Connect With Native American History & Culture in Kansas
Museums
Mid-America All-Indian Center
Located in Wichita, this museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting Native American history and culture. It features exhibits on the tribes of the Great Plains region, including artifacts, artwork, and interactive displays.
Kansas Museum of History
Situated in Topeka, the Kansas Museum of History explores the history of Kansas, including the Native American presence in the region. It has exhibits that cover the diverse Native American tribes of Kansas and their contributions to the state’s history.
Johnson County Museum
This museum in Overland Park showcases the history of Johnson County, Kansas. It includes exhibits on the Shawnee and other Native American tribes that inhabited the area, discussing their culture, daily life, and interactions with European settlers.
Haskell Cultural Center and Museum
Located in Lawrence, this museum is affiliated with Haskell Indian Nations University, which has a long history as a Native American boarding school. The museum exhibits artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the history and experiences of Native American students at Haskell and their cultural heritage.
Landmarks
Monument Rocks
Located in Gove County, Monument Rocks, also known as the Chalk Pyramids, are a series of large chalk formations that were significant to Native American tribes in the area. They hold cultural and historical importance and are considered a landmark.
Pawnee Indian Museum State Historic Site
Situated in Republic County, this museum is built on the site of a former Pawnee village. It features exhibits on the Pawnee tribe, including artifacts, artwork, and interpretive displays about their history, culture, and daily life.
Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
Located in Stafford County, Quivira National Wildlife Refuge encompasses the area believed to be the location of the Native American city of Etzanoa. It was an important settlement of the Wichita tribe and is now a protected wildlife refuge. Archaeological excavations have revealed ancient artifacts and structures.
Kaw Mission State Historic Site
Situated in Council Grove, this historic site preserves the Kaw Mission, which was a school and mission built in the 1850s for the Kaw (or Kanza) tribe. The site includes a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Kaw people.
Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area
Located in Barton County, Cheyenne Bottoms is a wetland area of international importance for migratory birds. It holds cultural significance for the Cheyenne and other Native American tribes who historically used the area for hunting and gathering.
Reservations
There are no federal reservations in the state of Kansas. However, there are several Indian reservations and tribal lands in Kansas that are under the jurisdiction of various Native American tribes.
These reservations are not federal reservations but are governed by tribal governments and are recognized as sovereign nations within the United States.
Some of the tribes with reservations in Kansas include the Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas, the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska, and the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.
Events
American Indian Festival
Held in Lawrence, this festival celebrates Native American culture through traditional music, dance performances, art demonstrations, storytelling, and food. It aims to promote understanding and appreciation of Native American traditions.
Haskell Indian Art Market
Taking place in Lawrence, this annual event showcases the artwork and crafts of Native American artists from various tribes. The market features traditional and contemporary art forms such as paintings, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, beadwork, and textiles.
Intertribal Powwows
Powwows are significant cultural events that bring together Native American tribes for a celebration of song, dance, and community. Kansas hosts several intertribal powwows throughout the year, including the Lawrence Indian Arts Show & Powwow, the Kansas City Powwow, and the Haskell Indian Nations University Powwow.
Kansas City Indian Center Powwow
Organized by the Kansas City Indian Center in Kansas City, this powwow attracts Native American dancers, singers, and artists from various tribes across the region. It features competitive dancing, drumming, storytelling, traditional clothing, arts and crafts, and food vendors.
Native American Heritage Month Events
November is recognized as Native American Heritage Month, and during this time, various events and activities take place across Kansas to honor Native American history and culture. These events may include lectures, workshops, art exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural demonstrations.