2026 is a big year for local museums and historical societies, as the Country celebrates its 250th birthday.
Executive Director Joey Long explains that this year, they will be hosting a series of events titled "America 250 at the Homestead." She says the events will begin when they open for the season this Spring, and will go all the way until the end of the year.
Long indicates that Lincoln Historian Guy Fraker will be returning to the Homestead in May. He will be diving into President Lincoln's reverence for the Constitution and Declaration of Independence. The annual Quilt Show will also be USA-themed this year.
In July, the Museum will host a dueling fiddle and banjo act called Peaches and Bacon as guests enjoy an ice cream social. Long adds that the event will also feature Carriage Rides.
Before the Homestead reaches its busy fall and winter seasons, Long hopes to host an Illinois Humanities Council Road Scholar to give a presentation called "History of Illinois in 10 Objects."
Long indicates that they will be welcoming sponsorship from anyone interested in helping them celebrate the milestone year, with roadside recognition planned on the Homestead Grounds.
Communities all around central Illinois will be celebrating the America 250 Milestone, including plans that are in the works in Clinton. Learn more about the 2026 calendar of events from the DeWitt County Museum by visiting chmoorehomestead.org.
