MSOG, Inc.
PO Box 215
Ashland, MA 01721-0215

U.S. 250th Anniversary

For the U.S. 250th anniversary (Semiquincentennial) in 2026, major genealogy initiatives are underway, including partnerships between America250 and organizations like FamilySearch and Ancestry to help Americans discover their, roots. Key efforts focus on "Together, We Build America's Story," with local, 250th-themed, guided research experiences occurring nationwide throughout 2026. 

Key National Genealogy Initiatives

  • FamilySearch & America250 Collaboration: FamilySearch has partnered with the official America250 commission to provide themed research experiences. Throughout 2026, select FamilySearch centers and affiliate libraries will offer guided research to help users discover their "place in American history".
  • Ancestry’s "The Stories of US": Ancestry.com launched a campaign featuring 250 family stories that shaped the nation, focusing on providing historical context and digitizing military records from the Revolutionary War through modern conflicts.
  • Lineage Societies (DAR & SAR):
    • The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) are official partners of the America250 Foundation.
    • They offer workshops to help individuals identify "Patriot Ancestors"—those who provided military, civil, or patriotic service during the Revolution.
    • Special focus is being placed on identifying Patriots of Color and diverse contributors to the founding era. 

The Massachusetts 250 (MA250) campaign, running through 2026, commemorates the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution by highlighting local history and family legacies. Key resources for genealogy include the American Ancestors (NEHGS) (especially with the 10 Million Names Project), the Massachusetts Historical Society, and local reenactments like Bunker Hill. 

Key Massachusetts Resources & Events (2025-2026):

  • American Ancestors & NEHGS: Features the "10 Million Names Project," focusing on pre-1800 African American genealogy, as well as the 2026 American Stories, American Lives Gala.
  • MA250 Initiative: The state-led campaign focusing on local, overlooked, and revolutionary stories, including the "Henry Knox Artillery Trail" and Bunker Hill 250th.
  • Boston 250: Focuses on the Siege of Boston (1775-1776) with major events scheduled around July 4, 2026.
  • Massachusetts Historical Society (MHS): Offers resources and digital content, including "1776: Declaring Independence" opening in March 2026.
  • Local Historical Societies & Museums: Organizations like Historic New England highlight local families and figures, such as the Otis family.