Two hundred and fifty years ago, a bold promise was made.
A promise that freedom was worth defending. That service mattered. That ordinary people could shape the course of history through courage, sacrifice, and leadership.
As America celebrates the 250th anniversary of its independence, Patriots Point is marking a milestone of its own: 50 years of preserving and sharing the stories of those who answered our nation's call.
For five decades, millions of visitors have walked the decks of the USS Yorktown, stood beneath historic aircraft, explored the Vietnam Experience Exhibit, and connected with the men and women whose service helped shape our nation. Every artifact, exhibit, and educational program serves a greater purpose—helping future generations understand not only what happened, but what it cost.
Supporting that mission is the USS Yorktown Foundation, the nonprofit fundraising partner of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Through the generosity of donors, members, corporate partners, volunteers, and community supporters, the Foundation helps preserve our historic ships and artifacts, expand educational opportunities, develop meaningful exhibits, and create experiences that inspire future generations through stories of service, leadership, duty, and sacrifice.
History does not preserve itself.
It requires people who believe these stories matter. People who recognize that preserving our nation's heritage is not simply about protecting ships and artifacts, but about preserving the values they represent.
As Patriots Point looks toward its next 50 years and beyond, the USS Yorktown Foundation remains committed to helping fund the restoration of historic artifacts, educational scholarships, exhibit development, and programs that connect visitors of all ages to America's military history.
That commitment is strengthened through meaningful partnerships that celebrate our nation's history while helping preserve it. One exciting example is our collaboration with Real Liberty Copper, which is offering a limited-edition Lady Liberty Enlightening the World commemorative coin crafted from original copper removed from the Statue of Liberty during its landmark restoration between 1984 and 1986. The historic copper was carefully preserved and transformed into a commemorative coin honoring America's 250th anniversary, with 10% of every purchase supporting the USS Yorktown Foundation's mission.
Like the USS Yorktown, the Statue of Liberty represents far more than metal and craftsmanship. It stands as an enduring symbol of freedom, hope, democracy, and opportunity. Together, these American icons remind us that history lives not only in monuments and museums, but in the stories we choose to preserve and pass on.
Ways You Can Help Preserve America's Story
As the fundraising partner of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, the USS Yorktown Foundation relies on the generosity of people who believe these stories deserve to be preserved. As we celebrate America's 250th anniversary and Patriots Point's 50th anniversary, there are many meaningful ways you can help carry this mission forward:
- Give for the 250th and help preserve the ships, artifacts, and stories that shaped our nation.
- Become a member and enjoy a year of exclusive benefits while supporting preservation, education, and community programs.
- Purchase a Lady Liberty commemorative coin through our partnership with Real Liberty Copper. 10% of every purchase supports the Foundation's mission.
- Share our mission by visiting Patriots Point, bringing a friend, or encouraging others to experience the stories of service, leadership, duty, and sacrifice.
Together, we are preserving more than history. We are preserving perspective.
As America celebrates its 250th anniversary and Patriots Point looks toward its next 50 years, thank you for helping ensure these stories continue to inspire generations to come.
