We have shared a lot about the many projects and initiatives coming in this AM250/CO150 Celebration. But did you know that Meeker has been selected as one of only five communities in Colorado to host a prestigious Smithsonian traveling exhibition, bringing a nationally recognized museum experience to the White River Valley in 2026. “The Americans,” developed by the Smithsonian Institution, will be on display in Meeker from May through June of 2026.
The exhibit is part of Museums on Main Street, a program of the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service offered in Colorado through History Colorado. The program is designed to bring high-quality exhibitions to rural communities while encouraging dialogue around history, culture, and shared identity.
In Meeker, the exhibit will be housed at the Old West Heritage Culture Center, 517 Park Avenue, which is part of the Rio Blanco County Historical Society (RBCHS) campus, adjacent to the White River Museum. The location will allow the Historical Society to expand its interpretive offerings and host a wide range of educational and community events during the exhibit’s run.
“The Americans” is being presented in Meeker in conjunction with the community’s Sesquisemiquincentennial, with a special focus on recognizing the role of Indigenous culture and Native peoples in the history of the region. The exhibit invites visitors to explore the diverse voices and experiences that shape the American story and encourages reflection on how those stories connect to local history.
Throughout the two-month exhibition, RBCHS plans to offer guest speakers, evening programs, community discussions, and school tours. Educational programming will be available for local students, providing access to Smithsonian-quality content and opportunities for deeper engagement with history and culture.
The Rio Blanco County Historical Society is currently working to raise funds to support the exhibit and its associated programming. Support is being sought through memberships, donations, and sponsorships, all of which will help ensure the exhibit is accessible to the entire community.
In addition, RBCHS is seeking volunteers to assist with a variety of roles, including building preparation, exhibit setup, and serving as docents during the exhibit. Organizers note that community involvement will be key to the success of the project.
Hosting a Museums on Main Street exhibition represents a significant achievement for Meeker and reflects the community’s ongoing commitment to historical preservation, education, and cultural stewardship.
Additional details—including specific dates, event schedules, and volunteer opportunities—will be announced as the exhibit opening approaches. Updates will be shared through the Rio Blanco County Historical Society and the White River Museum.
Teresia R Reed ED
Rio Blanco County Historical Society
565 Park, P.O. Box 413
Meeker, CO 81641
970-878-9982
By TERESIA R. REED
