The 1975–76 American Freedom Train began its Bicentennial tour in Wilmington, Delaware.
The American Freedom Train was a 26-car traveling exhibition assembled to commemorate the 200th anniversary of American independence. It opened its national journey on April 1, 1975, in Wilmington before traveling through the 48 contiguous states. The tour continued across 1975 and 1976, ending on December 31, 1976.
Wilmington’s role can be confused with Philadelphia’s because Philadelphia is closely associated with the Declaration of Independence, Independence Hall, and other Revolutionary-era landmarks. The train’s documented starting point, however, was Wilmington, Delaware. Delaware also has a prominent place in early U.S. history as the first state to ratify the Constitution.
The Freedom Train is a useful predecessor to America250 because both commemorations use nationally distributed programs rather than concentrating every event in one historic city. The train brought artifacts to local audiences, while America250 organizes events and initiatives across the country.