Via Community News Service, a University of Vermont journalism internship
MONTPELIER — On Friday, July 3, the Vermont Historical Society will open an exhibit detailing Vermont’s history through 50 objects to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Called “50 for 250,” the exhibit at the Vermont History Museum in Montpelier will display artifacts that aren’t normally seen by the public, telling stories of the past 250 years of Vermont’s history.
“It’s really great to see the single objects that aren’t usually on display often; it brings a unique experience,” Teresa Greene, a photographer for the exhibit’s accompanying “50 for 250” book, said. “The 250th isn’t just about 1776, but everything after that, too.”
Objects on display include a taxidermied catamount, a Revolutionary War musket, and a document signed by Thomas Jefferson admitting Vermont to the union.
The majority of items in the exhibit came from donors. Each object is accompanied by an explanation of what it is, how it was used, and what it tells about Vermont history. The book includes essays about each artifact and its significance in the history of the Green Mountain State. The essays were written by historical society staff, scholars, historians, interns, and even high school students.
Amanda Kay Gustin is the Vermont Historical Society’s director of collections and access. Gustin was also the main editor of the “50 for 250” book.
“It feels special because everyone put their heart and soul into the exhibit and book to honor and represent the collections at the Vermont Historical Society,” Gustin said.
Gustin contributed an essay about the Wilson Globe. The Wilson Globe was created by James Wilson of Bradford, who was the first globe maker in North America. Gustin traveled all over New England to research the essay.
Elise Guyette, a South Burlington-based historian and author, wrote an essay about a Japanese kimono. The kimono belonged to the Fukuda family, who came to Burlington right after World War II. During that time, only 200 Japanese people were allowed into the nation per year. However, when the Fukudas came to the U.S., they were allowed to bring their baby, making the group 201.
Guyette said that one of the meaningful aspects of the exhibit is how diverse it is.
“(Visitors are) going to run into stories that surprise them, because these are stories that haven’t been widely told in the state. That’s probably the most valuable part of that exhibit — running into Japanese immigrants, running into the KKK. These are stories that haven’t been told,” Guyette said.
According to Steve Perkins, executive director of the Vermont Historical Society, the exhibit’s goal was to cover all bases, including both celebratory artifacts and also artifacts that represent tougher times.
“Vermont history is very nuanced; there are many stories that make up our history. There are multiple perspectives, sometimes even on the very same event. It is also ongoing: History informs the present, it informs the future, and we’re constantly creating history every day,” he said. “This isn’t just 50 artifacts from 200 years ago — the newest artifact is from five years ago.”
Vermont Historical Society member Amy Lilly, of Burlington, said her favorite artifact was the Fukuda family kimono.
“I’ve lived in Vermont for about 26 years. There is a certain affection and fascinating picture of the many eras since Vermont’s formation. The stories about Vermonters and the objects they handled are interesting. They tell a story,” Lilly said.
The exhibit will include a tour for children with educational activities. There will also be a museum audio tour, including behind-the-scenes stories about the exhibit. The audio will also be available in many different languages, making it more accessible to the general public.
The exhibit will be open through June 2027.