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ArtsArlington 250

ArtsArlington 250

Once there was a town called “Menotomy.”

ArtsArlington is a proud partner in Arlington 250, a multi-year commemoration of the semiquincentennial of the American Revolution and Declaration of Independence. An homage to “Untold Stories of Menotomy” (Arlington’s Colonial-era name), Arlington 250 seeks to elevate our town’s little-known but critical role in the War’s very first day, April 19, 1775. In signature projects and special events below, as well as grant support to artists and partnership with organizations townwide, ArtsArlington is using the lens of arts and culture to examine and amplify the stories of our town over the past 250 years, and look ahead to the next 250! Explore, connect, and join in the commemorations we’ll be adding here right through July 4, 2026!

Featured Projects

UNSEEN/
UNFORGOTTEN

Artist Chris Frost has created five sculptural pedestals inscribed with common colonial occupations – farmer, midwife, carpenter, miller and teacher. Cast in cement, the pedestals serve as a reminder that ordinary folk were behind the heroes of the Revolution.

PEOPLE PLANTS & REVOLUTION

Welcome to People, Plants and Revolution, a multimedia public art project organized by ArtsArlington to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution in Arlington. We explore colonial life and some of the stories, legends, and history surrounding the revolutionary events of April 18 and 19, 1775 – all through the lens of plants.

THEN & NOW

An accomplished artist, designer and storyteller, Nilou Moochhala set out to highlight a variety of significant moments in her hometown’s evolution over the centuries. Drawing inspiration from the work of Arlington historians and the Arlington Historical Society, Moochhala has chosen 25 key events for her timeline.

PAYING HOMAGE

The Princeton Sankofa Stitchers Modern Quilt Guild (PSSMQG) honors the legacy of African American quilting by celebrating Harriet Powers (1837-1910), a Black quilter and folk artist born enslaved in Madison County, Georgia.

Associated Events

RIDING THROUGH HISTORY

Welcome to Riding through History, two installations of life-sized horse sculptures that visually represent parts of Arlington’s early landscape and remind us of the town’s untold stories.

Project Credits

Thanks to the Massachusetts Cultural Council, for grant support that made some of these projects possible. Thanks also to the Arlington 250 Committee, and the Arlington Chamber of Commerce for their collaboration and assistance.