Celebrating America at 250

A Yearlong Series of Auctions, Previews, and Events Honoring the Nation’s Artistic and Cultural Legacy

In 2026, the United States marks 250 years since its founding. To commemorate this milestone, Freeman’s—America’s oldest auction house, founded in Philadelphia—presents a yearlong series of auctions and programs showcasing significant art, objects, books, and documents from across the nation’s history.

The Semiquincentennial offers a moment to reflect on the ideas, creativity, and material culture that have shaped the United States. Drawing on more than two centuries of experience, Freeman’s brings together exceptional works that illuminate the nation’s story—from its earliest years to the present day.

Join us virtually for a special panel discussion and auction preview exploring the art of collecting printed and manuscript Americana, held in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Featuring insights from Revolutionary War historian Dr. Philip C. Mead, Abraham Lincoln expert Daniel R. Weinberg, and Freeman’s specialists Darren Winston and Christopher Brink. January 27 | 5:30–7:30 PM

A Year of Commemorative Sales

Freeman’s 2026 program will begin in mid-January and unfold through a series of landmark auctions in Philadelphia, New York City, and Chicago.

Printed and Manuscript Americana | January 29, Philadelphia

Freeman’s Philadelphia saleroom will present a dedicated auction of Printed & Manuscript Americana, featuring significant books, maps, archives, and historical documents. This sale highlights pivotal cultural moments in early American history and includes major material related to Presidential history, timed in honor of Presidents’ Day.

(Left to Right: Lot 148 | [Washington, George] Washington, George. Autograph Letter, signed; Lot 29 | [American Revolution] Hancock, John. Manuscript Document, signed; Lot 23 | [American Revolution] (Dickinson, John, and Thomas Jefferson). A Declaration...setting forth the Causes and Necessity of their taking up Arms )

The Fathers and Saviors of Our Country: A Presidents Sale — March 26, Chicago

In March, Freeman’s will present The Founder and the Savior of Our Country: The Presidents Sale, a multi-category, various-owner auction anchored by several important private collections. Centered around George Washington—the founder—and Abraham Lincoln—the savior—alongside material relating to other influential presidents, this sale will explore leadership, legacy, and the evolving vision that shaped the republic.

(Left to Right: View Sale | Charles Alfred Barry (American, 1830-1892) The Greek God, 1892; CURRIER AND IVES, publishers. -- After G. Thomas. Washington and Lincoln: The Father and the Saviour of Our Country. 1865.)

American Furniture, Folk & Decorative Arts | April 28, Philadelphia 

Coinciding with the Pennsylvania Antiques Show, Freeman’s will present a curated auction of American Furniture, Folk & Decorative Arts spanning more than three centuries. Works range from the late 17th century through the 20th century, with examples from the Mid-Atlantic, New England, the South, and the Midwest.

Each piece reflects the craftsmanship and cultural evolution foundational to the American experience.

(View Sale | Antonio Jacobsen (American/Danish, 1850-1921) Bristol Paddle Steamer )

How History Unfolds on Paper: Important Americana from the Eric C. Caren Collection, Part X |  June 30, Philadelphia

On June 30, Freeman’s will hold How History Unfolds on Paper: Important Americana from the Eric C. Caren Collection, Part X, a single-owner auction representing one of the most extensive documentations of American history in private hands. The collection spans the period before national independence through westward expansion, the Civil War and Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Movement, and into the 21st century.

(View Sale | Jefferson, Thomas. Autograph letter, signed to Marquis Chastellux) Malden, Charles Robert. | Log book kept by Midshipman Charles R. Malden, RN, aboard the HMS Trave, May 1814 to May 1816.

JOIN THE CELEBRATION

Upcoming Programming and Events: 

Americana Week at Freeman’s
January 23–28, 2026 | 32 East 67th Street, New York, NY

As part of Americana Week in New York, Freeman’s will host a series of previews and public events at its Upper East Side gallery, offering visitors an exclusive look at highlights from the firm’s upcoming 2026 Semiquincentennial Americana auctions. Attendees will have the opportunity to view historically significant works and engage with leading scholars and specialists in the field of American history and material culture.

A featured panel discussion on January 27, 2026, will explore the historical context and cultural importance of the works on view. Panelists include Daniel Weinberg, noted Abraham Lincoln expert, lecturer, and author; Philip C. Mead, Ph.D., former Chief Historian and Curator of the Museum of the American Revolution; and Freeman’s Senior Specialists Darren Winston and Christopher Brink. The discussion will offer expert insights into American history, provenance, and the significance of these rare objects. Following the New York event, Freeman’s will present the panel discussion again in Chicago in March 2026.

Consign Now!

• Freeman’s is currently accepting consignments of important American property that reflects the breadth and complexity of the national narrative—from the Founding Fathers to contemporary visionaries. Consign today!

Bid In Person or Online!

• See here, for step-by-step guidance on bidding, registration, and participating in our auctions — whether online, by phone, or in person.

Stay Informed

• Highlights and featured lots will be added as they become available throughout the year. Or sign up for our weekly newsletter.

Press and More Information

• Read our full press release here.