The American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) is behind “Two Lights For Tomorrow: A Nationwide Call to Action” to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s ride and the signal that warned of the British advance. On April 18-19, everyone is encouraged to display two lights in the windows of homes, statehouses, and local communities.
The initiative seeks to illuminate the spirit of collaboration and collective action that characterized the nation’s founding. By displaying two lights, participants will contribute to a visual representation of unity and shared purpose.
“Why does Paul Revere’s ride, 250 years later, still matter? It matters because the spirit of people coming together, helping each other, resonates profoundly today, said Cheryl Wilson, VA250 Executive Director. “’Two Lights for Tomorrow’ isn’t just about recalling ‘one if by land, two if by sea’; it’s a deeply personal statement during this 250th anniversary.
In Virginia, lanterns will be lit from April 11th to April 22nd, the 250th anniversary of The Gunpower Incident in Williamsburg. Some states will be displaying their lights the entire month of April. In other states, a day of service will follow the lantern lightings as a reminder that the idea of serving one another has been part of our national identity since that very first day 250 years ago.
How to get involved
–Place two lights in your window on April 18-19.
–Share your photos and stories on social media using #VA250 and #TwoLightsForTomorrow.
–Encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to join in.
VA250 was established by the General Assembly in 2020, VA250 serves to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the Independence of the United States in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Photos of the Mary Washington House in Fredericksburg courtesy Veronica Allison
