Southampton Arts Center Hosts Opening Reception For ‘The Story of America: 1776-2026, A Celebration of Freedom And Independence’

Southampton Arts Center held an Opening Reception for “The Story of America: 1776-2026, A Celebration of Freedom and Independence” on Saturday, May 23, in partnership with the Museum of Democracy, in honor of America’s semiquincentennial.

The exhibition, which will be on view through July 18, brings to life more than two hundred and fifty years of American presidential campaign history from our nation’s founding to the present day through unique objects from the Museum of Democracy’s Wright Family Collection, including the original flag flown at George Washington’s inauguration at Federal Hall in New York, torches used during political torchlight parades in the 1850s, and paper dresses worn during campaign rallies in the 1960s, among others.

Through immersive storytelling, curated artifacts, archival video, and interactive elements, the exhibition tells the story of America, bringing each era of our nation’s rich history to life within the context of the culture, leaders and diverse voices that shaped it. Social issues touched upon in the exhibit include women’s suffrage, civil rights, labor rights, Vietnam War protests, and more.

“We were thrilled to welcome the community to the Southampton Arts Center and to begin the celebration for the 250th Anniversary. The fact that history can come alive on the walls of SAC is a gift to all visitors near and far,” said Christina Mossaides Strassfield, Executive Director.

Guests at the opening reception included Sharon Bush, Ken Fishel, Maria Fishel, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Sylvia Hemingway, Robert Leacock, Robin Leacock, Jeffrey Loewy, Nancy Jane Loewy, Southampton Village Mayor William Manger Jr, Nicole Miller, Siamak Samii, Rebecca Seawright, Jean Shafiroff, Ramona Singer, Paul Travis, Madison Wright, and Pamela Wright.