Ephraim, Wis. (June 9, 2026) — As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, the Ephraim Historical Foundation invites the community to participate in a Wish Wall, a nationwide initiative capturing Americans’ hopes and dreams for the future.
Visitors can stop by the Anderson Barn Museum (3060 Anderson Lane Ephraim, WI) to add a personal wish — from small acts of kindness to big visions for change — for the next 50 years. The initiative, coordinated by Made By Us and rolled out nationwide across dozens of museums, libraries, parks, community hubs and gatherings, creates a powerful experience for individuals to participate in envisioning – and then shaping – the future.
Since the summer of 2025, more than 135 Wish Walls have been held and more are planned, from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History and The New York Historical to smaller, local hosts. Visitors can also add their wish online at OnOur250th.org, hosted by a collective of 25 museums.
“The Wish Wall gives everyone a voice in imagining what comes next,” said Kajsa Anderson, Outreach & Engagement Manager. “It’s a simple act of hope — and a collective snapshot of what we value most as a nation.”
“We are so glad to have people from so many different backgrounds and perspectives participate in the Wish Wall experience,” said Caroline Klibanoff, Executive Director at Made By Us. “We all have a role to play in shaping history, and these installations offer everyone an easy way to get started.”
Wish Walls across the country are accompanied by civic dialogue programs, volunteering opportunities, creative performances and educational events. In addition to an interactive Wish Wall, the Ephraim Historical Foundation will also be hosting a “Slice of History” Pizza Party on June 30th from 5-7 pm inside the Anderson Barn Museum in celebration of Civic Season and America’s 250th. We will have free pizza, exhibit tours, and more!
Every summer, between Juneteenth and July 4th, communities across the country come together for Civic Season – an annual tradition developed by museums and young people to “school up” on history and “skill up” to shape our future. Held between our newest and oldest federal holidays, Civic Season kicks off the year ahead with events, activities and celebrations.
The U.S. 250th anniversary arrives just as the largest youth generation in American history enters adulthood. We’re inviting young people to write the next chapter of our nation’s story with Civic Season programs like Slice of History Pizza Parties and National Youth Takeover Day, fueled by Youth250.
The Anderson Barn Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM during the summer.
Find a Wish Wall near you at https://thecivicseason.com/wish-walls. For more information, visit OnOur250th.org or ephraim.org.
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