On June 25, some 65 people from all corners of the world—Poland, Guatemala, Peru, Jamaica, and beyond—will gather beneath grand old oaks at Middleton Place. Together, they will stand to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America looking out upon the natural beauty of a National Historic Landmark.
For the fifth year running, Middleton Place has hosted this unique naturalization ceremony to welcome new citizens while honoring the 272nd birthday of early resident Arthur Middleton, who—as a signer of the Declaration of Independence—is one of the United States’ founding fathers.
“Instead of having the Oath of Citizenship administered in a cold office building, these attendees enjoy an historically significant outdoor setting,” says Middleton Place vice president and chief operations officer Tracey Todd. “The significance of the ceremony and the site is not lost on them.”
Judge Alex Sanders serves as the keynote speaker for this year’s event, featuring singers and musicians as well as a Colonial Color Guard (dressed in 18th-century period attire) who present the flags of our nation and state. Afterward, attendees and their families are treated as special guests of the plantation, receiving complimentary admission to the gardens, Stableyards Living History Museum, and the House Museum.
Want to witness the patriotic occasion? All regular visitors to Middleton Place are welcomed to observe—an ideal way to take in the true meaning of the upcoming Independence Day.
Attend the event: It’s free with admission ($28; $15 student; $10 ages six-13; free for child under six) at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 25, at Middleton Place, 4300 Ashley River Rd. (843) 556-6020, www.middletonplace.org
