America's 250th Anniversary
American Revolution Experience Traveling Exhibit Opening Ceremony
Details:
Local media and the public are invited to the inaugural event of Greene County’s semiquincentennial celebrations that honor America’s 250th anniversary this year, with the unveiling of an exhibit detailing the history of the American Revolutionary War. Hosted by the Rachel Donelson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the County’s America 250 Commission, the opening ceremony will feature a variety of speakers, formal ceremonies, and storytelling that will share experiences of the people who witnessed the dawn of a new nation.
WHO:
The Greene County Commission. Renee Pace, Chair of the Show Me Missouri America 250 Commission and NSDAR Curator General, delivering the keynote address and greetings from the National DAR Society. Payton Rice of the Quapaw Nation and member of the Ponca, Sac and Fox tribes performing the Grass Dance in full regalia, accompanied on drums by his father Cricket Rice. The SAR Color Guard presenting Colors in Revolutionary War uniforms. Veterans from each military branch leading the Pledge of Allegiance. A brass ensemble performing patriotic music. The Courthouse Chorale performing the National Anthem. City of Springfield Councilmember Abe McGull delivering the Invocation and Chaplain Wendy Akeson delivering the Benediction.
WHAT:
Opening ceremony and public launch of the American Revolution Experience Traveling Exhibit that features 12 banners and three interactive kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology, unique artifacts, and primary accounts to share the experiences of ordinary people, women, African Americans, Native Americans, and soldiers during the Revolution. Following the ceremony, the exhibit will be open for public viewing every weekday from March 9–17. Rachel Donelson DAR volunteers will be on site daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to assist visitors and help those interested in discovering whether they have a Revolutionary War ancestor. American Revolution Experience cards with QR codes will be available to guide visitors through the exhibit.
WHERE:
Greene County Historic Courthouse Rotunda located at 940 N Boonville Ave in Springfield.
WHEN:
Sunday, March 8, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The opening ceremony begins at 2 p.m.