Canonsburg dedicates America 250 marker in Town Park
Canonsburg officials celebrated America’s 250th birthday with a new historic marker in Canonsburg Town Park during a red, white and blue-colored event on Saturday morning.
The black granite marker, which was furnished by Gaydos Monument Company, is one component of a packed itinerary of patriotic events taking place across Washington County this year in honor of the United States’ semiquincentennial.
More than 75 people attended the dedication ceremony in front of the park’s pool house, many sporting colorful clothing with American flag motifs.
Mayor David Rhome noted that in the two-and-a-half centuries since the birth of the U.S., the world has changed completely.
Canonsburg’s streets that once held horse-drawn carriages and streetcars now accommodate electric vehicles, and one-room schoolhouses have been superseded by modern, high-tech high schools where students learn on laptops.
“The progress has been overwhelming, but appreciated,” Rhome said.
State Sen. Camera Bartolotta said the history of Canonsburg has been woven into the broader history of our country, noting how the small borough has produced icons like singers Perry Como and Bobby Vinton.
“It reminds us that history is not only found in our capitals and on our monuments, but in small towns like Canonsburg,” she said.
Washington County Commissioner Chair Nick Sherman said Canonsburg residents have played an important role in the success of the U.S. military across history, and that the borough is a “shining example” for the entire country.
Rhome said to properly commemorate such a momentous anniversary, people should consider what they can do to improve the lives of future generations.
“We need to think of the future we want to create,” he said. “Our efforts will help our children.”