Charters of Freedom to be publicly dedicated at Fort Harrison State Park next week

Replicas of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights will be permanently installed in front of The Garrison at Fort Harrison State Park Inn and Conference Center and dedicated in a public ceremony at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 15.

The dedication of the replicas, collectively called the Charters of Freedom, will include music and comments from DNR Director Dan Bortner and Vance Patterson of Foundation Forward, Inc., which is a 501(c)(3) educational foundation that partners with local organizations across the country to install such displays.

After the unveiling of the exhibit, refreshments will be served to attendees, who are encouraged to bring business cards, notes of support, or other small commemorative items to place in the exhibit’s time capsule, which will be opened in 100 years.

“We are honored to provide a home for the Charters of Freedom,” said Indiana State Parks Director Terry Coleman. “The park’s history as a place where men and women were trained to serve this country and defend the principles highlighted in these documents makes Fort Harrison State Park a perfect fit, and the park’s location makes it highly accessible for Hoosiers.”

The exhibit at Fort Harrison State Park is the fifth such display in Indiana. Other settings include Noblesville, Kokomo, Huntington and Hanover College. More information about Foundation Forward can be found at chartersoffreedom.com.

Fort Harrison State Park (on.IN.gov/fortharrisonsp) is at 6000 N. Post Road, Indianapolis. The Garrison is at 6002 N. Post Road.