In honor of the US Navy’s 250th birthday on Oct. 13, please join Idaho Public Television and the Idaho State Historical Society in one of these North Idaho communities on Oct. 13, 14, or 15 to honor the intertwined histories of America’s maritime heritage and Idaho’s unique naval legacy. These events will celebrate America250, the semiquincentennial celebration of the country’s founding, through film, discussion, and community engagement. Each evening features a tailored program that elevates both local and national stories of service, innovation, and patriotism.
"Anchors of Freedom: Celebrating America250 and America's Sagebrush Navy"
Monday, Oct. 13, at 6:30 PM - The Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre in Moscow
Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 6:00 PM - The Panida Theater in Sandpoint
Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 6:30 PM - The Coeur d'Alene Public Library
Register here to attend these free events
America250 is a nationwide, nonpartisan initiative working to engage every American in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This effort, from now through July 4, 2026, is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.
Idaho joins in this nationwide celebration with America250 in Idaho. While the American milestone is historic, Idaho’s celebration takes on a unique character, focusing on the power of generational stories and connections that span seven generations. As the state gears up for this momentous occasion, it embraces its rich history and the profound importance of passing down traditions, values, and experiences from one generation to the next.
The three nights of "Anchors of Freedom: Celebrating America250 and America's Sagebrush Navy" in North Idaho focus on the 250th birthday of the US Navy and Idaho's role in naval history. Each night’s program will include remarks from members of the America250 in Idaho Advisory Council and Task Force, elected officials, and members of the USS Idaho Commissioning Committee, followed by a film screening of the forthcoming documentary America’s Sagebrush Navy and segments from Ken Burns’ forthcoming documentary series, The American Revolution. Following the program, the audience will be invited to participate in a Q&A session and other opportunities for dialogue. Proceeds and awareness raised during this signature America250 event will support the ongoing development and effort to distribute Idaho’s Sagebrush Navy to national audiences.
These events are brought to you by a coalition of cultural, educational, and media organizations, including Idaho Public Television, the Idaho State Historical Society, the USS Idaho Commissioning Committee, the University of Idaho, the Museum of North Idaho, the Coeur d’Alene Public Library, and the West Bonner Library District, among others. "Anchors of Freedom: Celebrating America250 and America's Sagebrush Navy" serves as a key event in the state’s America250 celebration plans. If you have questions about how to get involved with America250 in Idaho, please visit america250.idaho.gov or contact the America250 in Idaho Task Force Vice Chair at 208-514-2311.