The 200th anniversary of the establishment of the United States gave rise not only to national-scale celebrations but hundreds of smaller celebrations at the state and county level, as well. These commemorative events focused on communities' pioneer history and heritage and often coincided with the production of local histories and other commemorative materials. By coincidence, Montgomery County, Virginia also celebrated its 200th anniversary in 1976. In 1973, the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors created a commission to organize events which would not only commemorate the U.S. bicentennial but would also celebrate and preserve the history of Montgomery County, its communities and institutions. Chaired by Virginia Tech animal science professor George Litton, the commission also organized tours of local areas and designed commemorative items, including an emblem which is used today as the Montgomery County seal. The commission's activities culminated in the "Festival of Independence" celebrations in Blacksburg and Christiansburg, July 2-4, 1976.