America’s 250th Birthday Sparks Fresh Perspective on Historical Markers

As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, efforts are underway in various states, including South Carolina, to revive and reassess the historical narrative surrounding the Revolutionary War. Recognized for his guerrilla tactics, Francis Marion, often referred to as the Swamp Fox, is a prominent figure, but there are many untold stories and lesser-known individuals from that era deserving attention.

Molly Fortune, executive director of SC250, leads initiatives to restore historical markers and install new ones. These efforts aim not just to celebrate well-known figures but also to highlight the contributions of women, children, Native Americans, and African Americans, both enslaved and free. The aim is to create a more comprehensive understanding of the state’s role in shaping the nation.

This endeavor coincides with the national celebration, America250, which has motivated states to inventory and renovate historical markers across the country. The focus is on telling more inclusive stories that resonate with diverse communities, fostering a deeper connection to history.

However, not all historical markers have conveyed accurate or complete narratives. An NPR investigation in 2024 revealed that a significant percentage of markers, particularly those celebrating plantation homes, overlooked the impact of slavery, reflecting a historical bias that favors certain narratives while neglecting others.

Among concerning examples identified, a Michigan marker depicted a woman defending her home against Native Americans without acknowledging the historical context. Similarly, a Texas marker framed an enslaved man’s loyalty during the Civil War in a problematic light.

States like Colorado are conducting assessments of historical markers and planning to introduce new ones that represent a broader spectrum of backgrounds. As part of its 150th anniversary celebration in 2026, Colorado will feature 150 new markers showcasing women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Funding for historical markers usually comes from those who wish to tell a specific story, concentrating power in the hands of a few wealthy individuals. In Michigan, the cost of a large marker stands at $4,700, creating additional barriers for local communities eager to contribute to their historical narrative.

Fortune notes the economic benefits of heritage tourism in South Carolina. Investments in historical markers lead to increased traffic in rural communities, highlighting stories that encourage visitors to engage with local history and economy.

In Virginia, historical markers have begun to spotlight Green Book sites from the Jim Crow era, showcasing safe havens for Black travelers. The Washington State Historical Society is also re-evaluating its markers to ensure they do not erase Indigenous perspectives on historical events.

Many communities prefer adding context rather than removing markers. They wish to create new panels that encompass the entirety of the narrative without the implication of rewriting history. The aim is to offer a fuller picture of who has been included and excluded from the historical record.

Fortune emphasizes the necessity of confronting hard truths, as seen in the story of Henry Laurens, a key figure of the Revolutionary War whose legacy is tied to slavery. Acknowledging the complexities of history allows for a richer and more accurate understanding of the past.