As our nation approaches the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, communities across the country are preparing to reflect, remember, and celebrate the enduring ideals that shaped the United States. Here in Arizona, the Semiquincentennial is more than a single day in 2026—it’s a multi-year opportunity to bring history to life through living history events, youth education, public commemorations, and community involvement. Few organizations are more deeply connected to this moment than the Sons of the American Revolution, and few local leaders have been more engaged in the effort than DC Ranch resident Rick Spargo.

 

Rick Spargo has served two terms as President of the Arizona Sons of the American Revolution (AZSAR), a statewide organization with six chapters and more than 500 members. AZSAR is part of the national SAR, which includes over 37,000 members dedicated to honoring patriot ancestors, preserving Revolutionary War history, and educating future generations.

 

Arizona’s SAR charter is older than the state itself, dating back to June 13, 1896. Spargo considers it a great honor to have led such a historic organization.

LEADERSHIP & SERVICE:  During his time as president, Rick spent much of his energy connecting with members across the state and helping guide the organization’s work. He attended chapter events throughout Arizona, collaborated with fellow leaders, and supported partner groups like the Children of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution.  He also brought members together through statewide gatherings and often spoke with schools, veterans’ groups, and community organizations—sharing the SAR mission and helping more Arizonans engage with America’s founding history.

INSPIRATION TO JOIN SAR:   Rick’s passion for history began with his own family story. His great-grandmother was a member of the DAR in the 1920s and researched New England records to identify a patriot ancestor. Spargo has since discovered four additional patriot connections. Hearing family history from his grandfather inspired a lifelong love of the past and helped him see how his family’s story connects directly to America’s founding.

KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS:   During Rick’s time as president, AZSAR focused on finding new ways to connect with the public and share its mission. The organization refreshed its website, azsar.org, and became increasingly involved in Arizona’s America250 planning alongside the Secretary of State’s office.

AZSAR also partnered with Arizona PBS on educational efforts tied to the Revolutionary era, while continuing to invest in youth programs through scholarships, contests, and awards that encourage students to explore American history.

Service remained a priority as well, with members raising support for homeless veterans through MANA House and participating in traditions like Wreaths Across America to honor those who served.

LIVING HISTORY & PUBLIC EVENTS:  AZSAR is known for its active Color Guard, which participates in parades and ceremonies statewide, including the Parada del Sol Parade, Prescott Frontier Days, the Phoenix Veterans Parade, the Fiesta Bowl Parade, and military academy events. The Color Guard also supports funerals and DAR commemorations.

 

Reenactments have become another powerful educational tool. AZSAR staged four reenactments of the Battle of Lexington, including one attended by several hundred schoolchildren at the Pioneer Living History Museum.

Preparing for America’s 250th Anniversary:  Arizona SAR is deeply involved in planning for the Semiquincentennial.  Spargo notes that preparations include doubling the size of the Color Guard, as well as a 250th Anniversary Gala that took place in February.

 

Additional plans include reenactments through “1776 Days” in coordination with the Southwest Living History Association, events at Pioneer Living History Museum and Prescott’s Watson Lake, and leading Prescott’s July 4th parade during Frontier Days. AZSAR is also working with the Cambria Hotel on a Colonial Pop-Up Tavern experience.  More information on Arizona’s official plans can be found at visitarizona.com.

Why the 250th Matters:  For Spargo, the 250th anniversary is central to SAR’s mission of patriotism, education, and preservation. He believes these commemorations remind Americans of the founding values of the Republic and help bring history to life for younger generations through classroom visits, costumes, reenactments, and interactive projects.

How Residents Can Participate:  Spargo encourages residents to explore www.America250az.org for event schedules and to use the Secretary of State’s Passport250 app, which promotes visits to historic and cultural sites across Arizona. He also invites those with possible patriot ancestry to connect with AZSAR for help researching family history.

Looking Ahead:  Spargo hopes the 250th anniversary will unite Americans during a time of division, honoring the sacrifices that built the nation and inspiring a shared future.