Hillsdale College Students’ America 250 Exhibit on Display in Washtenaw County
The exhibit explores the meaning, history, and enduring relevance of five key documents from America’s founding.
HILLSDALE, Mich. — Two Hillsdale College students, Brian Knewtson ’25 and Hope Schlosser ’24, researched and assembled a traveling exhibit for the Washtenaw County Historical Consortium titled “America’s Founding Documents.” The exhibit honors the 250th anniversary of American independence by exploring the meaning, history, and enduring relevance of five key documents from America’s founding.
“It is exciting to see our students not only passionate about history but eager to share that passion with others,” said Professor of History David Stewart. “As we approach America’s 250th birthday, this exhibit helps people understand what makes America unique and worth celebrating.”
“As we approach America’s 250th birthday, this exhibit helps people understand what makes America unique and worth celebrating.”
The exhibit highlights the Declaration of Independence, the Federalist Papers, the Bill of Rights, the Northwest Ordinance, and the U.S. Constitution. Six copies of the exhibit will be on display at various locations in Washtenaw County throughout 2026.
“We are thrilled to bring this significant exhibit to our community,” Terry Cwik, president of the Washtenaw County Historical Consortium, said in a press release. “Understanding our foundational documents is essential to appreciating our nation’s journey, especially as we approach this historic 250th anniversary. We invite everyone to explore these pivotal moments in American history.”
In April of 2023, Cwik attended a museum poster display put on by Hillsdale College museum studies students. He approached Stewart about the Founding Documents project. When Stewart presented the opportunity to the class, Knewtson and Schlosser jumped at the chance. They completed the project as an independent study under Stewart’s direction, allowing them to earn college credit for their work.
“Understanding our foundational documents is essential to appreciating our nation’s journey.”
“They worked very well, both together and independently, and offered tremendous ideas as we worked through the process,” Stewart said. “The ultimate product very much reflects their vision and their efforts.”
The exhibit is presented by the Washtenaw County Historical Consortium and funded by America250MI and various local organizations. It is currently on display at the Dexter District Library, Salem-South Lyon District Library, and Ann Arbor District Library.
The Washtenaw County Historical Consortium is a collaborative group of historical organizations and institutions across Washtenaw County, Michigan. Its purpose is to share information and raise public awareness about the value of local history.