With the United States on the cusp of its 250th Independence anniversary, Williamson County is welcoming a traveling exhibit that brings the American Revolution into the present.
America250 Arrives at Williamson Museum
The American Revolution Experience Traveling Exhibit, known as America250, first opened its doors at the Williamson Museum from December 10 to December 20. Danelle Houck, Executive Director of the museum, welcomed visitors and explained that the exhibit is “really celebrating the history and the beginning of America.” She noted that settlers who arrived in 1848 when Williamson County was founded had revolutionary ties that the exhibit highlights.
From Museum to Libraries
After its debut, the exhibit moved to the Georgetown Public Library and the Round Rock Public Library from December 21 to January 2. The split tour allows a broader audience to explore artifacts and stories that trace the county’s early settlers back to the Revolutionary era. The transition also underscores the exhibit’s goal of connecting past and present residents.
Voices from the Community
Allison Davis, a resident of Williamson County, shared her personal connection to the Revolution. “My great great great grandfather, Aaron Robins Jr-his grandfather served in the American Revolution. We know this because he testified to that both in an article in the Williamson County Sun and in a biographical sketch that was compiled for Williamson, Travis, Bell and Milam counties,” Davis said. A photo of Aaron Robbins Jr. is displayed at the Williamson County Historical Courthouse. Davis expressed pride and awe, saying, “I’m sure there was a lot of risk in choosing that path. There’s a risk in choosing to be a patriot or a loyalist. I’m just so proud they kind of stepped out in order to create of the free country that we live in today.”
Celebrating Heritage and Future
The exhibit is sponsored by the Daniel Coleman Chapter of the Texas Society Daughters of the American Revolution. Williamson County also purchased panels that showcase the contributions of the forefathers of its early settlers. Houck added, “It’s good to learn where we came from so that we know where we’re going in the future. It really informs what we do so we can learn from people in the past, and we’re excited to celebrate at Williamson County.”
Key Takeaways
- America250 travels across Texas, stopping in Williamson County until January 2.
- The exhibit highlights the county’s Revolutionary ties through artifacts, stories, and personal family histories.
- Sponsorship by the Daniel Coleman Chapter of the Texas Society Daughters of the American Revolution supports the exhibit’s educational mission.
The traveling exhibit invites residents and visitors alike to reflect on the sacrifices that shaped the nation and to recognize how those early decisions continue to influence the community’s identity today.
