05/20/2026
On May 19, 2026 the “America 250 History Walk” was dedicated in Charlotte County’s William R. Gaines, Jr. Veterans’ Memorial Park at 20499 Edgewater Drive, Port Charlotte, FL. This unique collection of sixteen plaques tells the story of the American Revolution in vivid color and detail along a paved walkway. This exhibit was sponsored by the Charlotte Chapter Sons of the American Revolution, under the direction of Dr. Martin Calkins, Chapter President. The keynote speaker was Mark S. Sioma, the creative project designer and construction engineer of the entire display.
Guest speakers included Sons of the American Revolution Florida State President Jonathan Hunt, who brought greetings on behalf of the society.
Representatives from four distinct SAR chapters were present for the unveiling. Also present were several members of two DAR chapters. Debi Allen, DAR / SAR / SR Relations Chair Florida State DAR also made remarks to the assembly.
The America 250 Semiquincentennial History Walk will be available for viewing until Nov. 1, 2026 any time the William R. Gaines, Jr. Veterans Memorial Park is open. The park also contains a dedicated Liberty Tree and an America 250 historic marker sponsored by the Hickory Bluff DAR chapter.