Fulton-Hayden Memorial Art Gallery, Amerind Museum
Baby boomers, are you planning a trip to Tucson? If you’re interested in Native American culture and archaeology, take the time to drive out to boulder-studded Texas Canyon for a visit to the Amerind Museum. Located in the Little Dragoon Mountains southeast of Tucson, the anthropological and archaeological museum houses the largest private collection of Native American artifacts and art in the country.
The pink, Spanish colonial style building, formerly the ranch of industrialist William S. Fulton, offers a cool respite on the hot, June day when Alan and I visit. The building feels strangely familiar to me. And it should. Designed by Merritt Starkweather, architect of the Arizona Inn, it shares many of the same design elements with the historic Tucson lodging establishment.
Inside the main gallery, a 130-year-old Apache basket, found in a cave in the nearby Peloncillo Mountains, takes center stage. Throughout the room, original artifacts trace Native American history and culture from the Inuits in Alaska through the tribal communities of North America, continuing on to Mexico and South America. A second gallery on the first floor explores William S. Fulton’s journey from amateur archaeologist to expert.
On the second floor, stop by the Ethnology Room which includes a large display of artifacts depicting the Apache culture. There’s even a bow made and signed by Geronimo. Another room displays colorful Hopi paintings. Next door, in the Fulton-Hayden Memorial Art Gallery, you’ll see the Fulton’s private art collection, including two pieces by Frederic Remington. A separate gallery space features a revolving exhibit of Native American art.
More than a museum, the Amerind Foundation conducts research dedicated to preserving and understanding Native American cultures. It also sponsors events, workshops and tours.
The picnic area on the Amerind grounds would have enticed us on a cooler day. Alan and I have put a return visit to the Amerind and the Dragoon Mountains on our travel list. Next time, we’ll explore the Cochise Stronghold while staying at one of the area’s bed and breakfasts.
Do you have tips for visiting the Dragoon Mountains and Cochise Stronghold? Have you been to the Amerind Museum? Post a comment to share your experiences. I’ll be taking notes.
Disclosure: This travel experience was provided by the Amerind Museum.
Want to experience the real thing? Get your hands dirty on this Arizona archaeological experience.
You may also like -
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
I love these small anthropology museums. Thanks for pointing this one out!
Nice post. There were many upcoming civilizations that sprung up like the Canaris, the Norte Chico, Amazon, Cara Supe, Chavin, Moche of which Inca also called the land of the four regions was the significantly urbane.To get matters adequately sorted out, the Treaty Of Tordesil has was signed in 1494. Lima founded in 1535 as the capital of Peru was the epicentre for all the findings and conquests.The Spanish colonies managed to gain independence close to 18th century. For more details refer http://www.journeyidea.com/guide-to-south-america/
~Sounds like a very decent collection of artifacts and art.
Twitter: kerrydexter
July 31, 2009 at 9:37 am
Donna,
have you been to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque? A fine place to explore another aspect of Native America.
Twitter: pen4hire
July 31, 2009 at 9:04 am
Amerind is one of those hidden jewels. It is really a shame that it is so far off the beaten track, because the collection is magnificent, and beautifully curated. But on the other hand, the location is perfect for the scholarly contemplation that goes on there behind the scenes.
Oh yes, do take some time in the Dragoons. A lovely place for a hike–but not in high summer.
I have never been to Arizona but it’s on my wish list. I love this kind of museum and if I ever make it to Tucson, will put this on the agenda.
The native American Indian culture has always fascinated me, especially the folklore about the man-wolf.
Great post. I had never heard of this museum and I'm very much into all things Native American. I must get there to check it out.
jeanine
http://www.jthetravelauthority.com
Great post. I had never heard of this museum and I'm very much into all things Native American. I must get there to check it out.
jeanine
http://www.jthetravelauthority.com
{ 2 trackbacks }