History, Reflection, and Reconciliation at Historic Christ Church Ahead of the 250Ride.org Reenactment

June 12, 2026, the journey begins.

Ahead of the official launch of the 250Ride.org reenactment of Caesar Rodney’s historic ride from Dover to Philadelphia, members of the 250Ride.org team, including Caesar Rodney and Jacob Broom, recently visited the historic Christ Episcopal Church in downtown Dover, Delaware.

Built in 1734 and standing in the heart of Delaware’s capital for nearly three centuries, Christ Church remains one of Delaware’s most important Revolutionary-era landmarks. The church traces its roots back to 1703 and has served generations of Delawareans throughout the colonial era, the American Revolution, and beyond. Today, it remains an active congregation and historic site connected deeply to Delaware’s founding story.

The church also shares a direct connection to Caesar Rodney himself. Rodney was a parishioner and vestryman at Christ Church, and a monument honoring him still stands on the church grounds today.

250Ride.org would also like to extend sincere gratitude to Reverend John Tober for his gracious hospitality, leadership, and support as preparations continue for this important commemorative event. Reverend Tober has been incredibly welcoming throughout the planning process, helping create a meaningful opportunity for reflection, unity, and community engagement at one of Delaware’s most historic and sacred sites.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the 250Ride.org initiative seeks to present history responsibly, honestly, and inclusively.

On Friday, June 12 from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Christ Church will serve as the official launching point of the reenactment. Before the journey begins, the community is invited to gather for a special Inter-Denominational Reconciliation Prayer, free and open to the public.

This powerful moment will honor both the heroic efforts surrounding America’s founding and the many individuals whose stories were too often overlooked in traditional history books. The prayer gathering will recognize the sacrifices, struggles, and contributions of the Unheard Voices of the Revolution, while also acknowledging the painful realities connected to slavery during the Revolutionary era.

250Ride.org has consistently emphasized that this is a responsible reenactment.

We acknowledge that Caesar Rodney was a slave owner. We also recognize his extraordinary civic duty, his sacrifice, and the critical role he played in helping secure American independence. Our mission is not to erase difficult history, but to present it fully — honestly recognizing both achievement and contradiction while creating space for education, reflection, and reconciliation.

The Inter-Denominational Prayer gathering represents an opportunity for the entire community to come together, move forward together, and begin this historic journey united in remembrance, education, and hope.

At 12:00 Noon on June 12, the reenactment officially departs Christ Church as the historic carriage begins its journey north toward Philadelphia.

The first day of the reenactment will conclude at the 250 Ride Gala at Thousand Acre Farm, a ticketed public event celebrating the arrival of Caesar Rodney at the conclusion of Day One. Gala information and tickets are available online through 250Ride.org.

The reenactment continues on June 13 with participation in Separation Day festivities in Old New Castle before continuing onward toward Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

Most stops along the route will be free and open to the public, with additional community stops and activations set to be unveiled in the coming months as preparations continue for June 12–13, 2026.