Moments That Made Us
A free, customizable, print-on-demand exhibition for every community
What is Moments That Made US?
On July 4, 2026, the nation will mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Moments That Made US is a free, customizable, print-on-demand exhibition exploring the ideals at the heart of the Declaration of Independence through moments in our history that have defined their meaning. It does so in a user-friendly format that organizations can adapt, afford, and make their own.
This commemoration is a chance for every community, large or small, to come together with a shared purpose in reflecting on the past and building stronger, more connected communities in the future. Moments That Made US will ensure that every interested institution can access compelling content in 2026.
Because the majority of the content on the “core” panels is the intellectual property of History Colorado, all organizations wishing to use this exhibition must digitally sign a use agreement with History Colorado before accessing the files. Once you have signed, you will have access to a private web page and corresponding password to download the exhibition materials.
Webinar
Join WSHS staff for an online webinar on Tuesday, March 31 at 10 a.m. to walk through the MTMU Implementation Guide and answer any questions!
How does it work?
Exhibition Kit
The kit includes digital files for 33 ready-to-use exhibit panels. There is one introductory panel, a panel featuring an image of the Declaration of Independence, five “thematic” panels, five “historic moments” panels for each theme, and a reflection panel.
Planners have intentionally designed this exhibition to allow organizations to consider their space and audience, and display as many or as few of the provided panels as desired. Mix-and-match the ready-to-use content to create your own version of the core exhibition, large or small.
Templates are also be available for users to add their own local stories and content.
The digital files are free to use, so printing and mounting are the only out-of-pocket expenses to participating organizations.
Sample Panels
Implementation Guide
For more information about the exhibition project, content, and how it will work, and ideas for customizing it for your community, download the Moments that Made US Implementation Guide.
(Download PDF)
How Do I Host Moments That Made US?
Let us Know You're Interested
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Connect With Your Statewide Partner
See below to learn who is distributing Moments That Made US in your state to start coordinating and share your interest with them.
Get the Details
Available in fall 2025, we’ll release a detailed “how to” guide that will include content outlines, materials specs, and basic project instructions.
Plan Your Exhibition
Using the detailed “how to” guide, you’ll see what topics the ready-to-use panels will cover and will be able to start deciding how many panels you want to display (or will have room for!) and whether you want to add local content.
Download the Digital Kit
Available in early 2026, access the ready-to-use files, templates for customization, and additional customization guidance from your statewide partner.
Customize (optional)
Tell your local stories by using the blank template to add your own text, photos, or even QR-linked oral histories. If your organization has a collection, we’ll provide ideas for objects you might exhibit alongside the panels.
Print or Pixel
Bring it to life in your space by printing the files as posters, foam-core panels, or vinyl banners in whatever size/scale works for you. Or, go digital by displaying the files on monitors or setting up a touchscreen kiosk.
Launch and Engage
Host an opening program, invite student field trips, or spark community conversations using the included discussion and program tips.
Thank You to Our Statewide Partners
Our statewide partners are committed to facilitating this opportunity in their state by helping with distribution of the files and being their state’s point-of-contact for questions or inquiries from the public.
We continue to welcome new state partners. Any community in any state can access the ready-to-use content and create their own customizations.
