In 2026, our nation will mark an extraordinary milestone: 250 years since the founding of the
United States of America. As we celebrate America’s Semiquicentennial, I am taking time
to reflect on the start of our wonderful nation and look forward to the future we are building
together.
To celebrate this landmark for our country, I drafted House Resolution 664. This resolution
highlights the founding of the United States of America and Illinois’ contributions to the nation’s
development, culture, economy, and defense through the efforts and sacrifices of our citizens.
Illinois has played an instrumental role in America’s story. Before we became an official state
in 1818, the prairies of Illinois helped shaped the young country’s growth. Illinois has been the
home of many revolutionary leaders, from Abraham Lincoln to Ronald Reagan. Generations of
Americans have called this state ‘home,’ and I’m proud to live in this state.
Throughout this celebration, I encourage you and your family to get involved – take part in local
events, explore Illinois and American history, and reflect on how we got here and what it means to
be part of this great country.
Illinois has been a trailblazer form the beginning…
1st Cell Phone
1st Skyscraper
1st McDonalds
1st Blood Bank
Our Local American Legends
Robert Wadlow, the Alton Giant and tallest person ever recorded (Alton)
Mannie Jackson, trailblazing University of Illinois athlete and longtime owner of the Harlem Globetrotters (Granite City / Edwardsville)
Miles Davis, legendary jazz trumpeter and composer (Alton)
Ezekiel Elliott, NFL running back (Alton)
Jayden Ulrich, Olympic Track and Field Athlete (East Alton / Wood River)
Harry “The Horse” Gallatin, basketball legend (Roxana)
General Andrew Goodpaster, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO (Granite City)
What does America 250 mean to you?
Share your story—how our nation’s history, progress, and promise have shaped your life, your community, or your hopes for the future.
Share here.