On June 12–13, 2026, 250Ride.org will host a powerful, two-day reenactment of Caesar Rodney’s historic 1776 journey. Traveling more than 80 miles by horse-drawn carriage from Dover to Philadelphia, the Reenactment commemorates Rodney’s overnight ride to cast the deciding vote for American independence.
Caesar Rodney is uniformly considered Delaware's greatest patriot. His lineage traces back to the Cesare family of Treviso, Italy.
In 1776, Caesar Rodney simultaneously served as a member of the Continental Congress, the speaker of the Delaware legislature, and a brigadier general in the war effort.
"America's birthday is a wonderful opportunity to remember the many contributions of Italians, including those during the Revolution," said Ciro Poppiti, who will portray Caesar Rodney during the Reenactment.
Like other founding fathers, there has been a reevaluation of Caesar Rodney's legacy due to his ownership of slaves. However, the Rodney legacy righted itself within one generation, as nephew Caesar Augustus Rodney was a leading abolitionist.
The journey will officially begin on Friday, June 12, at Historic Christ Episcopal Church in Dover, setting the stage for a meaningful launch rooted in reflection and unity. That evening, supporters and guests will gather mid-journey at Thousand Acre Farm in Delaware City for a special gala celebrating the mission and momentum of the campaign. On Saturday, June 13, the reenactment will continue north, making a ceremonial stop at the Separation Day Parade in Historic New Castle before concluding in Philadelphia later that evening.
The 250 Ride is powered by the Delaware Italian American Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to education, heritage, and community engagement. The Foundation has long taken pride in Caesar Rodney’s Italian heritage and his lasting role in the nation’s independence, using this initiative to honor both his legacy and the broader story of America’s founding.
At the heart of the initiative is a commitment to telling a fuller, more inclusive story of America’s founding. Through the “Unheard Voices of the Revolution,” the campaign highlights individuals whose contributions have often been overlooked, bringing new depth and perspective to the historical narrative.
Ciro Poppiti has been involved in U.S.-Italy trade initiatives for the past 30 years. For his efforts, in 2011, he was knighted a commander in the Order of the Star Republic of Italy. Collaborating with Mr. Poppiti is Hugo Immediato, Jr., whose Italian family is long-seated in American entertainment.
