BISMARCK — On the evening of Saturday, April 18, the Liberty Memorial Building on the North Dakota Capitol grounds will shine two symbolic lights as part of “Two Lights for 250,” a commemoration marking the 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s legendary ride warning patriots of a British advance on Concord.

The phrase “One, if by land, and two, if by sea” comes from the Henry Wadsworth Longfellow poem “Paul Revere’s Ride.” It refers to the signal used on April 18, 1775. Two lanterns were hung in Boston’s Old North Church steeple, alerting Revere that the British were approaching by water, sparking his historic midnight ride to Lexington and Concord to warn the country folk to take up arms against the advancing British forces.

The ND250 Commission is encouraging government offices, businesses and households across North Dakota and the nation to participate by displaying two lights in windows throughout the night of April 18, honoring the signal that became a defining moment in America’s fight for independence.

“Two Lights for 250″ is a simple but powerful way to connect with one of the most iconic moments in our nation’s founding,” said Bill Peterson, director of the State Historical Society of North Dakota and chair of the ND250 Commission. “By shining two lights, North Dakotans can reflect on the courage, unity, and resolve that shaped our history.”

The Liberty Memorial Building was constructed as a tribute to North Dakotans who served in World War I and stands as a lasting symbol of service and sacrifice. As the oldest building on the Capitol grounds, it bridges past and present, reflecting the same enduring commitment to freedom represented by Revere’s ride, according to the ND250 Commission.

The lighting of the Liberty Memorial Building serves as a moment of remembrance and unity as the country approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States.