The 1876 Centennial Exposition was held in Philadelphia, a major predecessor to America250 celebrations.
The exposition commemorated the 100th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence. It took place in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park and presented industrial, agricultural, scientific, and cultural exhibits from the United States and other countries.
Philadelphia’s role links the nation’s first centennial with its 250th anniversary. The city was also the location of the Second Continental Congress and the signing and adoption history associated with the Declaration. America250 planning has therefore repeatedly highlighted Philadelphia’s founding-era significance.