As the United States approaches the monumental 250th anniversary of its founding, Synergic Center is proud to be a part of the national conversation. Our mission aligns with the spirit of the America 250 celebration—to foster meaningful collaboration and innovative solutions that drive positive change. We are dedicated to supporting initiatives that honor our shared history, inspire future generations, and strengthen the civic fabric of the nation as we look forward to 2026.
The reimagined Freedom Hall, displaying an Exchange Club Freedom Shrine honoring the late Pettus Randall, III, celebrates America’s most important documents and freedoms. With interactive QR codes and digital archives, visitors can explore key historical texts in a modern, engaging way. This unique exhibit ensures that the appreciation of our nation’s founding principles continues to inspire future generations.
“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.”- Ronald Reagan
Created in 1949, the Exchange Club’s Freedom Shrine displays replicas of key American historical documents. It is now featured in schools and public buildings to promote patriotism and civic understanding.
From America's beginnings to the digital age
Events at a Glance:
As part of the America 250 celebration, the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) partnered to present Voices of the Past, a unique living history experience that brought local stories to life. Hosted at Synergic Center, the event invited participants to walk through history as costumed interpreters portrayed real individuals from different eras, sharing powerful, personal narratives that shaped Tuscaloosa and the nation. Through storytelling and immersive engagement, attendees experienced a deeper connection to the people and events that define America’s past.
The Tuscaloosa County America 250 Committee continues to meet and collaborate on unique ways to tell our nations history. In addition, the University of Alabama showcased its Welcome Center America 250 Quilt exhibit, which further supports the initiative by connecting visitors to the broader themes of service, leadership, and civic responsibility. Together, these efforts reflect the university’s commitment to honoring the nation’s history while encouraging thoughtful dialogue about its future.
A key symbol of the America 250 initiative is the Liberty Tree, planted in the front of Synergic Center. Inspired by the original tree in Boston that served as a gathering place for early patriots, modern Liberty Tree projects across the country serve as living memorials to the sacrifices made during the American Revolution. These efforts not only commemorate the past but also create lasting spaces for reflection, education, and community connection as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
Monday December, 2 5:00-8:30 PM- (Night of Dickens Downtown in Northport)
On December 2, from 5:00-8:30 PM, join us for a magical evening remembering colonial America, as we begin to celebrate our country’s 250th birthday.
Enjoy warm cups of hot chocolate and cookies while exploring Freedom and Heritage Halls, beautifully adorned with colonial decorations. Plus, take advantage of free parking and a shuttle to Dickens Downtown in Northport for a truly festive night.
Shuttle pick-ups will be available at Synergic and the Kentuck parking lot. Service will run from 5:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.
Thank you to our community partners who helped make this event possible: Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution, Exchange Club of Tuscaloosa, Tuscaloosa County 250th Committee, Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and Posse, Focus 50+, Probate Judge Rob Robertson, the City of Northport, The Merchants of Historic Downtown Northport, Harrison Construction and Tuscaloosa County Commission. Also, made possible by the efforts of our Synergic staff and interns. Live music will be provided by Anna Robertson.