Where did the American Freedom Train begin its 1975 Bicentennial tour, a precedent for America250 celebrations?

The American Freedom Train began its 1975 Bicentennial tour in Wilmington, Delaware.

The train launched on April 1, 1975, beginning a 21-month journey through the 48 contiguous United States. It carried historic objects and exhibits, bringing the Bicentennial celebration directly to communities rather than concentrating it in one national capital.

Its planned tour covered 25,388 miles, or about 40,858 kilometers. The train became one of the best-known nationwide projects associated with the 200th anniversary of American independence and provides a useful comparison for America250’s emphasis on participation across the country.

Wilmington can be confused with Philadelphia because both cities are closely connected with the American founding. Philadelphia hosted major Bicentennial events, including the 1976 national celebrations, but it was not the Freedom Train’s launch city. The train started in Delaware before traveling through the country.