Anne Gelhaus/The Mercury News
Exhibiting indepence
As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, many Americans may feel conflicted about the state of the nation. Los Altos History Museum invites visitors to reflect on the country’s past and imagine its future through a new exhibition, “The Spirit of ’76: Reflecting on America’s 250th,” on view June 18-Nov. 8.
“Reflecting on the Declaration’s promises helps us to see the progress we’ve made, while also recognizing the work still left to do,” said exhibition curator Dr. Amy Ellison in a release. “It’s okay to feel conflicted.”
Alongside national stories, the exhibition explores how communities marked major national milestones and reflected on the state of the nation, featuring local connections such as the Anza expedition—also commemorating its 250th anniversary—and photographs from the Los Altos Bicentennial parade. Visitors will also see Peggy Fleming’s bicentennial skating costume, on loan from History San Jose, and learn about the People’s Bicentennial Quilt, created as a celebration of the nation’s diversity.
Interactive elements invite visitors to vote in polls, engage directly with the text of the Declaration, contribute to response walls,and share their hopes for how America might celebrate its 300th anniversary. Guests can also view winning entries in a student poster contest exploring the events young people believe most shaped the nation’s history. View article here.
Penny Lave is seen dressed up for a Bicentennial event at the Los Altos movie theater on Main Street in 1976. The photo is part of “The Spirit of ’76: Reflecting on America’s 250th,” on view at the Los Altos History Museum June 18-Nov. 8. (Photo Courtesy of LAHM Collections)
