Freedom Shrines are displays of the most important documents related to the United States of America.  Our club has sponsored freedom shrines that are on display at the following places:

• The Port Angeles High School
  
• Stevens Middle School
  
• Roosevelt Middle School
  
• City Council Chambers
  
• Old City Court House (Museum)
  
  
  

Freedom Shrines

The Freedom Shrine originated from the Freedom Train that toured the nation in 1947 carrying an exhibit of historic documents. The underlying purpose of the Freedom Shrine is two fold. It puts before young Americans proof that the freedom and greatness we enjoy today were not purchased easily and reminds them that these gifts must be cherished and protected.

Painstakingly researched to guarantee absolute authenticity, the 28 historical American documents that comprise the Shrine were carefully chosen to exemplify the beginnings of our nation and those subsequent turning points of importance, which shaped our national character and eminence. The documents of the Shrine, although culled from the past, represent foundation stones which permit the present, as we know it, to exist and the future, as we dream it, to be attainable.

Thousands of Shrines have been dedicated throughout the United States and Puerto Rico in universities, libraries, schools, state capitals, city halls and at American outposts scattered throughout the world.

The Shrine is a display of historical documents photographically reproduced from the originals. It is a functional tool used by teachers, students, study groups and other clubs to further study American history. Exchange prints a study tool called the Freedom Shrine Documents Text book, which contains the texts of the documents of the Shrine. It can be used to inspire essay and speech contests, and to prepare for the Milestones of Freedom quiz.

Although the Shrine is an exclusive project of Exchange Clubs, they could not have accomplished the task alone. Hundreds of businesses, industries and private individuals have provided financial assistance. Such Americans have helped to buttress the foundation stones of America by planting the seeds of our heritage in young minds to ensure a rich harvest of citizenship in the future.

The Shrine is a beneficial community relations project. It provides a company with an opportunity to present a community with a gift of unquestioned value and prestige. A cosponsor shares the spotlight of public attention, which is illuminated during the ceremonial dedication of the Shrine.