Welcome to the DAR Run Through History experience.

This run/walk/roll is more than a 5K—it is a journey through 250 years of American history, from the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 to the nation we know today.

As you move through the course at Liliʻuokalani Park and Gardens, each station highlights key moments that helped shape the United States.

We invite you to reflect, learn, and honor those who came before us.

Tap highlighted words within each station to explore short, interactive pages and learn more about the history behind each moment.

🇺🇸 START LINE — 1776

Independence Declared

On July 4, 1776, the thirteen American colonies declared independence from Britain. There were 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence (often called the Founding Fathers)

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal…”

This moment marked the beginning of a new nation built on liberty and self-governance.

STATION 1 - 1776–1800s

A NEW NATION TAKES SHAPE

• The American Revolutionary War ends in 1783

• The U.S. Constitution is ratified in 1788

• George Washington becomes the first president in 1789

• The Bill of Rights adopted to protect individual freedoms

🇺🇸 The foundation of a new democracy is established.

STATION 2 - 1800s–1865

EXPANSION AND CONFLICT

• The United States expands westward across the continent

• American Civil War divides the nation (1861–1865)

• Abraham Lincoln leads through national crisis and conflict

• 13th Amendment abolishes slavery

🇺🇸 A defining struggle over unity and freedom

STATION 3 — 1865–1918

GROWTH & GLOBAL PRESENCE

• Nation rebuilds after the Civil War

• Industrial growth transforms daily life and work

• Immigration shapes American communities

• World War I (U.S. enters 1917)

🇺🇸 A nation rising on the world stage

STATION 4 — 1918–1945

SACRIFICE & UNITY

• Great Depression impacts families nationwide

• World War II unites Americans in service

• Attack on Pearl Harbor draws the U.S. into war

• The home front communities support the effort at home and abroad

🇺🇸 A generation defined by resilience and unity

STATION 5 — 1945–2001

CHANGE & COURAGE

• Civil Rights Movement advances equality

• Vietnam War shapes a generation

• Apollo 11 Moon Landing marks a giant leap in exploration

• Cold War ends, reshaping global relations

🇺🇸 A time of transformation, progress, and innovation

STATION 6 2001–PRESENT

SERVICE & STRENGTH

• September 11 attacks (2001) becomes a defining moment in modern U.S. history

• Communities across the nation unite in service and support

• U.S. service members continue a long tradition of military commitment at home and abroad

• Modern era, Innovation, resilience, and community strength shape America 

🇺🇸 A nation continuing to serve, adapt, and move forward together.

STATION 7 2026 & BEYOND

THE NEXT 250 YEARS

• 2026 & beyond - 250 years of American history inspires future generations

• New leaders emerge in communities, service, and innovation

• Technology, education, and opportunity continue to shape the nation

• Each generation helps define the future of the United States

🇺🇸 The future of America is written by those who step forward today.