The National Archives has selected HistoryMiami Museum in Downtown Miami as one of eight museums nationwide to host the National Archives’ “Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation,” a traveling exhibition marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. HistoryMiami dates are June 20-July 5.
Announced recently by the National Archives and Records Administration, the “Freedom Plane National Tour” will bring original Founding-era documents to communities across the country throughout 2026. Inspired by the Bicentennial Freedom Train, the exhibition expands public access to records fundamental to the nation’s founding, many of which have not traveled outside Washington, DC, in decades.
The documents will travel together and arrive to much fanfare on June 15, via a specially designated aircraft. HistoryMiami Museum will host the exhibition June 20 through July 5 presenting Miamians, Floridians, and visitors to the state with a rare opportunity to experience these historic documents firsthand on the very day it celebrates America’s semiquincentennial year, July 4.
“Hosting the Freedom Plane National Tour is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Natalia Crujeiras, president and CEO of HistoryMiami Museum. “These documents belong to all Americans. Presenting them in Miami, a global city shaped by democratic ideals and extraordinary diversity, creates a powerful space for reflection on our nation’s origins and its ongoing promise. We are excited to give the community an opportunity to experience and reflect on the people who laid the foundations for this great country.”
Original National Archives records featured in the exhibition include:
• The William Stone engraving of the Declaration of Independence
• The Articles of Association
• Oaths of Allegiance signed by George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Aaron Burr
• The Treaty of Paris
• A draft printing of the Constitution
• State delegation votes
As part of the celebration, the Museum also will unveil a digital mural where guests can share their “Wishes for America” both in the museum and from home. This dynamic, ever-evolving participatory experience invites people across Miami to share their hopes for the future.
Guests also can celebrate the nation’s birthday on the HistoryMiami plaza on July 4, with a special birthday party for America. The exhibition and celebration are free to attend.
“As our nation prepares to mark its 250th anniversary, it is deeply meaningful that Miami has been chosen as one of only eight cities to host the Freedom Plane National Tour,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Bringing these founding-era documents to our community affirms that America’s story belongs to everyone. Through our own local initiative, a countywide committee has been established to commemorate this historic milestone, and this exhibition at HistoryMiami Museum will serve as a powerful cornerstone — inviting residents and visitors alike to engage directly with the ideals of freedom, democracy, and opportunity that continue to shape our diverse and dynamic county. I am proud that Miami-Dade is helping carry this national legacy forward.”
To accompany HistoryMiami Museum’s presentation of the National Archives exhibition “Documents that Forged a Nation,” the museum is proud to launch “America 250: Voices of the Future,” a countywide high school speech contest celebrating the semiquincentennial of the United States. This premier youth oratorical competition invites Miami-Dade students to reflect on the enduring ideals of America’s founding documents and articulate how those principles can shape a more just and inclusive future. The winning essay will be accessioned into HistoryMiami Museum’s permanent collection, and the student will be invited to present their speech during official events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The” Freedom Plane National Tour” is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation, through the support of The Boeing Company, Comcast Corporation, Microsoft, and P&G, with additional support from FedEx.
HistoryMiami is located at 101 W. Flagler St. in Downtown Miami; museum tickets will be free to the public during the duration of the exhibition.
About HistoryMiami Museum
Founded in 1940, HistoryMiami Museum is one of the oldest cultural institutions in Miami and a Smithsonian Affiliate. It is committed to preserving and celebrating the rich history of the city, its people, and its diverse communities. With a mission to provide inclusive spaces for dialogue and reflection, the museum creates immersive exhibitions and educational programs that engage visitors in meaningful explorations of Miami’s past, present and future.
The museum’s extensive collections — comprising over 30,000 artifacts and more than two million images — offer a deep dive into the stories that shape Miami’s identity. In addition to exhibitions and collections, HistoryMiami offers public programs, community initiatives, and special events that encourage civic engagement and highlight what makes Miami, Miami.
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