Logo for America 250, History's Hometown, Auburn NY
Image of Harriet Tubman Statue holding a lamp with City Hall and an American flag in the background.
Photo by Todd Tanner

The City of Auburn’s Historic and Cultural Sites Commission is pleased to announce its participation in commemorating America’s 250th birthday in 2026. In honor of this semi quincentennial anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Commission is supporting a series of local events throughout the year. These events will highlight the rich stories of our local people and places, reflecting on our nation’s past, present, and future. Join us in commemorating this significant milestone as Americans across the nation come together to honor our shared history and envision the next 250 years.

America 250 Programming: Winter and Spring

Photo of an exhibition space with purple walls and a fireplace. Panels and a projecting video show information about Western films.

"The Reel American West" Exhibit

Opening on February 4, 2026 at the Cayuga Museum of History and Art, this exhibit highlights the history of Westerns, Ted Case’s role in the production of the first sound-on-film western, and the representation of women, Black cowboys, and Indigenous people.

Image of a National Park Ranger giving a lecture to an audience.

Harriet Tubman Day

Celebrate the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman in her chosen hometown on March 10, 2026. Hosted by the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park and the NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center, programming will include tours of Tubman's church, a city proclamation ceremony and honoring of Tubman's familial descendants, an evening keynote lecture, and more.

An aerial image of a small forested island set off from the shore of Cayuga Lake.

Frontenac Music Series

The Frontenac Historical Society, a local history museum in Union Springs located on the Sullivan Clinton Campaign route, will explore the history of war, forgotten women's history, and the ramifications of dispossession by hosting a year-long music series. The first though-provoking performance will be on March 15, 2026.

Revolutionary Exhibitions

In 2026, the Cayuga Museum’s exhibitions will all relate to the themes of America 250. Highlights will include stories of Cayuga County’s early development during and following the American Revolutionary War. The major themes include “Social Justice”, “Political Landscape”, and “Indigenous Art/Connection to Land”. More information coming soon!

A photo of the interior of an ornate chapel with pews and a large gold relief under stained glass windows.

Willard Chapel History with Mike Long

On May 10, 2026, The Community Preservation Committee will host a one hour talk and slideshow presentation with Mike Long exploring the history of the Auburn Theological Seminary and Willard Chapel, and how this local institution connects to America’s broader story. More information coming soon!

Photo of a bust of William Henry Seward in a 19th century library.

"Founding Immigrants" Exhibit

This spring, the Seward House Museum will open an exhibition that will explore the nation's history of immigration, particularly in the mid-19th century, and William Seward's political involvement. Two programs, the first of which is on May 13, will host professor and author Carl Bon Tempo.