Which city launched the American Freedom Train’s 1975–1976 Bicentennial tour?

Wilmington, Delaware, launched the American Freedom Train’s 1975–1976 Bicentennial tour.

The train began its journey on April 1, 1975, in Wilmington. Its departure marked the start of a 21-month traveling exhibition that would visit communities throughout the contiguous United States before ending its public run in December 1976.

The choice of Wilmington connected the commemoration with Delaware’s important place in early American history. Delaware was one of the thirteen original states and was the first state to ratify the United States Constitution, doing so on December 7, 1787.

Philadelphia is a common mistaken answer because it hosted major Bicentennial events and is closely associated with the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. Washington, D.C., also hosted prominent national celebrations. However, the train’s documented starting point was Wilmington, and its route later continued through cities across the country.