HEARTHSIDE MUSEUM FEATURES SPECIAL EXHIBIT CELEBRATING AMERICA’S 250TH

A milestone year is ahead for Hearthside House Museum as it celebrates 25 years of preservation, storytelling, and community impact with a new season centered around its signature 2026 exhibit, “WE THE PEOPLE: A Journey Through Great Road’s History & Legacies.”  The exhibit features the 250th anniversary of our country.

Opening on April 19, 2026, the museum exhibit will help create connections to the past through places and the lives that have profoundly impacted the formation of our nation and our own community in Lincoln.  It will delve into a deeper exploration of the people who lived, worked, and built their lives along the historic Great Road—one of the region’s earliest and most important transportation routes dating to 1683. Rather than focusing solely on dates and events, the exhibit is designed to highlight the human stories behind history—those who arrived here generations ago whose courage, bravery, conviction, and innovation helped shape both the local community and the nation. At the center of this year’s experience is a name many may not yet recognize—but soon will.  Commodore Silas Talbot, a Revolutionary War hero with ties to Hearthside through his descendant Arnold G. Talbot, serves as a key figure in the exhibit. Through personal letters, some from George Washington, John Adams and others, artifacts such as historic weaponry, and historical interpretation by docents and informative panels, his story offers a window into the courage, resilience, and ambition that defined the early years of the United States.  Among his many notable achievements was serving in both the Army and Navy and as captain of the USS Constitution, “Old Ironsides.”

Surrounding his story are broader themes of immigration, innovation, and identity—encouraging visitors to reflect on their own family histories and how they connect to the larger American story. This theme carries through to the other historic sites at the Great Road Heritage Campus, all of which will open on April 19th as well.  The Hannaway Blacksmith Shop, the Moffett Mill, and the Pullen’s Corner One-Room Schoolhouse will all be opened, each with their own stories, between 1-4 pm, with the last admittance at 3 pm.  The museum and sites are opened on select dates which are listed on the website.

A special feature on Saturday, April 25th is the opportunity to “Meet the Artist,” with Peter Campbell, a Lincoln artist whose paintings of the Founding Fathers, the Burning of the Gaspee, and Chase Farm Reenactments will be on display as part of the exhibit until the end of May.

Additional dates are offered through mid-September. The four sites create a fully immersive experience—one that blends exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on learning across the entire campus at Chase Farm Park.  Throughout the season, that experience will be expanded through a wide range of programs and events.  From spring through early fall, guests can attend themed presentations, workshops, and interactive programs that explore topics like Revolutionary War history, family genealogy, and preserving heirlooms for future generations. Special events such as the Patriot ChocolaTEA, Felicity’s Liberty Garden Party, and Flag Day celebrations offer engaging ways for families and new audiences to connect with history. Check the website for dates and details.

The museum and historic sites are operated by the all-volunteer organization, Friends of Hearthside.  All proceeds benefit the continued programming and restoration efforts at each of the sites.