FamilySearch International today announced its collaboration with America250, the national, nonpartisan organization charged by Congress to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. FamilySearch will support America250’s mission to celebrate unity, heritage, and progress by inviting individuals, families, and communities across the nation to remember, discover, and add their own stories to expand America’s collective narrative and connect us all.
FamilySearch’s theme for America’s 250th Anniversary—“Together, We Build America’s Story”—encourages people everywhere to “add what you know” to the free, collaborative FamilySearch Family Tree. This effort ensures that family memories, local histories, and ancestor stories contribute to the broad, diverse fabric of America’s national story.
America250 encourages the nation to pause and reflect on its past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look to the future being built for the next generation. FamilySearch’s activities reinforce this spirit by helping individuals and families uncover ancestral resilience, migrations, sacrifices, and achievements that illuminate the American experience.
Collecting Stories that Reflect Our American History
America250 emphasizes that “the American story is woven from the unique and varied narratives of our people,” highlighting the importance of both well‑known and unsung contributions to the nation’s development. FamilySearch’s role in helping individuals discover and preserve family histories directly supports this national focus, enabling Americans to document and celebrate the stories that shape their communities and heritage.
Rosie Rios, chair for the America250 initiative, said, “When we know our story, we know America’s story—because it’s the people who came before us who built our country, and then we continue to build it.”
The America250 campaign aims to engage all 350 million Americans as part of the country’s 250th anniversary on 4 July 2026. FamilySearch complements this goal through its collaborative, free Family Tree, which thrives on millions of contributions from individuals seeking to tell, preserve, and connect their family’s story, which plays a part in America’s story.
FamilySearch America250 Activities in 2026
FamilySearch America250 is a new web page launched for the national celebration to help show how every family has contributed to the American story. Throughout 2026, select FamilySearch centers and affiliate libraries across the United States will offer America250‑themed experiences, including:
- Assisted discovery of ancestors who lived through significant historical eras of American history
- Access to free genealogical records (immigration, military, census, local histories)
- Activities for youth groups, schools, and community organizations
- Hands‑on help adding family stories, photos, and memories to the FamilySearch Family Tree
- Free personalized guidance from trained volunteers
More information is available at FamilySearch America250.
Why Family Stories Matter for America250
Family stories add depth, color, and humanity to the national narrative. By participating in FamilySearch’s “add what you know” invitation, individuals can help ensure America’s 250th anniversary reflects the experiences, memories, and family connections of people from every community, culture, and heritage background.
Steve Rockwood, CEO, FamilySearch International, notes, “America’s story is built one family at a time. As we commemorate 250 years, we invite everyone to add what they know—names, memories, and photos—to help preserve the diverse experiences that shaped our communities and our nation. Together, we can make sure every voice is heard in America’s story.”
FamilySearch invites individuals, families, educators, youth organizations, and community groups to participate in the America250 effort by discovering ancestors and adding personal and family stories to the FamilySearch Family Tree. Every story contributed helps ensure that America’s story is more complete and better reflects the rich legacy of its people and heritage.
About America250
America 250 is the official nonpartisan initiative established by Congress to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Through programs, partnerships, and nationwide engagement, America 250 aims to inspire participation from every American to honor the nation’s past, celebrate its present, and build a more perfect future together. Learn more at www.America250.org.