Watertown Commemorates 250th Anniversary of Landmark Treaty with Series of Events

“Hundreds of community members, Indigenous leaders, veterans, historians, and elected officials gathered at the Mosesian Center for the Arts on July 18 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Treaty of Watertown.

Signed in 1776 between the newly formed United States and the Mi'kmaq and Maliseet Nations, the Treaty of Watertown is recognized as the first treaty between the United States and an Indigenous nation. Throughout the day, speakers reflected on the treaty's historical significance and its enduring message of friendship, diplomacy, and mutual respect.

Watch the complete Treaty of Watertown 250th Anniversary Commemoration ceremony in the video below to experience the full program, including remarks from Indigenous leaders, historical presentations, cultural performances, and special tributes.

The Watertown Free Public Library hosted a program examining Indigenous perspectives on the origins of the American Revolution on July 15, 2026.

The event featured Watertown resident Mishy Lesser, co-founder of the Pigsgusset Initiative and Upstander Project, alongside Passamaquoddy author, educator, musician, and knowledge keeper Chris Newell, Mi’kmaq educator and musician Graham Marshall, and Upstander Project public historian Kristine Malpica.”

Read the full article at WCA-TV.