The Western Illinois Museum (WIM) joins the City of Macomb and Visit Unforgettable Forgottonia in a day-long celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on Saturday, July 4th.
As part of this historic anniversary, WIM invites community members of all ages to gather on Our Front Porch from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. for an afternoon of music, family activities, homemade pie, and a community reading of the Declaration of Independence.
The celebration also features some of the traditions that have long been part of Independence Day gatherings. Guests can enjoy a pie walk to Stars & Stripes Forever, sample homemade pies from treasured family recipes, and listen to patriotic favorites performed by a brass quintet of Western Illinois University music students. Throughout the afternoon, visitors will have opportunities to visit with neighbors, enjoy refreshments, and celebrate this milestone in our nation's history.
Children and families will find activities throughout the afternoon designed to explore the story of Independence Day in engaging and creative ways. Volunteers will read books inspired by the Declaration of Independence and the Revolutionary War era and lead hands-on activities, including making decorative ribbon pins. Through stories, crafts, and conversation, children of all ages can explore the ideas, values, and challenges that shaped the founding of the United States.

1:00 p.m. – Community Reading of the Declaration of Independence and children's books inspired by the Declaration and Revolutionary War era
1:30 p.m. – Patriotic Music by a Brass Quintet of Western Illinois University Music Students
2:00 p.m. – Pie Walk
2:30 p.m. – Patriotic Music by a Brass Quintet of Western Illinois University Music Students