Peel Museum
Compton Gardens
Coler
Osage Park
The Quiver
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America’s 250th Anniversary

In 2026, the United States marks 250 years since its founding, a moment to reflect not just on history, but on the shared responsibility of caring for the places, stories, and communities that shape our future. At Peel Compton Foundation, this milestone feels personal. Our work has always been about preserving what matters, restoring what was lost, and creating access to meaningful experiences outdoors, in history, and in nature. America’s story is told not only through national landmarks, but through local places, like ours, where people gather, learn, play, and belong.

Peel Museum & Botanical Garden

Step Inside a Chapter in America’s Story

The Peel home was built in 1875, just 99 years after the Declaration of Independence. That places the Peel family squarely within America’s first century—not distant history, but formative years. While the U.S. was defining itself post-Civil War, families like the Peels were shaping local governance, agriculture, commerce, and community life.

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Compton Gardens & Arboretum

Championing America’s First National River

Neil Compton played a pivotal role in protecting the Buffalo River, which became America’s first National River in 1972.

The conservation movement is a uniquely American evolution—moving from land exploitation to land protection. Compton Gardens & Arboretum represents the idea that citizens can influence national policy through persistence, education, and love of place.

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Coler Mountain Bike Preserve

Access & Freedom

At Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, freedom takes the form of access. Open trails, restored land, and shared outdoor experiences reflect a modern American ideal—that everyone deserves the opportunity to explore, move, and connect with nature. As the nation marks 250 years, Coler represents how access to public land continues to shape health, independence, and community.

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Osage Park

Stewardship & Responsibility

Osage Park reflects the responsibility we share to care for land, water, and one another. Through wetland restoration, inclusive design, and spaces built for gathering and play, the park demonstrates how stewardship is an essential part of America’s future. At 250 years, Osage reminds us that caring for what we share is a lasting civic value.

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Events & Programs

Community Picnic

May 31, 2026

Presented by Cadillac of Bentonville

Join us for a community picnic at Peel Museum & Botanical Garden as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary together. Bring your friends, family, and neighbors for a fun-filled day in the gardens with classic picnic fare, sweet treats, and activities for all ages. It’s the perfect way to relax, connect, and celebrate our shared community and history.

Paradise Found 5k

July 11, 2026

Presented by PepsiCo

Celebrate summer, freedom, and 250 years of the American story at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve during the 5th annual Paradise Found 5K Trail Run, presented by PepsiCo. This year, participants are encouraged to dress in their most patriotic outfit!

School Days

September 9-12, 2026

School Days continues to be one of Bentonville’s most treasured educational traditions. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, this year’s program focuses on life in early America, welcoming fourth grade students and their teachers to the Peel Museum & Botanical Garden to explore the history of Northwest Arkansas and experience the 1800s through hands-on learning.

Community Day: First Responders Night

September 11, 2026

In honor of America 250, we’re proud to offer First Responders and Military a free day of archery at The Quiver as part of our Community Days monthly offering. All experience levels are welcome, with instruction and safety guidance provided by our certified staff.

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