Ceremony in the works for United States’ 250th anniversary

MATTAPOISETT — Plans are already underway in Mattapoisett for the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

In recent weeks, volunteers have been helping the Mattapoisett Cemetery and Memorial Advisory Committee clean up the two cemeteries owned by the town: Hammond Cemetery and Barlow Cemetery.

According to chair of the Cemetery Commission Ray Hanks, the Hammond Cemetery will play host to a national recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States gaining independence in 2026.

Hanks said the Massachusetts and Rhode Island contingents of the Sons of the American Revolution will be present at the event, dressed in full Revolutionary War wardrobe.

The Sons of the American Revolution is an organization made up of direct descendents of Revolutionary War soldiers that promotes patriotism.

The attending Sons of the American Revolution will fire off muskets and march through a field neighboring the cemetery.

Prior to recent cleanups, Mattapoisett’s town-owned cemeteries hadn’t been tended to in years, according to Hanks.

Hanks said it was great to see the turnout and participation for the cleanups.

“I try to be a good steward of the land,” said Hanks.

Volunteers raked leaves and removed fallen branches from the cemetery grounds.

More cleaning will take place in future months as the group continues to prepare for the 250th anniversary ceremony.