By David Markham

Just in time for America’s 250th anniversary, the Johnson County Museum is presenting a new temporary exhibit which explores this national moment and the meaning of democracy through the lens of life in Johnson County.

“Everyday Democracy: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness in Johnson County” opened in early February and will run through Jan. 9, 2027.

“The main thrust of the exhibit is a look at how people living in what is now Johnson County lived out the ideals stated in our Declaration of Independence: ‘Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness,’” said Curator of Interpretation Andrew R. Gustafson.

“What does it look like for individuals to seek happiness? To do so in a community where not everyone agrees? To strive toward liberty for all? ‘Everyday Democracy’ examines those issues in an intensely local way.”

The exhibit explores American ideals in 50-year segments – 1776, 1826, 1876, 1926, 1976 and 2026. Visitors can see how Johnson Countians’ priorities for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness have changed – and also how they have remained the same. It also features two futurist elements, one in the exhibit and another in a community art exhibition through April 26 in which local artists imagine the future of democracy through 2076.

“Everyday Democracy” was developed with research and loans drawn from institutions, including the Library of Congress, National Archives, Smithsonian museums, National Gallery of Art, University of Kansas Libraries, Shawnee Town, Johnson County Archives and the Olathe Public Library.

In addition to the in-person exhibit, this exhibition will also be launched online, making the content accessible for those who may not be able to make it to the museum. A book of the exhibit will also be available in the Museum Store.

Entry to the special exhibit is included with museum admission, which is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for children. Located in the Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, 8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, museum hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

David Markham is a communications specialist at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.