Life, Liberty & the Pursuit of Happiness – Community Connections Exhibit

America’s 250th anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the ideals that have shaped generations of Americans and communities across the country. Opening May 23 at the Lyon County History Center, Life, Liberty & the Pursuit of Happiness is a new community connection exhibit exploring one simple but meaningful question: What does life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness mean to you? For nearly 250 years, these words from the Declaration of Independence have inspired debate, hope, change, and personal reflection. But their meaning has never been one-size-fits-all. For some, they may be represented through family traditions, military service, education, hard work, faith, immigration stories, personal freedoms, or treasured heirlooms passed from generation to generation. This exhibit invites our community to help tell that story. Life, Liberty & the Pursuit of Happiness On display: May 23 – August 1, 2026 Lyon County History Center 711 Commercial St., Emporia, KS