Congressman Souder to Speak at Exhibit Opening

The Elkhart County Historical Museum is pleased to announce that Congressman Mark Souder will be in attendance at the opening of their new temporary exhibit Campaigning for President, which opens tomorrow, Friday, February 27. The exhibit will be unveiled at 4:00 p.m. with a ribbon cutting ceremony. At 5:00 p.m. Mayor Dick Moore of Elkhart will speak followed by Congressman Souder. The New Horizons band will bring the program to a close with patriotic music. The exhibit will be open for viewing until 7:00 p.m.

This exhibit demonstrates how Elkhart County has supported presidential candidates through party traditions and the eventual outcomes of the election. Presidential election results from 1832 to 2008 will be shown, including a comparison of the national outcome compared to Elkhart County. Republicans generally won Elkhart County, but occasionally Democrats gained the majority. Interesting occurrences like lantern parades, public debates, and presidential visits to Elkhart County, as well as information on how local residents viewed the Lincoln-Douglass debates or mourned assassinations will be discussed.

The exhibit will also feature notable artifacts and manuscripts from the Elkhart County Historical Society’s collection, private collectors, and other regional museums. Over 100 items will be displayed including buttons, ribbons, posters, and banners from 1854 to the present.

Interpretive features will target adults and children. Visitors can test their presidential knowledge by matching slogans with candidates, and visitors will have an opportunity to take the Presidential Oath of Office. Children can also participate in an “I Spy” activity to find and learn about items on display.