America 250

The signing of the Declaration of Independence was a pivotal moment in 1776, 250 years ago. It not only formed a new nation in the United States of America, but altered the history of United Kingdom and was the beginning of a new transatlantic relationship. To commemorate this watershed moment in global history, America250UK partners (including Kiplin Hall and Gardens) are hosting various events in 2026. You can find out more about events across the UK at america250uk.org

Kiplin Hall shares its origin story with the USA. Kiplin Hall was built by George Calvert, 1st Baron Baltimore, famed for the founding of Maryland in the USA. Kiplin Hall offers visitors a window into the past, exploring 400 years of history rooted in its Calvert origins. While colonies became a nation and declared independence, life at Kiplin Hall continued through the Calvert descendants and family members to the Crowes, Carpenters and Talbots. 

Find out more about the life of George Calvert during a special screening of the documentary film “Liberty of Conscience”. Filmed in location at Kiplin Hall and other UK venues. Screening at 4pm on Saturday 4th July at The Station Cinema, Richmond. 

Visitors to Kiplin Hall and Gardens can step into the past during our headline summer event America 1776 Live, on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd August 2026.  Experience life during the American Revolution (1765 – 1783). Kiplin Hall shares it origin story with Maryland in the USA via the Calvert family and the Barons Baltimore.  

At this living history event discover the sights and smells of 18th century cooking at our encampment on the west lawn. Costumed re-enactors will demonstrate a skirmish and cannon fire in replica military uniform of the period. Meet “loyalists” fighting to remain under British rule, and “patriots” who desire independence.   

During the revolution 13 British North American colonies rejected imperial rule and fought for their independence. Considered by some to be rebels and revolutionaries at the time, they formed the United States of America. Independence Day is celebrated in the USA on the 4th of July each year, remembering the signing of the Declaration of Independence, 250 years ago.  

It is important to remember that Native American people lived in North America long before European colonies were formed.  Around 2% of the population of the USA (around 6.6 million people) identify as Native American today.