New America 250 Window Exhibits at Orinda Historical Society

ORINDA, CA — As the nation prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the Acalanes Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) has created two special display windows at the Orinda Historical Society, located adjacent to the Orinda Library Plaza. The displays invite visitors to explore America's founding through both history and popular culture.

One exhibit, "When the Declaration Was News," is inspired by historian Emily Sneff's award-winning book When the Declaration of Independence Was News. Through historical images, reproductions, and interpretive displays, visitors can learn how news of independence spread across the colonies in 1776 through newspapers, public readings, churches, taverns, and word of mouth.

The second exhibit, "Liberty Blue: From America's Bicentennial to America 250," showcases the iconic blue-and-white china collected by millions of Americans during the nation's Bicentennial celebration in 1976. Produced in England and distributed through grocery store and bank promotions, Liberty Blue featured scenes from Colonial America and the Revolutionary era, bringing American history to kitchen tables across the country.

Together, the exhibits connect America's Bicentennial celebration with the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, offering visitors an opportunity to reflect on the people, events, and ideals that shaped the nation.

The displays are part of the Acalanes Chapter's broader America 250 programming, which includes participation in local Fourth of July celebrations and a special author event featuring Emily Sneff on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center. The free public program will explore the story behind the Declaration of Independence and how news of independence spread throughout the colonies in 1776. Books will be available for purchase and signing following the presentation.

The exhibits are free and open to the public during regular Orinda Library Plaza hours.

For those interested in learning more about America's founding as the nation approaches its 250th birthday, the displays offer a unique opportunity to connect local history, national history, and the enduring legacy of the Declaration of Independence.

Location: Display Windows at the Orinda Historical Society, adjacent to the Orinda Library Plaza
Admission: Free
Author Event: Emily Sneff, August 6, 2026, 6:30 p.m., Lafayette Library and Learning Center. Reserve your seats here.