Americana Insights 2026 is the fourth volume in an annual series that presents the latest research and discoveries on traditional Americana, folk art, and material culture. This volume includes contributions marking the Semiquincentennial of the United States by reexamining iconic national symbols from the Declaration of Independence to the Great Seal of the United States to the “Rising Sun” armchair in Independence Hall. Contributors analyze artistic representations of George Washington and the soldiers who fought for independence, as well as the importance of material culture during other major anniversaries, including the Sesquicentennial Exposition in Philadelphia in 1926. Other topics explored in this volume include New England portraiture, Shaker fountain stones, and a newly identified painting by Charles Hofmann. As the only interdisciplinary publication devoted exclusively to traditional Americana and folk art, Americana Insights 2026 offers a unique addition to the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Contributors: Sarah Bowen, Paul D'Ambrosio, Karie Diethorn, H. Richard Dietrich III, Emily Esser, Christopher Malone, Richard Miller, Lisa Minardi, David A. Schorsch, Emily Sneff, Haley Wrye