Tracy’s history soon will be on display at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts as the Exhibitions Program opens the 2010-11 season with a historical exhibition of Tracy’s development, focusing on the first half of the 20th century.

The history-themed exhibit will feature photographs, objects and memorabilia relating to the forming of Tracy’s municipal government and the community at large. The exhibit is scheduled to open Sept. 11 as part of the Grand’s anniversary weekend and run through Oct. 30.

To develop the exhibition, the Cultural Arts Division has asked community members to join in. Both past and present Tracy residents may submit items for consideration to be included in the display.

“I’m excited to collaborate with the community to find personal or institutional items from the city’s past, and hopeful that with the help of local historians and the families of Tracy, we’ll share an amazing collection of items with the public” said William Wilson, gallery supervisor. “Together, we’ll discover what stories we can tell and celebrate in presenting this exhibition.”

Buildings and sites of importance include the original Town Hall and Jail at 1900 Seventh Street, the Grand Theatre and surrounding buildings, the downtown City Hall and fire station and the Hall of Justice police station at 1940 Eighth Street.

Also wanted are images or artifacts highlighting major industries, labor and trade, along with things that show how the community gathered, relaxed and celebrated through the years.

Community members and groups interested in participating in the history exhibit can reach Wilson at 202-831-6278 or william.wilson@ci.tracy.ca.us between Aug. 17 and 20. Participants should be prepared to describe the items they want to lend to the display and discuss their origins.