Iconic Huntsville business kicking off America’s 250 Celebration this weekend

Huntsville is gearing up for a patriotic kickoff this Memorial Day weekend. Harrison Brothers Hardware is set to host the official start of the America’s 250 Celebration right on the historic Madison County Courthouse Square.

A Legacy Reunited

The weekend festivities center on the return of the American Signature Quilt. Originally crafted in 1989, this unique heirloom played a pivotal role in preserving the iconic hardware store. Project organizers Lynn Jones and Dale Rhoades gathered the authentic autographs of 170 notable figures—ranging from U.S. presidents and playwrights to legendary astronauts and film stars—to stitch into the quilt’s Ohio Star pattern. These signatures proved vital in raising the necessary funds to protect a beloved piece of Huntsville history.

Events and Exhibits

Guests can dive deep into the store's preservation journey through the new exhibition, How to Save a Historic Store in 5 Easy Steps. The weekend also marks the launch of the Signature Art Show in The Gallery at Harrison Brothers, a juried collection where 28 Alabama artists share their personal interpretations of the theme, “What America Means to Me.”

Hands-On History

For those looking to engage with history directly, the store is debuting A Signature Scavenger Hunt. This interactive experience encourages visitors to hunt for specific artifacts and heirlooms throughout the building. The collection ranges from ancient tools created by Indigenous people in 6,000 BC to specialized instruments used by rocket scientists during the 1950s.

Plan Your Visit

Harrison Brothers Hardware is located at 124 Southside Square in Huntsville. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, there will be a free public reception held on Thursday, May 28 at 5:30 p.m. For more information on this story, visit the original coverage from 205focus.com.