In which city were the first commissioners sworn in for America250 planning?

The first United States Semiquincentennial commissioners were sworn in in Philadelphia for America250 planning.

The ceremony took place at Independence Hall on November 16, 2018. Philadelphia was chosen because Independence Hall was the site of deliberations and adoption of both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. The location connected the commission’s modern planning mission with two central events in American history.

The initial commission included private citizens, members of Congress, and federal officials. Its organizing meeting began the long process of planning and coordinating the national commemoration, which would culminate in the 250th anniversary year of 2026.

Philadelphia is one of several cities with an important role in America250 activities. Boston, New York City, and Charleston, South Carolina, are also identified in the authorizing legislation as historically significant leading cities. The swearing-in location, however, was specifically Independence Hall in Philadelphia.