles expressed in the Declaration of Independence – including liberty, equality, representative government, and the inherent rights of all people – have guided the Nation through two hundred fifty years of growth, challenge, sacrifice, and achievement; and
WHEREAS, the State of Minnesota was admitted to the Union as the Thirty-Second State on May 11, 1858, following the establishment of the Minnesota Territory in 1849, and since that time, generations of Minnesotans have contributed to the development and prosperity of the State; and
WHEREAS, Pope County was established by the Minnesota Territorial Legislature on February 20, 1862, and was organized for county government in 1866, and has since grown into a thriving rural community distinguished by its agricultural heritage, natural resources, business community, civic institutions, and strong tradition of public service; and
WHEREAS, the year 2026 marks the Semi-Quincentennial, or 250th Anniversary, of the founding of the United States of America, providing an opportunity for reflection upon the Nation’s history and renewed commitment to its future; and
WHEREAS, the enduring success of the United States, the State of Minnesota, and Pope County has depended upon the dedication and sacrifices of residents who have strengthened their communities through hard work, volunteerism, entrepreneurship, education, faith, public service, and civic engagement; and
WHEREAS, elected leaders, public servants, educators, first responders, community organizations, and an informed citizenry have contributed to the preservation of democratic institutions and the advancement of the public good; and
WHEREAS, generations of military veterans and members of the Armed Forces have courageously defended the freedoms and constitutional principles upon which the Nation was founded, and their service and sacrifice deserve the enduring gratitude and recognition of all Americans; and
WHEREAS, the Semi-Quincentennial presents an opportunity for all residents and visitors to learn from history, honor those who came before us, celebrate the achievements of the present generation, and inspire future generations to continue building strong communities and a strong Nation;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Pope County Board of Commissioners hereby commemorates the Semi-Quincentennial of the United States of America, recognizing the 250th Anniversary of the Nation’s founding and honoring the history, ideals, and institutions that have sustained the American experiment in self-government; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board acknowledges and celebrates the contributions of the people of the United States, Minnesota and Pope County whose vision, labor, leadership, and service have shaped our communities and strengthened our County, State, and Nation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board expresses its profound appreciation for all veterans and members of the Armed Forces whose service has preserved the liberties enjoyed by present and future generations of Americans; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board encourages all residents, civic organizations, businesses, and visitors throughout Pope County to participate in educational, cultural, civic, and commemorative activities associated with the Semi-Quincentennial; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board calls upon all who live in and visit Pope County to remember the past, celebrate the present, and commit to the future of Pope County, the State of Minnesota, and the United States of America, ensuring that the principles of liberty, responsibility, citizenship, and opportunity continue to guide future generations.
ADOPTED by the Pope County Board of Commissioners this 16th day of June, 2026.
Paul Wildman, County Board Chair
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the above is a true and correct copy of the Resolution duly passed, adopted, and approved by the Pope County Board of Commissioners on the 16th day of June, 2026.
Kersten Kappmeyer, County Administrator
Pope County, Minnesota