Florida Kicks Off Yearlong America250 Celebration with Jefferson Statue Unveiling

Monticello, Florida, United States - Florida is buzzing with excitement as the state kicks off a year-long celebration honoring the 250th anniversary of America’s independence. On July 2, 2025, Jefferson County was the stage for this momentous launch, featuring an unveiling ceremony for a statue of Thomas Jefferson, a key figure in American history. This statue, depicting Jefferson drafting the Declaration of Independence, now proudly stands outside the county courthouse in Monticello, setting the tone for a series of commemorative events planned for the upcoming year. As noted by WCJB, Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd highlighted the celebrations‘ purpose to underscore the Sunshine State’s pivotal role in the nation’s founding.

The event drew significant attention, with state leaders and local officials, including Rep. Allison Tant, in attendance. Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized that these tributes serve to honor the roots of the nation, contrasting Florida’s approach with that of other places where such monuments are being taken down. Byrd reminded everyone of the importance of reflecting on the nation’s history as the U.S. gears up for its semiquincentennial in 2026.

Future Plans and Statues

This Jefferson statue is just the first in a series of monuments dedicated to America’s founding fathers. According to Florida Governor’s Office, there are plans for five more statues to be erected in counties named after these influential figures, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and James Monroe, over the next year. Statues like those featured in Wikipedia, which highlight Jefferson’s role from a national perspective, serve as a historic backdrop for Florida’s local efforts.

DeSantis noted that these commemorations aren’t just about showcasing monuments; they reflect a commitment to civic education in the state. Under his leadership, Florida has invested heavily in programs like the Civics Literacy Excellence Initiative, which was designed to enhance civics education in schools, presenting a curriculum that has already engaged over 21,000 teachers.

This celebration also includes resources such as the newly launched America250FL.com, which aims to be a hub for information on Florida’s history and upcoming events related to the anniversary. The website is set to guide residents and visitors alike through a plethora of commemorative celebrations and educational opportunities throughout the year.

Looking Forward

With a bustling calendar of events lined up, the spirit of celebration is set to flourish. Floridians can look forward to an array of activities designed to educate and engage communities across the state, ultimately strengthening the connection to the nation’s founding ideals. As we journey through this year of reflection and celebration, it’s clear that Florida is honoring its place in the grand narrative of American history—one statue and one event at a time.