History buffs take note: This Tuesday, May 20, is the 250th anniversary of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence, otherwise known as the Meck Dec.
Meck Dec Day is a beloved — and debated — piece of Charlotte’s Revolutionary history.
It's the story of a ragtag group of patriots who signed the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence, and officially divorced themselves from England, more than a year before the more famous declaration on July 4, 1776.
There is some doubt surrounding the Meck Dec, however, with some historians debating whether the text was actually a part of the Mecklenburg Resolves, a set of anti-British resolutions.
Regardless, Meck Dec Day has become a cornerstone in Charlotte’s history. And on this Meck Dec Day, we’ll explore the origins of the document, learn more about its history and Charlotte’s role in Revolutionary efforts, and hear why some embrace it and others question it.
GUESTS:
Nolan Dahm, exhibits manager of the Charlotte Museum of History and a historian
David Fleming, author of four books including “Who's Your Founding Father?: One Man’s Epic Quest to Uncover the First, True Declaration of Independence” and a Peabody-nominated (2025) correspondent for Meadowlark Media
Scott Syfert, co-founder and chairman of the May 20th Society, a nonprofit dedicated to commemorating the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence, chairman of the Charlotte Trail of history, partner at Moore & Van Allen Law Firm
