February 12th, 2026
Cecil Historical Society Observes 250th With Two Great Challenges
Cecil County Historical Society Launches 250th Anniversary Challenges
By Cecil TV News
As the nation prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the Historical Society of Cecil County is inviting residents to step into the past and explore local landmarks through a pair of interactive history challenges.
During a February 9 interview on Cecil TV, Historical Society President Paula Newton outlined the organization’s plans to mark the milestone year. The centerpiece is the “America 250 Passport Challenge,” a countywide activity that encourages participants to visit historic sites across Cecil County and document their journey.
Participants will have until December 4 to complete the challenge by visiting 27 designated locations, taking a selfie at each site, and turning in their completed passport at the Historical Society. Those who finish will receive a commemorative slate coaster featuring the county’s original seal.
Passports are available at local library branches, the Historical Society, the county tourism office, and the Fair Hill Nature Center. A printable version is also available online.
A special children’s version of the challenge requires visits to just 14 sites and rewards participants with a Junior Historian certificate.
Newton said the goal is not only to celebrate the nation’s anniversary but also to spotlight Cecil County’s rich local history and support other nonprofit heritage organizations.
In addition to the passport challenge, the Historical Society is launching a weekly “wooden nickel” hunt. Each Thursday, volunteers will hide a wooden nickel somewhere in the county and post a photo clue and riddle on the society’s Facebook page.
Participants who collect ten nickels will earn a free Historical Society membership. The person who gathers the most by December 4 will receive a T-shirt and gift card.
Newton also encouraged residents interested in history to consider volunteering. The Historical Society is open Mondays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
With two challenges, dozens of historic destinations, and a full year to participate, organizers hope the anniversary will inspire residents to rediscover the stories woven through Cecil County’s towns, churches, parks, and museums.
