As part of Downtown Auburn’s First Friday celebrations on October 2, the Cayuga Museum of History & Art is inviting the public to an opening reception for its newest exhibit, From Revolution to Reflection: America at War. Guests can view the new exhibit as well as the other exhibits on display, including Harriet: A Taste of Freedom and The Reel American West.
The reception will take place from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Cayuga Museum, 203 Genesee St. Auburn, NY. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served. Parking is available in the lot behind the museum, street parking is available on Washington & Genesee St.
About the Exhibit
From the fight for independence to the Vietnam War, conflict has shaped the United States in complex and lasting ways.
Some wars fostered a shared sense of purpose, while others revealed deep divisions across the country and within local communities. Through artifacts, photographs, and personal stories, this exhibition highlights the experiences of residents who served in the military, supported the war effort at home, protested, and mourned those who did not return.
These perspectives reflect evolving ideas about duty, freedom, sacrifice, and patriotism, and the Vietnam War was a turning point in how Americans felt about war. By connecting local experiences to national events, we encourage you to reflect on how war has shaped both the nation and the community, and how its meaning continues to change over time.
Revolution to Reflection: America at War is supported by the New York State Council on the Arts, Fred M & Ora H. Everett Charitable Trust, Commemorate 250 funding provided by the City of Auburn’s Historic and Cultural Sites Commission and NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center, and 2026 Cayuga Museum Exhibitor Sponsors. Veteran and guest admission provided by the Cayuga County Veteran Service Agency with funding from the NYS Joseph P. Dwyer Program
