Barnesville's America 250-Ohio Celebration
The Village of Barnesville is proud to announce that it has officially become a recognized community of America-250 Ohio, a statewide initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The year 2026 will mark the 250th birthday of our nation, and this historic milestone provides a unique opportunity to celebrate our country, our state, and our local communities. America-250 Ohio is a multi-year commemoration designed to highlight Ohio’s unique role in our nation’s past, present, and future, while encouraging communities across the state to share their stories and contributions.
America-250 Ohio is guided by the Ohio Commission for the U.S. Semiquincentennial, which was created through an update to the Ohio Revised Code. Per Ohio Revised Code (149.309), the Commission’s charge is: “To plan, encourage, develop, and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and the impact of Ohioans on the nation’s past, present, and future.” The Commission hopes to see all 88 Ohio counties participate in this once-in-a-generation celebration.
On January 12, 2026, the Village of Barnesville officially joined this statewide effort through the adoption of a Ordinance passed by Village Council (View Ordinance 4036). By becoming an America-250 Ohio community, Barnesville is committing to recognizing and sharing the stories, people, and events that have shaped our village and contributed to the broader American story over the last 250+ years.
Participation in America-250 Ohio opens the door for local events, educational opportunities, historical recognition, and community celebrations. This initiative gives Barnesville an opportunity to reflect on our past, celebrate our present, and inspire future generations.
Residents are encouraged to keep an eye out for special events and announcements as the Village of Barnesville and Barnesville Area Chamber of Commerce works toward celebrating America-250. More information about America-250 Ohio and participating communities can be found at america250-ohio.org.
Together, we look forward to honoring this historic milestone and showcasing the important role Barnesville plays in Ohio’s—and America’s—story.
Barnesville America-250 Ohio Committee
The Barnesville America 250–Ohio Committee is hard at work planning a series of exciting and meaningful events to honor our nation’s 250th anniversary. The committee is dedicated to creating celebrations that are both fun and memorable, while also developing thoughtful ways for our community to reflect on and celebrate America’s history and heritage — as well as proudly highlighting and preserving Barnesville’s own rich history and traditions.
- Jake Hershberger, Mayor
- Robyn Miser, Council Member
- Lindsay Dowdle, Council Member
- Jill Hissom, Barnesville Area Chamber of Commerce
- Derek Deal, Barnesville Village Employee
Barnesville America-250 Ohio Sponsors
Become a sponsor of the Barnesville America 250–Ohio celebration and be part of this historic community event! We offer a variety of sponsorship opportunities designed to showcase your business and support our efforts to honor our nation’s 250th anniversary while celebrating Barnesville’s rich history and heritage. Sponsors will receive recognition, including having their logo featured on our official website.To learn more or become a sponsor, please contact the Village of Barnesville at 740-425-1976 or 740-425-3444, or email AM250@barnesvilleohio.com.
Current Sponsorship Opportunities Available
More information coming soon!
From Philadelphia to Barnesville: Celebrating 250 Years of the American Story
The story of the United States begins long before independence, rooted in the aspirations of settlers seeking opportunity, religious freedom, and self-government. In 1776, leaders of the thirteen colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, formally breaking away from British rule and asserting that all people are created equal. After years of struggle in the Revolutionary War, the new nation secured its freedom and later established the U.S. Constitution, creating a government built on democratic principles, checks and balances, and individual rights. From those fragile beginnings along the Atlantic coast, the country expanded westward, growing in both territory and population, shaped by waves of immigration, innovation, hardship, and resilience.
As the nation grew, communities formed across the frontier, including towns like Barnesville. Founded in the early 1800s and named after settler James Barnes, Barnesville reflects the broader American story of westward expansion and small-town determination. Like many Ohio communities, it developed through agriculture, industry, and strong civic traditions. Ohio itself became a key part of the young republic, contributing soldiers, leaders, and industry that helped shape the nation’s progress.
In 2026, the United States celebrates America-250, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This milestone invites Americans to reflect not only on famous moments and figures, but also on the local stories that built the nation from the ground up. Places like Barnesville remind us that America’s strength has always come from its communities—ordinary citizens working, serving, and striving together. America-250 is both a celebration of how far the country has come and a renewed commitment to the founding ideals first declared in 1776: liberty, equality, and opportunity for all.
Planned Projects & Events
More Coming Soon!