Summer 2026  |

America at 250 :

A Public History Road Trip

In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States, Everything is a Primary Source is taking to the road. This summer, I will travel from Chicago to Colorado Springs, recording place-based podcast episodes and collecting short oral histories from members of the public along the way.

This is not a retrospective project. It is a living one, built on the idea that history is not only something we inherit, but something we actively interpret.

America at 250: A Public History Road Trip

Recording stories. Collecting oral histories. Exploring how Americans understand their past — in real time.

What This Project Is

Each episode will be recorded on location, rooted in the landscapes, institutions, and communities that shape the American story. Geography matters. Context matters. Place is a primary source.

Place-Based Storytelling

Some episodes will feature historians, curators, educators, and subject-matter experts. Others will spotlight impromptu “drop-in” guests; everyday Americans reflecting on the objects, music, memories, and media that has shaped their day-to-day lives. Both perspectives are essential.

Expert & Public Voices

Along the route, I will invite individuals to contribute short oral histories connected to artifacts or experiences, and in doing so help define what it means to be American. These recordings will form a growing archive tied to the America 250 moment.

Oral Histories in Real Time

Rather than treating the semiquincentennial as a commemorative endpoint, this project models inquiry: asking how we know what we know, who tells the story, and how meaning is constructed.

Civic Inquiry for the 250th

Reconnect with your body and mind as you escape the noise of everyday life.
Day One

Arrive & Meet

As everyone arrives, we take time to settle in, get comfortable, and begin connecting with those around us. The journey starts here.

Check-In

9:00 – 9:30am

Group Activity

11:00am

Lunch Break

12:30pm

Creative Workshop

2:00pm

Dinner

6:30pm

Day Two

Set Intentions & Reflect

Together, we pause to consider our goals, hopes, and direction. This is about aligning with ourselves and with the journey ahead. This is a chance to reconnect with what brought you here—your questions, your hopes, your turning points—and consider how they’ve shifted or deepened.

Check-In

9:00 – 9:30am

Group Activity

11:00am

Lunch Break

12:30pm

Creative Workshop

2:00pm

Dinner

6:30pm

Day Three

Look Forward & Wrap Up

We explore the possibilities beyond this moment, making space for growth, action, and forward momentum. As we end our time together, we honor the experience, the growth, and the connections made along the way.

Check-In

9:00 – 9:30am

Group Activity

11:00am

Lunch Break

12:30pm

Creative Workshop

2:00pm

Dinner

6:30pm

  • "What I love most is the flexibility. I can go at my own pace, revisit lessons, and keep learning whenever it works for me."

    Former Customer

  • "Even as a total beginner, I never felt lost. The step-by-step structure and encouragement along the way made all the difference."

    Former Customer

  • "This has been such a worthwhile investment in myself."

    Former Customer

How It Works

  • Browse our upcoming events to find the one that feels right for you. We host events year-round in all different locations and climates.

  • Sign up and pay all required fees to reserve your spot. If plans change, you can cancel up to 14 days before the retreat start to receive a 50% refund.

  • After booking, we'll send you a Welcome Packet with everything you need to know—detailed schedules, packing list recommendations, add-ons to consider, and more.

  • We'd recommend booking your transportation to and from the event as soon as possible, to ensure you can arrive without any complications or delays.

  • Now all that's left to do is pack your bags and get excited for your new adventure.

Book Your Stay

Register