It has been 240 years since the Declaration of Independence was penned, but its words are just as meaningful today as they were in the 18th century. To honor that decisive document in American history, Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site will host an annual reading at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 2. Led by historian and living history interpreter Don Loprieno, with commentary of both an 18th and 21st century nature, the event is produced by The Friends of Colonial Pemaquid. What better way to celebrate the 240th anniversary of the nation’s independence than by considering a more inclusive perspective of this celebrated national event. Rain date is Sunday, July 3.

This event is free of charge. Donations are welcome. The reading is sponsored by The Friends of Colonial Pemaquid.

The grounds of Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site include a partially reconstructed fort with permanent exhibit, archaeological ruins and historic structures, a burial ground, and artifact museum. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Colonial Pemaquid offers a glimpse of English frontier settlement life in the New World during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Visitors are encouraged to return on Monday, July 11 at 7:30 p.m. for the first of the evening lecture series. Emerson Baker will spotlight “The Salem Witch Trials and their Connections to Pemaquid and the Maine Frontier.”

Directions: Colonial Pemaquid is located off Route 130, approximately 12 miles south of Route 1 and 3 miles north of the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. From Route 130 South, in New Harbor, turn right onto Huddle Road and follow signs to Colonial Pemaquid. From Route 32 South, turn left onto Route 130 and then immediately right onto Snowball Hill Road, following signs to Colonial Pemaquid. The Contented Sole Restaurant is on site adjacent to the museum.

For more information, visit the park’s website at www.friendsofcolonialpemaquid.org, or you may contact the park manager at 677-2423.