The historic Thomas Smith House is the place to be on July Fourth as we commemorate the United States Semiquincentennial:

Joining us will be members of the 25th Continental Regiment and Green Valley Homestead living history groups, who will model 18th century military and civilian life.

Musket drills, demonstrations of blacksmithing, open fire cooking, tinsmithing, basket weaving, flax spinning, and 18th century fashion and textiles will take place throughout the day.

Sheep, ducks, and rabbits will be present on the grounds, and younger visitors will be able to partake in 18th century children’s activities.

Other activities will include:

• An archeological dig on the grounds

• A display of artifacts marked for the association’s America250 time capsule. Visitors are encouraged to provide letters to future Agawam residents describing 21st century life for inclusion in the time capsule, which will be sealed later this year and not opened for another century.

• A public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Those wishing to read a portion of the Declaration of Independence should contact the association by email at 1855@agawamhistory.org by 1 July.

• A community bell ringing at 2:00 pm. Attendees are encouraged to bring a bell of any sort to join in.

This event is free and open to the public.

It is supported in part by a grant from the Agawam Cultural council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.