America commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence this year.

The Fairfield Museum and History Center will celebrate by presenting a wide array of programs, exhibitions and community events throughout the year.

The kickoff was the unveiling of a brand-new mural in the main “Creating Community” exhibition gallery.

The mural depicts the Burning of Fairfield, which occurred in 1779 during the American Revolution, when British forces came to town and burned down most of the buildings.

In July, the Fairfield Museum, working with prominent archival dealer Seth Kaller, will exhibit the first printed copy of the Declaration of Independence and other founding documents in a limited two-week exhibition.

Upcoming exhibits include Fairfield 1776 to Today and Portraits of Fairfield. Both will explore how the town has grown and diversified over the past 250 years.

Admission to the museum is free until November.