Committee History

The Owen-Maclure 200 Committee was established in January 2025 as the bicentennial of Robert Owen's involvement in New Harmony, Indiana, began. Recognizing that 2025 would mark exactly 200 years since Owen purchased the town and he partnered with William Maclure to launch an ambitious social experiment, a group of passionate community members, local historians, educators, and civic leaders came together to ensure this milestone would be properly commemorated. The formation of the committee represented a shared belief that New Harmony's remarkable story deserved more than a passing acknowledgement. It called for a two-year celebration that would honor the past while bringing the Owen-Maclure experiment's relevance and drama to life for contemporary audiences.

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From its inception, the Owen-Maclure 200 Committee understood the magnitude of the task ahead. Planning a bicentennial celebration for the community meant not only organizing events and programs but also deepening public understanding of why New Harmony's Owen-Maclure experiment matters in American history. The founding members brought diverse skills and perspectives to the table: some contributed deep knowledge of local history, others offered expertise in education, public history, marketing, and design, and still others provided connections to regional and national organizations that could help amplify New Harmony's story. Working collaboratively throughout 2025, the committee has coordinated with local historic sites, museums, libraries, universities, the town board, local tourism offices, and community organizations to create a comprehensive bicentennial experience.

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As the bicentennial unfolds, the Owen-Maclure 200 Committee continues to build on the momentum of its early months, always guided by a commitment to scholarly honesty, inclusive storytelling, and meaningful public engagement. While the committee was formed specifically for this anniversary, its members hope that the connections forged, the resources developed, and the renewed interest in New Harmony's utopian heritage will create a lasting legacy that extends well beyond 2027. Just as Owen and Maclure's two-year experiment produced benefits that outlasted the community itself, the committee aspires to encourage ongoing conversations about innovation, idealism, and the power of bold ideas to improve our world.