City of Columbia welcomes America250’s “Our American Story” nationwide initiative to the Capital City
May 26, 2026
The City of Columbia invites residents and visitors to take part in a unique opportunity to help tell the story of America as the America250 initiative brings its nationwide “Our American Story” tour to Columbia on Tuesday, May 26, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at First Citizens Green, 1213 Lady Street.
As part of a yearlong cross-country journey, Our American Story is traveling across the nation in a mobile storytelling experience designed to capture personal stories and reflections from people in communities large and small. From bustling cities to rural towns, the initiative is creating a living collection of voices that reflect the American experience leading up to the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
The Columbia stop will give community members the opportunity to share personal memories, family traditions, stories of resilience, reflections on civic life, or what it means to be an American today. Participants’ stories will become part of a historic archive that will ultimately be preserved by the Library of Congress, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
The Our American Story tour utilizes mobile recording studios traveling across the country to document voices from communities nationwide. Throughout the year, stops will include community centers, civic landmarks and locations across America where people can record interviews and preserve their perspectives as part of this national storytelling effort.
Conversations will be recorded and archived, and a portion will be preserved at the Library of Congress, ensuring these voices become a permanent part of the American record.
The City of Columbia encourages residents, families, students and visitors to stop by First Citizens Green, welcome the America250 team to the capital city and become part of this once-in-a-generation opportunity to help tell America’s story.
Event Details
What: America250 “Our American Story” Tour Stop
When: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: First Citizens Green, 1213 Lady Street, Columbia, SC, 29201
For additional information about the initiative, visit America250’s Our American Story program online at https://america250.org/our-american-story.
