Prattville to Host Free USA250 Exhibit at Doster Center

The Old Autauga Historical Society is organizing a large-scale, free public exhibit at the Doster Center from April 9–11, 2026, that will highlight 250 years of American history through more than 350 trifold displays created by local schools and community contributors. Exhibits will cover each decade since the nation’s founding and spotlight topics including military history, arts, science, music, clothing, food and technology.

The project has substantial participation from area schools: "We have over 1,400 students registered from schools in Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes, Butler, Montgomery, Macon and Bullock counties," said OAHS President Larry Caver. "We have fewer than 600 spots remaining and continue to receive reservations each week." Organizers report less than 200 school slots remain for the 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thursday timeslots and the 1 p.m. Friday timeslot, underscoring limited capacity for scheduled school visits.

Public access is staggered to prioritize seniors and accommodate school groups. Senior citizens will receive priority entry on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Public hours will follow school hours on Thursday and Friday, with general public access beginning at 3 p.m. those days. Saturday will offer full public hours from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The scheduling is designed to balance group visits with open community access while maximizing opportunities for student engagement.

Organizers are seeking community support to operate the three-day event. OAHS needs more than 20 volunteers to assist with setup, monitoring exhibits and visitor flow, and requests donated daily meals for volunteers. Community donations of sandwiches, finger foods, chips, cookies or drinks are encouraged to sustain volunteers across the event’s schedule.

For Autauga County, the exhibit represents both an educational resource and a modest economic opportunity. Large school group visits and weekend public attendance could boost foot traffic to downtown Prattville businesses and reinforce the Doster Center’s role as a civic venue. The multi-county student involvement also strengthens regional educational ties and offers local students a practical history project that complements classroom learning.

Residents interested in registering school groups, volunteering or contributing food are urged to contact the Old Autauga Historical Society; OAHS has established a Facebook group for event coordination and provides additional contact information for organizers. With limited slots remaining, schools and community members are advised to reserve spaces promptly.