America 250 at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site

The Thomas Cole National Historic Site will present its 2026 initiative, “Thomas Cole: Painting the Nature of America,” in honor of America 250. In the early 19th century, Thomas Cole (1801–1848) reimagined the American landscape as a powerful symbol of national identity—capturing vast forests, soaring mountains, and luminous skies that shaped the ideal of “America the Beautiful.” His work sparked the Hudson River School, now internationally recognized, and fostered both pride and a lasting commitment to preserving the nation’s natural scenery. As we commemorate the country’s 250th anniversary, Cole’s vision of America’s beauty continues to resonate and inspire.

Thomas Cole: An American Visionary
April 25–Dec, 2026
A dynamic installation of Thomas Cole’s landscape paintings, painting objects, and easels. Includes an exploration of the artistic exchange between Cole and his student Frederic Church, in honor of Church 200. In the new Richard Sharp Gallery in the Main House.

Circles of Influence: Thomas Cole and the American Landscape Movement
June 20–Dec, 2026
A selection of works highlighting Cole’s influence, including Frederic Church, Asher B. Durand, Jasper Francis Cropsey, Albert Bierstadt, Susie Barstow, Mary Josephine Walters, and more. In the historic Library Gallery designed by Thomas Cole in the Main House.

Contemporary Vistas

Cynthia Daignault: Light Atlas
June 20–Nov 1, 2026
Featuring an immersive work by Daignault inspired by Thomas Cole of 360 landscape paintings created on a road trip across the country. In the reconstructed 1846 New Studio Building.