The Aurora Historical Society’s newest exhibit is now open. “Buttons, Banners, and Ballots: Political Memorabilia of the Past,” includes political buttons, signs, images, commemorative memorabilia, and more, from the 1860s to the 2000s. Items from both local and national elections are included.
The exhibit, which will run through Saturday, Nov. 23, is in the first floor gallery of the David L. Pierce Art & History Center at 20 E. Downer in downtown Aurora. The center, with its exhibits and museum shop, is open Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from noon to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
Political buttons dating back to 1896 can be found, as well as buttons from every presidential election from 1936 to 1876. Among the dozens of images are photos of president Theodore Roosevelt’s visit to Aurora in June 1903 and presidential candidate John F. Kennedy’s visit here in 1960. Several Aurora area elected officials are showcased, including the controversial mayor Paul Egan, who served from 1953 to 1961.
For information, call 630-906-0650 or visit www.aurorahistory.org.
—Aurora Historical Society