Exhibit: Americana at 250 ponders who we are as New Mexicans on America’s birthday

Santa Fe, NM – In honor of America’s 250th birthday, the New Mexico History Museum is celebrating with a special exhibit, “Americana at 250: Eagles, Flags, and Uncle Sam,” opening on February 20, 2026. The exhibit will showcase symbols of Americana that evoke national identity and pride, such as eagles, flags, and Uncle Sam.

While New Mexico was far from statehood when the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, the exhibit provides an opportunity for people to think about who we are as Americans and Nuevo Mexicanos, or New Mexicans.

“Even though New Mexico was one of the last states to join the union, our people played a vital role in shaping the nation, and America continues to be better for it,” said Mark Dodge, Curator of Southwest Memories at the History Museum.

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The exhibit will be on display in the New Mexico Showcase on the second floor of the museum. Drawing from five different state museums, the exhibit will showcase 17 symbols of Americana that speak to a spirit of freedom and opportunity. Favorites include a rare souvenir ribbon from Teddy Roosevelt’s 1903 Santa Fe visit, a bronze titled “Unfinished Liberty” by Fritz Scholder, and a huge wood carving titled, “Bald Eagles” by Leroy Ortega. A special highlight includes regular screenings of “Rio Grande,” a short movie sponsored by the New Mexico American Revolution Bicentennial Commission in 1976.

“Americana at 250: Eagles, Flags, and Uncle Sam” will be on view through January 20, 2027. A public reception will be hosted during Palace Avenue First Friday Art Walk on Friday, March 6, 2026, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. The museum plans to screen the film, “Rio Grande” at the opening.

The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs is planning a variety of exhibits and programs in celebration of this anniversary and is part of the New Mexico Semi-Quincentennial Commission. Visit www.newmexicospirit.orgto learn more about how the state is joining the nation in commemorating 250 years of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.