Developed by the National Exchange Club, the Freedom Shrine originated from the Freedom Train that toured the nation in 1947 carrying an exhibit of historic documents.  The purpose of the Freedom Shrine is twofold.  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.

Each year the Exchange Club of the Tresure Coast purchases, installs and dedicates a Freedom Shrine within a municipal building.  This year we chose Rosewood Magnet School and dedicated the Shrine in August of 2011.  We were honored to have Sgt. Donald Willems, III Army Combat Medic on hand for our dedication.  Thank you to the school for allowing us to install the Shrine and our volunteers (Roger, Mike & Robert) who took the time to install the Shrine and attend the dedication.