LEE, Mass. — The town of Lee was founded on Oct. 21, 1777. Exactly one year before its 250th anniversary, officials announced the launch of events to honor its history and the people and organizations that make it special. 

 

"Lee250 is a chance to celebrate our history, support the businesses that serve our community today, and invest in Lee's future. We encourage businesses and residents alike to get involved because the more we participate the more we can accomplish together," said Alex Heddinger, Lee Chamber of Commerce executive director.

 

The declaration on Wednesday featured remarks from the 250th Anniversary Committee that was established a couple months ago, Town Administrator Christopher Brittain said. 

 

The committee is currently made up of more than 25 people ranging from business owners, local officials, youth and nonprofit representatives to community members at large.

 

Its four subcommittees will be organizing events throughout the year, including concerts, historical photo displays and exhibitions, a citizens' parade, all culminating in a block party. 

 

"We hope this will be the largest celebration in the history of the town of Lee, and we want the entire community to be a part of it," Town Planner Brooke Healy, who chairs the birthday communication souvenirs subcommittee. 

 

The block party is planned for Oct. 21, 2027, exactly 250 years after the town's establishment and will feature live music, food trucks, a "spectacular drone show" and a communitywide celebration in downtown Lee, described by Healy as the "heart" of the town.