In honor of America’s semiquincentennial, Southampton Arts Center presents “The Story of America: 1776-2026, A Celebration of Freedom and Independence,” showcasing the process of electing the American president through an unparalleled collection of rare political campaign memorabilia from the Museum of Democracy.
The exhibition will bring 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.
“As America celebrates 250 years of our nation, it’s a momentous time to reflect on our history and we’re proud to share highlights from the Museum of Democracy’s collection with the public to help deepen our understanding of just how far we’ve come,” said Pamala Wright, co-founder and interim chairwoman of the Museum of Democracy. “This exhibition exemplifies our legacy as the most powerful democratic nation in the world, and more personally, the life’s work of my late son, Austin C. Wright. As chairman, Austin was the tireless guardian of our political history, believing that to love our country, we must first understand its journey. By sharing these American treasures with the public, we are honoring our nation’s past — and making democracy accessible to all, while inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
Through immersive storytelling, curated artifacts, archival video, and interactive elements, the exhibition will tell 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 are truly delighted to be collaborating with the Museum of Democracy for this exhibition honoring our country’s Semiquincentennial,” said Christina Mossaides Strassfield, Executive Director of the Southampton Arts Center. “This is a unique opportunity to showcase rare objects of American History on the walls of the Southampton Arts Center and to bring history to life. The exhibition has been designed to share knowledge, excite you about our history, and serve as a showcase of our past and the continuum into the present day.”
“The Story of America: 1776-2026” will be on view from May 16 through July 18. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, May 23, from 5 to 7 PM. Visit southamptonartscenter.org.