A ceremony held in downtown Minden on Wednesday marked the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s ride and served as the city’s official launch of the nationwide America 250 initiative, commemorating the lead-up to the United States’ 250th birthday in 2026.
“As far as we know, Minden is the first city to celebrate the Two Lanterns,” said Jerry Madden, former president of the Galvez Chapter of the Louisiana State Society of the Sons of the American Revolution and current Louisiana State assistant secretary and DAR/SAR liaison. “This is the first time this will happen in 250 years. I’m glad you are here; you are a part of history.”
The ceremony began with a presentation of colors by the Minden High School ROTC and the Pledge of Allegiance, which was led by DAR Dorcheat-Bistineau Regent Cindy Madden. The Minden High School band followed with a rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner.
Madden spoke about the historical significance of Paul Revere’s midnight ride. LASSAR Color Guard Commander Ted Brode of West Monroe concluded the historical segment by firing a musket.
Mayor Nick Cox then read a proclamation in support of the Two Lights Initiative, encouraging unity and remembrance.
“The call to unity and the call to serve each other is no less relevant today than it was then,” Cox said. “A national initiative has been proposed that two lights be displayed in public spaces across the county for all to see. I call on the citizens to unite in our shared history by honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for our independence and honoring the values that we still hold dear today.”
Following the reading, Cox presented the proclamation to Madden.
The Minden High Crimson Chorus performed “America the Beautiful,” and Brother Wayne Carter offered a closing prayer.
The Two Lights Initiative is part of the larger America 250 campaign, organized by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission to celebrate the nation’s founding. The initiative will culminate on July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The April launch centers on Paul Revere’s ride and encourages communities across the country to display two lights on April 18 and participate in acts of service on April 19.
