ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. – After a year of festivities marking its 200th birthday, Allen County’s bicentennial celebration is set to conclude with a final ceremony on April 1. The event will not only reflect on the past year’s events but also unveil a brand-new county flag, a first for the region.
A Year of Commemoration
The Allen County Board of Commissioners officially kicked off the bicentennial celebrations on April 1, 2024. Over the past year, numerous events and initiatives have highlighted the county’s rich history and vibrant community spirit.
Some of the most notable aspects of the celebration have included:
- The “I am Allen” sculpture project, which showcased artistic representations of the county’s heritage.
- A 200 Acts of Kindness campaign, encouraging residents to engage in charitable activities.
- A time capsule project, preserving memories for future generations.
- The long-anticipated Allen County flag competition, allowing the community to contribute to the county’s visual identity.
The Final Event: Closing Ceremony at Rousseau Centre
To bring the year-long festivities to an official close, Allen County Commissioners will host a closing ceremony on April 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Rousseau Centre. Attendees will have a chance to reflect on the impact of the bicentennial and witness the long-awaited reveal of the new Allen County flag.
This will be the first time in history that Allen County adopts an official flag, moving beyond the traditional use of its old county seal. The Commissioners have emphasized the growing trend of cities, counties, and states moving toward distinct flag designs to represent their unique identity.
A Community Effort in Flag Design
The idea for a new Allen County flag was first introduced in January 2024, when Commissioners launched a county-wide design competition. The community played an active role in the process, participating in a survey in October 2024 to vote on eight finalist designs.
After the unveiling, the designs from all eight finalists will be displayed at the Rousseau Centre during business hours from April 1 to April 11. The new flag will officially be approved and adopted during a legislative session at Citizens Square on April 4.
What Comes Next?
Beyond the bicentennial, officials hope the celebration’s initiatives will have a lasting impact. The new flag is expected to serve as a symbol of pride for the county, representing both its historical roots and its forward-looking vision. The time capsule will remain sealed for future generations to open, offering a glimpse into Allen County’s life in 2025.
For residents who have actively participated in the bicentennial, the conclusion of the celebrations marks the end of a historic chapter—but also the beginning of a new era for Allen County.
