Dixon, Ill. – The Young America’s Foundation (YAF) announced plans to open a permanent museum featuring sets, props and artifacts from the recently released “Reagan” biopic. The museum, expected to welcome visitors in 2028, will be located in Dixon, the hometown where President Ronald Reagan spent his formative years.
Local partnership highlights heritage
YAF, which already oversees Reagan’s Boyhood Home in Dixon and the historic Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara, California, will add a full‑scale replica of the Oval Office, the Situation Room, the Soviet leader’s office, and a recreation of the Hilton Hotel wall where Reagan was shot. Hundreds of film pieces will accompany the displays, creating a tangible link between the movie and the real‑life locations that shaped Reagan’s character.
Community and educational focus
Former Wisconsin Governor and YAF President Scott Walker said the museum will give students and families a chance to explore how Reagan’s Midwestern upbringing influenced his later leadership. Walker emphasized that the exhibit will pair the film sets with virtual, photographic and video material, allowing visitors to ask questions about the values that guided Reagan – from confronting communism to revitalizing the American economy.
“It’s a great reminder to kids that you don’t have to grow up with privilege or money to achieve the American Dream,” Walker said, noting that Reagan’s modest background mirrors the experiences of many families in the area.
Local enthusiasm builds on 2024 premiere
The museum announcement follows a highly attended 2024 Dixon premiere of the “Reagan” film, which drew a large crowd and featured lead actor Dennis Quaid. Quaid praised the town for its hospitality, saying Hollywood often overlooks small communities.
Walker expects the museum’s opening to generate a similarly strong turnout, describing the project as “a tremendous story” for Dixon, the surrounding county and the nation.
Film release and audience response
While critics gave the original film a low Rotten Tomatoes score, audiences rated it 98 percent, a disparity Walker attributed to “snotty elitists” among critics. He noted that Reagan faced similar criticism during his own political career, yet still secured overwhelming support across the country.
The director’s cut of the biopic, featuring ten additional minutes, is scheduled for a nationwide release on September 25.
What the museum means for Dixon
Beyond preserving a piece of cinematic history, the museum aims to reinforce Dixon’s identity as a place where American values are celebrated. By linking the film’s storytelling with the town’s historic sites, YAF hopes to attract tourists, support local businesses and provide an educational resource for schools and churches.
Local leaders and faith‑based groups have expressed support, seeing the museum as an opportunity to teach younger generations about Reagan’s faith, family values and commitment to liberty.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
