Curious about our past exhibits or want to relive a display you visited previously? View an archive of former temporary displays and events here.
50/50 Half a Century of History – Celebrating History Museum on the Square 50th Anniversary
50/50 Half a Century of History – History Museum on the Square Celebrates the past to move into the Future Opens October 8, 2025 – January 4, 2026 The History Museum on the Square is turning 50, and we’re celebrating with a year of special events, starting with our Birthday Bash on October 7th! This…
Rediscover the Magic of the Mother Road: Route 66 Roadside Gems
The History Museum on the Square invites visitors to explore the spirit of the roadside adventure with its newest temporary exhibit, Roadside Gems: Rediscovering Route 66’s Cultural Attractions. Opening July 2 and on display through September 14, this is the fourth installment in the museum’s five-part Route 66 exhibit series leading up to the national…
Creating Communities: Jews of Springfield
The History Museum on the Square is proud to announce the opening of its newest temporary exhibit, Creating Community: Jews of Springfield. This captivating exhibit delves into the rich history and contributions of Springfield’s Jewish community, tracing their journey from the 1860s to today. The exhibit is open to the public from February 5, 2024 through…
Democracy in Action!
Democracy in Action! This exhibit connects citizens of all ages to the history of civic engagement in our community. From voting rights to activism, visitors will explore the concepts that our democracy was built on and learn about ways they can participate today. With the Civics on the Square program, the museum has identified four…
Checking In: Iconic Hotels & Motels of Greene County
Checking In: Iconic Hotels & Motels of Greene County Discover the stories of iconic lodgings along Route 66 that shaped our region, from charming cabins to landmark hotels. Checking In! is the third of five annual exhibits featuring the history, culture, and impact of Route 66. The Route 66 Series will culminate with The Mother…
Springfield’s Leading Ladies: Creating Legacies
Springfield’s Leading Ladies: Creating Legacies March 9, 2024 – June 2, 2024 This temporary exhibit will run until June 2nd, inviting visitors to explore the profound impact of women in business, politics, and community organizations throughout Springfield’s history. Springfield’s Leading Ladies: Creating Legacies delves into the inspiring stories of resilient trailblazers who left an indelible mark…
Christmas on the Square
Step into a bygone era and immerse yourself in the enchanting charm of historic Christmas celebrations on the Square with a modern twist. The History Museum on the Square is delighted to unveil a nostalgic vignette that celebrates downtown Springfield’s cherished holiday traditions and introduces a new window display that will capture your heart. Welcome…
Service with a Smile: Route 66 Service Stations
Service with a Smile: Route 66 Service Stations celebrates the service stations and people who ran them along Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri. Service with a Smile! is the second of five annual exhibits featuring the history, culture, and impact of Route 66. The Route 66 Series will culminate with The Mother Road’s 100th birthday…
Beyond the Camouflage: Global Uniforms |Local Stories
Beyond The Camouflage: Global Uniforms | Local Stories This is a temporary exhibition in the History Museum on the Square’s Voices of History Gallery. This exhibition showcases uniforms from across the globe and throughout time to tell stories of veterans and service members from our community. The History Museum on the Square is honored to…
Community Cornerstones: Springfield’s Black Educators
Community Cornerstones: Springfield’s Black Educators showcases the rich history of Black American education in Springfield through the lens of the educators who were the cornerstones of the Black community before desegregation. Experience the enlightening story of Springfield’s Black educational history and its connection to a national conversation. Image: William Harrison “W.H.” McAdams, the first Principal…