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Ingersoll Day

Honor the legacy of Robert Ingersoll on Ingersoll Day - a day to celebrate reason, free thought, and intellectual inquiry. Join the celebration today!

Tuesday

August 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAugust 11

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYFamous People

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate Ingersoll Day on August 11, a day dedicated to honoring the life and achievements of Robert G. Ingersoll – a prominent American lawyer, writer, and orator. Known for his powerful speeches advocating for rationalism and free thought, Ingersoll was a leading figure in the late 19th century's Freethought movement. On this day, we remember his contributions to society and also celebrate the values of reason, critical thinking, and intellectual freedom that he stood for. So let's raise our voices in praise of Ingersoll and all he stood for!

TIMELINE

Ingersoll Day Timeline

Birth of Robert Ingersoll

Robert Green Ingersoll, who came to be known as "The Great Agnostic", was born on August 11, 1833, in Dresden, New York.

Ingersoll's Military Service

During the American Civil War, Ingersoll served as a Colonel of the Illinois Volunteer Cavalry Regiment and was captured (and subsequently paroled) during the raid at Lexington, Tennessee.

Ingersoll's Legal Career

Ingersoll was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1867 and established his law practice, often involving himself in high-profile criminal and civil cases.

Prominent Speeches Begin

Ingersoll delivered his legendary speech "The Gods" at the National Liberal League meeting in 1876, embarking on his career as a sought-after orator.

Death of Ingersoll

Robert G. Ingersoll passed away on July 21, 1899, but his speeches and writings continue to influence thinkers and inspire a spirit of free thought.

Establishment of Ingersoll Day

In 2005, the Center for Inquiry and the American Humanist Association proposed to officially mark the birth date of Robert G. Ingersoll as Ingersoll Day.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Ingersoll Day

Explore Ingersoll's history

Take a walking tour of the town and visit historic sites related to Ingersoll's past. Learn about the people, events, and industries that shaped the town we know today.

ATTEND

Attend a community event

Check out local events and festivals happening in Ingersoll on this special day. This is a great way to celebrate with your fellow townspeople and learn more about the community.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer for a good cause

Ingersoll Day is a perfect opportunity to give back to the community. Find a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your interests and spend the day making a positive impact in your town.

SUPPORT

Support local businesses

Take a stroll around town and support local businesses by shopping at small boutiques and dining at independent restaurants. This not only helps the local economy, but also allows you to discover unique products and flavors specific to Ingersoll.

Share your Ingersoll pride on social media

Spread the love for Ingersoll by posting pictures and memories on social media using the hashtag #IngersollDay. This is a great way to showcase the town's charm and connect with others who share your love for Ingersoll.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Ingersoll Day is Important

Inspiring change and progress

Ingersoll Day is not only a celebration but also a call to action to continue advocating for the values that Robert G. Ingersoll stood for. It serves as a reminder to never be complacent and to always strive for progress and positive change in our communities.

Celebrating history and community

Ingersoll Day honors Robert G. Ingersoll, a prominent historical figure and advocate for human rights and individual freedoms. By celebrating this day, we can honor his legacy and the impact he had on our society. It also brings our local community together to remember and appreciate our shared history.

Promoting critical thinking and free thought

Robert G. Ingersoll was known for his speeches and writings that challenged traditional beliefs and encouraged people to think for themselves. On Ingersoll Day, we not only remember his ideas but also promote the importance of critical thinking and free thought in our society.