As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Historic Congressional Cemetery, in partnership with the D.C. Sons of the American Revolution and the National Cemetery Administration, invites the public to join us on Saturday, July 4, 2026, for a special America250 commemoration honoring Elbridge Gerry and the Revolutionary War veterans memorialized at Congressional Cemetery.

Founding Father and Revolutionary War Patriot Elbridge Gerry is the only signer of the Declaration of Independence and the only vice president buried in Washington, D.C. His historic gravesite at Congressional Cemetery remains an enduring place of national memory and reflection, linking the nation’s founding generation to the present day.

Beginning at 10:00 AM, the ceremony will feature remarks from representatives of Historic Congressional Cemetery, the D.C. Sons of the American Revolution, and the National Cemetery Administration. The program will include the presentation of colors, the National Anthem, the playing of TAPS, unveiling a new interpretive sign, and a wreath and flower laying at Gerry’s grave in honor of his service to the founding of the United States and the enduring legacy of the Revolutionary generation.

Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to join a guided walking tour highlighting the graves of Revolutionary War veterans interred at Congressional Cemetery. Along the route, participants will help place commemorative flags at veterans’ gravesites, ensuring that the stories and sacrifices of these early Americans continue to be remembered as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of its founding.

The event is free and open to the public. If you plan to attend, we ask that you please RSVP using the link below.