In 2016, Indiana will celebrate its 200th birthday. Hamilton County will begin its kickoff to the state’s Bicentennial celebrations with a flag-raising ceremony on Dec. 11, which is Statehood Day.
The event will begin at 11:55 a.m. with attendees gathering about 10 minutes earlier at the Noblesville Visitors Center, 839 Conner Street in Noblesville. The ceremony itself will take place at the Hamilton County Judicial Center Steps on 8th Street in Noblesville.
Hamilton County commissioner Mark Heirbrandt will speak as the Indiana state flag is raised. In addition to government officials, 1812 re-enactors will also be at the event. The flag raising commemorates the 199th anniversary of the day President James Madison signed the act admitting Indiana as the 19th state.
Additional events will be announced regarding the Bicentennial for 2016, but this will serve as a kick-off of sorts. Statewide, municipalities, historical groups and other organizations will host events throughout the year, including festivals, landmark improvements and more. A torch will be delivered that travels throughout Indiana cities, including Carmel. The Indiana Bicentennial Commission reports that there are nearly 700 registered projects, with more than half designated Bicentennial Legacy Projects.
