Amanda Pevey
Elmore Autauga News
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, history is stepping off the page and into the hands of students, families and volunteers in Autauga County.
The Old Autauga Historical Society is continuing its “USA 250: Chronicles of America” celebration this weekend, transforming the Doster Center into a living timeline of the nation’s past — from 1776 to today.
The free, two-day event, held at 424 South Northington St., features interactive exhibits, historical reenactors and live performances designed to bring American history to life. Doors open Friday afternoon and will continue Saturday with a full day of programming.
“This is our second day at the Chronicles of America,” said Larry Caver, president of the Old Autauga Historical Society. “Today, over 1200 students attended from counties across central Alabama. It included the eight counties serviced by Mid-South RC&D, which are Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes, Butler, Montgomery, Bullock, Macon and Lee. However, we have had additional schools from Chilton County, Monroe County, that have come, and students as far away as Talladega. We are really excited for everyone to come.”
Organizers say the event blends education and entertainment, offering visitors a sweeping look at American history through immersive displays and performances, including appearances by the Alabama Children’s Theatre. Exhibits also highlight Native American history and culture, ensuring a broad and inclusive view of the nation’s story.
“All of these posters were made by members of the Old Autauga Historical Society, but also other local clubs, and some of the students that are here today,” said Caver. “The poster board displays start from 1776 through 2026.”
The event has drawn strong community support, both in attendance and funding. Mid-South RC&D played a key role in making student experience possible.
“In 2025, Caver applied for a grant for OAHS, but Mid-South RC&D was not able to fund it because it was a sponsorship,” said Pam Hughes, executive director with Mid-South RC&D. “I went to our board and stated we should do it as sponsorship and we could fund it internally, which they did.”
The organization contributed $11,119.66, to cover transportation costs, helping bring roughly 2,000 students from eight counties to the event.
Additional support came from local leaders and community sponsors, including Senator Clyde Chambliss, House Representatives Van Smith and Jerry Starnes. Mrs. Gerri Langston, Andy Wendland Family, and many provide donors also contributed. Other sponsors include, Daughters of the American Revolution, Sons of American Revolution, Day Structures, and Central Alabama Electric Co-Op.
In addition, Caver also had enough funding to purchase some of the boards and trinkets for the children.
“This was a huge group effort. The students get to learn all about the history of 250 years, and it has been a wonderful day,” Hughes said.
Chambliss reflected on the significance of the milestone, connecting past celebrations with the present.
“It was a very important time in our nation’s history,” said Chambliss. “I was seven years old when we had our 200th anniversary. So now our 250th, and I am looking forward to the 300th celebration. I really appreciate Larry and all the folks who have volunteered so much time, effort, and energy to pull all of this together as well as our partners as well.”
Beyond the exhibits, visitors can also explore the Old Autauga Room inside the Doster Center, which houses artifacts tied to the county’s local heritage — a reminder that national history is often best understood through community stories.
As the weekend continues, organizers hope the experience leaves a lasting impression on those who attend.
“I want to thank all of the many sponsors who contributed to this wonderful event and made this event possible,” said Caver.
For many, the celebration is more than a commemoration, it is an invitation to see history not as distant and abstract, but as something alive, shared and still unfolding 250 years later.
