About Washakie museum & cultural center
Washakie Museum & Cultural Center: A Journey Through the Rich History of Wyoming
Nestled in the heart of Wyoming, Washakie Museum & Cultural Center is a treasure trove of history and culture. Founded in 1976, the museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the heritage of the Big Horn Basin region. With its extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and educational programs, Washakie Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse cultures that have shaped this part of Wyoming.
Permanent Exhibitions
The museum's permanent exhibitions are a testament to its commitment to preserving local history. The galleries showcase artifacts from prehistoric times through modern-day life in Wyoming. Visitors can explore exhibits on geology, paleontology, Native American culture, ranching and agriculture, mining and industry, transportation and communication.
One highlight is "The People Before," which explores the lives of Native Americans who lived in this area for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The exhibit features an impressive collection of artifacts such as pottery shards, arrowheads, tools made from stone or bone.
Another must-see exhibit is "Homesteading," which tells the story of how settlers came westward seeking new opportunities during America's westward expansion period. This exhibit showcases everyday items used by homesteaders such as clothing items like bonnets or boots; household goods like pots or pans; farming equipment like plows or wagons.
Temporary Exhibitions
In addition to its permanent exhibitions galleries Washakie Museum also hosts temporary exhibits throughout each year that showcase different aspects related to local history or contemporary art forms. These exhibits are often curated by guest curators who bring their own unique perspectives on topics ranging from art shows featuring regional artists' work; traveling exhibitions highlighting national themes such as women's suffrage movement; historical events commemorating significant anniversaries (e.g., 150th anniversary Battle at Little Bighorn).
Education Programs
Washakie Museum & Cultural Center is committed to providing educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. The museum offers a variety of programs designed to engage and inspire learners, including guided tours, workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities.
One popular program is the "Kids' Corner," which provides interactive exhibits and activities for children. Kids can learn about local wildlife or try their hand at panning for gold in a simulated mining experience.
Another program that draws visitors from across the region is the "Wyoming Cowboy Poetry Gathering." This annual event brings together poets, musicians, and storytellers from around Wyoming to celebrate the state's rich cowboy culture through performances and workshops.
Events
Washakie Museum & Cultural Center hosts a variety of events throughout each year that celebrate local history or contemporary art forms. These events are often free or low-cost and provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with the museum's collections in new ways.
One popular event is "Artwalk," which takes place every summer in downtown Worland. During this event, Washakie Museum partners with local businesses to showcase regional artists' work in storefronts throughout town.
Another annual event that draws crowds from across Wyoming is "Heritage Day." This celebration features live music performances by regional bands; food vendors selling traditional western fare like buffalo burgers; demonstrations by artisans showcasing traditional crafts such as blacksmithing or weaving; historical reenactments depicting life during different periods of Wyoming's history (e.g., fur trapping era).
Conclusion
Washakie Museum & Cultural Center offers something for everyone interested in exploring Wyoming's rich history and diverse cultures. With its extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits on geology paleontology Native American culture ranching agriculture mining industry transportation communication homesteading contemporary art forms education programs guided tours workshops lectures hands-on activities kids corner cowboy poetry gathering heritage day art walk etc., there are endless opportunities to learn about the people and events that have shaped this region. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor from afar, Washakie Museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the history and culture of Wyoming.