It has been 237 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 Thursday, July 4.

Led by historian and living history interpreter Don Loprieno, the program will encourage audience participation and commentary of both an 18th and 21st century nature.

In addition to the traditional reading this year dissenting voices will be heard featuring interpretive interns who will portray individuals loyal to the crown, and those representing the official British government.

The famous letter from Abigail Adams to her husband John, in which she urges him “not to forget the women,” will also be highlighted. What better way to celebrate the 237th anniversary of the nation’s independence than by considering a more inclusive perspective of this celebrated national event.

Admission is free other than the customary Maine State Park fees. 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, artifact museum and gift shop. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 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 8 at 7 p.m. for “Surveyors and Settlers in the Kennebec Valley, a presentation by Old Fort Western history interpreters, Roger Collins and Peter Morrissey. The lecture will take place at the Contented Sole Restaurant on the site.

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 207-677-2423.