Commemorating America’s 250th Anniversary in Franklin Township, Somerset County, NJ

As the United States prepares to celebrate 250 years of independence in 2026, Franklin Township invites residents, visitors, and history lovers to join us in commemorating the revolutionary spirit that helped build our nation — starting right here, where on July 4, 1778, a thunderous feu de joie and cannon fire lit the sky over the Raritan River during the nation’s first official Independence Day celebration.

Franklin Township will commemorate key milestones in American history spanning from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to General George Washington’s Farewell Orders to the Continental Army. These local and national moments reflect the enduring legacy of liberty, sacrifice, and unity that shaped both our community and the nation.

Franklin 250 Committee Chair - Bob LaCorte

Email- Franklin250@franklinnj.gov

📍Franklin Township: A National “Victory Town”

Franklin is proud to be recognized as one of fewer than 200 Victory Towns in the nation — communities that witnessed the historic 700-mile march of American and French troops to Yorktown, Virginia, in 1781. This trail, known as the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route, surrounds Franklin’s borders and is a powerful reminder of the town’s place in securing America’s freedom.

In 2026, Franklin and other Victory Towns will "party like it's 1781" — marking their unique roles in the story of America's founding through public events, educational experiences, and historic preservation.

 (L-R) Richard Onderko of Manville, Charlie Carley of South Brunswick, Patricia Farmer of Lawrence, Robert Uhrik of Rocky Hill, Phil Kramer of Franklin, and Ray Heck of Millstone Borough.

(Courtesy of The National Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route Association)