Which 1976 Bicentennial event began on April 1 in Wilmington, Delaware?

The American Freedom Train tour began on April 1, 1975, in Wilmington, Delaware, as a major event leading into the 1976 Bicentennial.

The traveling exhibition used a 26-car train filled with American historical objects and cultural displays. Its launch in Wilmington started a 21-month journey through the 48 contiguous states. The train eventually stopped in 138 cities and attracted more than seven million visitors.

Although the tour is often remembered as a 1976 event, it began in 1975 so that communities could participate before the anniversary date itself. The train reached many locations in 1975 and completed the rest of its itinerary in 1976, ending in Florida late that year.

It was also distinct from the 1947–49 Freedom Train, which carried original founding documents and toured the country after World War II. The 1975–76 American Freedom Train was created specifically to commemorate the Bicentennial and used three restored steam locomotives over different parts of its route.