Rare artifacts representing America's 250th birthday will be featured in major exhibition

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) in Richmond, Virginia, will be opening a new exhibit.

"Give Me Liberty" will commemorate America's 250th birthday, which will be celebrated July 4, 2026.

Rare artifacts dating back to the country's founding will be on display with the theme representing Patrick Henry's famed "Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death" speech.

VMHC president and CEO Jamie Bosket told Fox News Digital the museum is studying and sharing the American and Virginian story. 

"Its triumphs and tragedies, its successes and shortcomings - and reflect on the many voices that together forge one commonwealth and one nation," Bosket said.

Artifacts such as a silver hilted smallsword, tools, stamps and political objects will be on display.

Bosket added that "Give Me Liberty" explores the decade leading up to the Declaration of Independence.

"It also examines how the powerful ideas born in that era have continued to drive America's movement toward a more perfect union," he said.

The VMHC noted in a press release that everyday objects such as teapots and silver spoons were all emblazoned with "I Love Liberty."

The exhibit runs from March 22 to Jan. 4, 2026.