"America250’s mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. We aim to inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America."

To kick off our America 250 Celebration, the Jasper County Historical Society is hosting a meeting of local historians from Jasper and Newton County. The meeting, at the museum, is on January 10 at 10AM with Tamara Hemmerlein from the Indiana Historical Society as the guest speaker. If you did not receive an invite but are interested in being involved in our 250 programs, contact us.

We hope to later in the Spring host Tamara Hemmerlein again to an open meeting at the Rensselaer Library. She is an expert in preserving artifacts and will come to share her knowledge. Preservation kits will also be available to buy at this meeting, open to the general public. Stay tuned for date and time. 

In May the Jasper County Historical Society will kick off their Photo Scavenger Hunt Contest. Ten clues to historic structures in Jasper County will be available and entrants will take a picture in front of each. The contest will end on July 1 with prizes awarded on July 3. Clues will be available at your local library and other locations around the County. We’re looking forward to sharing our County’s History in this way.