Sgt. Maj. John Champe Chapter Represented at 250th Anniversary of the Halifax Resolves

Halifax, North Carolina — April 12, 2026 — The Sgt. Maj. John Champe Chapter of the Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) was represented by Past President Kenneth Bonner at the 250th commemoration of the Halifax Resolves, held Sunday, April 12, at the site of the historic colonial courthouse in Halifax, North Carolina.

The event honored the 1776 adoption of the Resolves, in which North Carolina became the first colony to formally recommend independence from Great Britain. The document authorized its delegates to the Continental Congress to vote for independence and outlined grievances that justified separation.

The keynote address was delivered by Michael J. Elston, President General of the National Society SAR. The ceremony drew participation from members of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the American Legion, additional heritage organizations, local and state officials, members of the press, and the public.

A granite marker commemorating the semi-quincentennial anniversary was unveiled by President General Elston, with assistance from the Halifax Resolves Chapter of the North Carolina SAR.

Adopted unanimously by 83 delegates of the North Carolina Provincial Congress, the Halifax Resolves marked a pivotal step toward American independence. The resolution was forwarded to Philadelphia, directing North Carolina’s delegation to the Second Continental Congress to support independence—helping pave the way for the Declaration of Independence in July 1776.

Following the formal program, President General Elston inducted North Carolina Governor Josh Stein into the Sons of the American Revolution.