History Gallery

The history exhibit on display shows an exciting look at the people, places, and events in Littleton from settlement in the 1860s to the present through historic pictures, unique objects and compelling narratives using the museum's collections. The museum will soon begin the planning phase of a complete redesign of its local history exhibit, inviting community feedback to create a more inclusive and accessible story about Littleton and its surrounding area.

America 250 - Colorado 150 Temporary Exhibit

Display Dates: January 30, 2026 - End of 2026

The Littleton Museum is proud to present a selection of objects from the museum’s collection of historic artifacts that celebrate both the 150th anniversary of Colorado’s statehood as well as the 250th anniversary of the founding of the nation. These items will be displayed in the main lobby of the museum as well as in a case in the History Gallery throughout 2026.

Celebrating milestone anniversaries in the United States of America has always been shaped by the historical events leading up to them. Immediately following the Revolutionary War, citizens recognized the significance of the nation’s founding and began collecting memorabilia from the era. America’s centennial in 1876 came just over a decade after the end of the Civil War, and leaders and citizens alike were looking for ways to reinvigorate national pride after a dark period in the country’s history. The result of this desire to raise American pride and morale was a huge exhibition in Philadelphia, demonstrating American advances in art, technology, agriculture, and the sciences. The Centennial Exhibition brought in over nine million visitors, and the boost in morale seems to have been successful, with one visitor noting that “no one can see the fair without a thrill of patriotic pride.”  

While Americans celebrated the country’s 100th anniversary on a national stage, Colorado was transitioning from a territory to full statehood. After four separate attempts beginning in 1864, Colorado officially became the Centennial State on August 1, 1876. Once they knew statehood was imminent, Coloradans started celebrating this milestone early with a parade in Denver on July 4, 1876. A grand total of 13 toasts were offered during the parade, honoring everything and everyone from the United States flag, Presidents Washington and Lincoln, Music, The People, The Press, and Women to name a few. 

By the time of the United States bicentennial  in 1976, the nation had experienced four wars, in addition to significant cultural and political upheaval. Despite all this, echoes of the sentiments from the previous anniversary celebrations  hearkened back to the patriotism surrounding the Revolutionary War. Communities across the nation came together and celebrated. 

In Colorado, a statewide commission was formed to oversee celebrations of the state’s centennial and to document local celebrations. In Littleton, citizens marked the occasion throughout the year with events like concerts, arts festivals, Western Welcome Week, and even an air show. 

As the nation commemorates the semiquincentennial – or 250th – anniversary of its founding throughout 2026, Colorado will be celebrating its 150th anniversary, called the “sesquicentennial.” Because Colorado is the only Centennial State, it is the only state that will observe dual anniversaries with commemorative events year-round. 

The Littleton Museum is proud to present a selection of objects from the museum’s collection of historic artifacts that celebrate both the 150th anniversary of Colorado’s statehood as well as the 250th anniversary of the founding of the nation. These items will be displayed in the main lobby of the museum as well as in a case in the History Gallery from January 30 through the end of 2026.

For more information on the celebrations, please visit: