Regis University Library Unveils New Exhibit on Election Campaigns
"I Approve This Message:" A Visual History of American Presidential Campaigns and Elections
Regis University’s Dayton Memorial Library is thrilled to announce the grand opening of “I Approve This Message”: A Visual History of American Presidential Campaigns and Elections, a groundbreaking exhibit showcasing artifacts from the Notarianni Political Memorabilia Collection, housed in the library’s Archives and Special Collections. This collection, amassed by long-time Regis donors and collectors Aldo and Peggie Notarianni, contains more than 4,500 artifacts that chronicle the rich and varied history of U.S. presidential campaigns and elections over the past 200 years. The exhibit will be open from Sept. 16 through Nov. 8, with hours from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays; 12:30 to 8 p.m. on Sundays; and closed on Saturdays. View the library’s hours.
The exhibit showcases a diverse array of objects that illuminate the colorful, sometimes quirky, often dramatic nature of American political history. From buttons and smoking utensils to hats and household soaps, each piece tells a unique story about the electoral process and the candidates who have vied for the nation's highest office. The exhibit traces a chronological history of elections while delving into pivotal events and influences like Civil Rights Movements, labor unions and voter fraud. Also highlighted are the contributions and struggles of diverse groups including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals and people of color.
“We are excited to bring this unique collection to the public, offering a fascinating look at the rich history of American presidential campaigns and elections,” said Hannah Miller, Archives and Digital Collections Department Head and associate professor at Regis University’s Dayton Memorial Library. “This exhibit not only highlights the creativity and diversity of campaign materials but also provides a deeper understanding of the social and political forces that have shaped our nation’s history. We hope visitors will leave with a renewed appreciation for the democratic process and the evolving nature of political campaigns.”
Through this exhibit, we gain insight into the enduring nature of political drama and the lengths to which candidates will go to capture the presidency. The exhibit underscores the idea that history often repeats itself and offers a thought-provoking perspective on America's democratic system. Experience the evolution of our nation's politics and the vibrant and often humorous ways in which our democratic process has been represented over the centuries.