Hometown Treasures: Capital Region

Hometown Treasures: Capital Region is a free two-day community program from the National Museum of African American History and Culture, bringing family-history resources and preservation expertise to Potomac. Participants can learn how to care for photographs, documents, textiles, heirlooms, and other objects that preserve personal and community stories.

Both days include one-on-one Professional Reviews, where preservation specialists offer practical advice about family treasures, as well as a free Community Expo with hands-on activities. The expo explores the living history of Scotland, Maryland, and the area’s shared heritage through workshops, demonstrations, and family-friendly activities. The program takes place in Potomac rather than at the museum in Washington, D.C.

When: Friday, September 18, and Saturday, September 19, 2026

Showtimes: Friday at 12:00 p.m.; Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Tickets: Free

Venue: Bette Carol Thompson Scotland Neighborhood Recreation Center, 770 Scotland Drive, Potomac, MD 20854

Professional Reviews: Meet individually with a preservation specialist for guidance on understanding and caring for family treasures. Each participant may bring up to three items, including photographs, letters, books, quilts, uniforms, dresses, textiles, ephemera, military memorabilia, family records, and other keepsakes.

Professional Review registration: Registration opens August 18.

Community Expo: Free and open to everyone; no registration is required. A Professional Review appointment is not needed to attend.

Activities: DIY preservation workshops; art, quilting, oral-history, and preservation demonstrations; family-friendly preservation activities; and opportunities to learn about local history and shared heritage.

Ages: Activities are available for all ages.

Co-sponsors: Glenstone Museum and Juneteenth Scotland Foundation.