Fair Haven will celebrate its first official Matthew Lyon Day on Saturday, July 18, honoring one of Vermont’s most influential early political figures and a champion of free speech and freedom of the press.

The celebration, organized by the Fair Haven Historical Society, will begin at 11 AM in the town park with remarks from state leaders and journalists about the importance of First Amendment rights. Scheduled speakers include Gov. Phil Scott, Senate Minority Leader Brian Collamore, House Minority Leader William Canfield, and Vermont Press Association Executive Director Michael Donoghue.

The event commemorates Matthew Lyon, an Irish immigrant who helped found Fair Haven in 1779 and became one of the nation’s most colorful and controversial congressmen. Nicknamed the “Spitting Lyon of Congress” after a famous altercation on the House floor, Lyon became a symbol of free speech after being convicted under the federal Sedition Act of 1798 for criticizing President John Adams. He served four months in prison and remains the only member of Congress to be re-elected while incarcerated.

After completing his sentence, Lyon returned to Congress and later cast the tie-breaking vote in the House of Representatives that helped elect Thomas Jefferson as the nation’s third president in 1800. Before leaving Fair Haven, Lyon donated land that became the town park and cemetery.

Following the speeches, the celebration will feature free hot dogs, popcorn and Stewart’s Shops ice cream, along with family activities including a pumpkin seed spitting contest, sack races, cornhole, Revolutionary War costume photo opportunities, children’s coloring pages, and historical exhibits. The festivities are scheduled to continue until about 2 PM.

If rain forces a change of plans, the speaking program will move to the Fair Haven Methodist Church at the corner of West Street and Washington Avenue, while other activities will be adjusted as conditions allow.

For more information, organizers encourage the public to contact Fair Haven Historical Society member Walter Sperr at 720-785-3099.