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America 250: 50 years ago today - March 24, 1976
Rochester Post Bulletin republishes historic front pages leading up to the nation's 250th anniversary
Mar. 24, 2026 at 7:50am
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As part of a special project leading up to America's 250th anniversary in 2026, the Rochester Post Bulletin is republishing the exact front page from its archives 50 years prior, on March 24, 1976. This daily republication offers a unique opportunity for readers to revisit local and world events, advertisements, and community life during the nation's Bicentennial year.
Why it matters
The republication of these historic front pages provides valuable insight into the local and national mood, concerns, and priorities of 1976 - a pivotal year in American history as the country celebrated its 200th birthday. This project allows modern readers to connect with the past and appreciate how much has changed, as well as what has remained the same, over the past five decades.
The details
The Rochester Post Bulletin is republishing the exact front page from 50 years ago, March 24, 1976, as part of a special countdown to America's 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026. The front page features headlines covering a range of local and national news, including Ronald Reagan's victory over the favored Gerald Ford in the Republican primaries, concerns over a potential flu epidemic, the death of British Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery, and discussions around the need for a new stadium to keep local sports teams.
- The front pages are being republished daily, leading up to July 4, 2026 - America's 250th anniversary.
- The specific front page being republished is from March 24, 1976 - 50 years prior to the current date.
The players
Rochester Post Bulletin
A local newspaper serving the Rochester, Minnesota area, which is republishing historic front pages from its archives as part of a special project leading up to America's 250th anniversary.
Ronald Reagan
The former California governor who defeated the favored Gerald Ford in the 1976 Republican primaries, as reported on the front page.
Gerald Ford
The incumbent Republican president who was defeated by Ronald Reagan in the 1976 primaries, as reported on the front page.
Bernard Montgomery
The British Field Marshal who died, as reported on the front page.
What’s next
The Rochester Post Bulletin will continue to republish historic front pages from its archives on a daily basis, leading up to the nation's 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026.
The takeaway
This special project by the Rochester Post Bulletin provides a unique opportunity for readers to connect with the past and gain a deeper appreciation for the local and national events, concerns, and priorities that shaped the country during its Bicentennial year in 1976.
