Objects out of Storage: Local History at the National Museum

History is everywhere! At the National Museum of American History, we tell big stories about a big nation. But many objects we collect and preserve are linked to specific locations, too. National trends and events affect people at a local level, and sometimes local stories grow into national ones.

At this special Objects Out of Storage event, view rarely seen objects from the museum's Division of Work & Industry that showcase the scope of the national collection. An 1837 electric motor (Brandon, Vermont) and a 1950 Bundt pan (Minneapolis, Minnesota) are just two of the objects curators will use to recall stories of how Americans in many times and places have pursued the promises of our nation’s founding.

Throughout 2026, we’re celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary with an exhibition and programs that explore the ideals of the Declaration of Independence. Visit our site for more details: https://s.si.edu/48ZEjJQ.