To the editor:

Perhaps it is my new age of 60 coupled with some delightful extra time on my hands. It could also be my new role as chair of Bristol’s 250th Commission that I have been bitten by the Bristol history bug. 

Up until now, I considered myself lightly informed of Bristol’s unique history, but serving on a board with ten other inspiring members, I am now in full throttle.

I have found myself reaching out to some of our most beloved local historians, attempting to quiet my highly creative brain into some sort of receptacle for their wealth and generosity of knowledge. I am having so much fun.

 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of our nation. The Bristol 250 Commission is made up of an enthusiastic group of local residents who have a passion for Bristol. Like the mission of the RI state 250 commission, Bristol will approach its 250 celebration by exploring all of our unique history — not just the American Revolution, but also what happened that got us there and what we have done since.

We on the B250 Commission think of this as a great opportunity to collaborate with our entire town, so together we can harness our curiosity to learn who and how we became this wonderful community we get to call home.

We are in the planning phase as we approach 2026. Sure, we know we have our beloved parade as one of the most historic experiences in the country, but we don’t want to rely solely on this. Our board is working tirelessly on coordinating with our venues, residents, businesses, restaurants, churches, synagogue, schools, manufacturing, our beautiful waterfront and our university to create ongoing events and interesting projects for a year-long celebration. No small undertaking, but our enthusiasm is high and if you haven’t heard about our B250 plans yet, consider this your first introduction.

For those of us who were around in 1976 for the 200-year celebration, it was a magical time. Back then, the Bicentennial Commission wasn’t competing for our attention the way we have to today, but together we can create something special for the 250th. So, if someone from our commission comes knocking to gather your ideas and participation, we hope you will be as excited as we are and say a big hardy YES. 

Need more information or want to help? Our website is just getting started www.explorebristolri.com/bristol-ri-250. We also have a Facebook group, BristolRI250 and you can send an email to info@explorebristolri.com. We only have one 250, let’s make it the best in the state. 

Alayne White
Bristol