Georgia Humanities

Today, we celebrate 250 years.

On July 4, 1776, Georgia was one of thirteen colonies that declared independence—and Georgians have been defining the American story ever since.

All year long, Georgia Humanities has been marking America's Semiquincentennial with programming that brings our history to life: "Voices and Votes," a Smithsonian traveling exhibition on the history of American democracy, touring Georgia communities through March 2027; The Georgia Circuit, public conversations on Georgia's role in the Revolution and beyond; National History Day Georgia, where students explored "Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History"; and community grants supporting local programming in every congressional district.

Today’s milestone belongs to every Georgian. However you're celebrating, we hope you'll take a moment to reflect on the stories—250 years of them—that got us here.

What does democracy look like when it arrives in a small-town art center?

This week, we're finding out.

Today, Georgia Humanities arrived in Hartwell for the installation of Voices and Votes: Democracy in America, the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service that explores the people, movements, and moments that have shaped our nation's democratic journey.

After a successful run in Eatonton, Hartwell is the second Georgia community to host the exhibition as part of Georgia Humanities' Museum on Main Street program.

Today, the Hartwell Arts Center is being transformed with interactive displays, historical artifacts, photographs, videos, and stories that invite visitors to reflect on the history and future of civic participation in America.

We're excited to invite the community to join us for the Opening Reception on Saturday, June 6, from 5:00–8:00 PM. This special evening will celebrate the arrival of this nationally recognized Smithsonian exhibition and the local stories that connect Hartwell to the broader American democratic experience.

The exhibition will be on display June 7–July 19, 2026.

A heartfelt thank you to our local sponsor, Hart Telephone Company; Amanda Brown and the Hart County Chamber of Commerce; Jason Ford and the Hart County Development Authority; the Art Center of Hartwell; Hartwell Main Street; Discover Hartwell; and the many volunteers and community partners who have welcomed us so warmly and are helping bring this Smithsonian exhibition to life in Hartwell.

We can't wait to open the doors and welcome visitors to experience this remarkable exhibition.