State Indian Museum (SHP) #309

State Indian Museum (SHP) #309

A special section of the museum celebrates the importance of the Indians of the Central Valley. Stretching for several hundred miles, from Bakersfield in the south to Redding in the north. This includes the Wintu, Maidu, Miwok, Yana, Koncow, Nomlaki, Patwin, Nisenan, Yokuts Monache, and Tabtulabal California Indian Nations.

Declaration of Purpose

12/1975 – Interpretive Prospectus – Division Approved

The purpose of the State Indian Museum State Historic Park is to make possible for the enlightenment of the public the interpretation of the California Indian way of life from prehistoric times to the present day; and to make possible the preservation of the evidence of our California Indian heritage.

The function of the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) at the State Indian Museum is to maintain and interpret these heritage resources and to manage them in such a way to perpetuate these values for the enjoyment and inspiration of the public, in accordance with the declared purpose of the museum.

The Collection

Unless specifically created for interpretive purposes in this version of the State Indian Museum, all objects on display are from the State Indian Museum permanent collection. The catalog numbers reflect a wide sampling from the Hathaway, De Young, Hall-Sheedy, and Stilson collections among others. The California State Indian Museum exhibits over 700 objects made by California Indians. Illustrating the theme “ A Continuing Culture” the objects are mounted in displays interpreting religious activities, objects needed for daily living, examples of excellence in basketry, and a special exhibit featuring objects associated with Ishi. The exhibit represents all of the Indian peoples of California; however, more emphasis is evident of northwest and central California cultures because of the nature of the collection resources.

Facility

State monies were provided in the 1940’s to construct an adobe building at the northwest corner of the Sutter’s Fort property. This building of about 4,500 square feet was originally built to exhibit the Benjamin W. Hathaway collection of Indian artifacts, which is the foundation the state collection, is built upon.

Staff

There are two full-time positions, consisting of a curator and a park ranger. There is one seasonal park aid. A cashier position paid for by the Sacramento Historic Sites Association.

Volunteers

The State Indian Museum’s 20 active volunteers work in on and off-site interpretation, event preparation, administration, research, information desk/sales and native garden maintenance.

Events / Programs

The events scheduled for the year 2002 includes the following:

• HONORED ELDERS – May: Each year California Elders are recognized for their lifelong contributions to continuing Indian culture. Legislative proclamations and traditional dances are held in the Elders’ honor during this day. Crafts booths may be on the grounds.

• SUMMER FUN PROGRAM – June: A new program at the museum, this is a week long series of traditional crafts, stories and games for children, ages 7 – 12.

• ACORN DAY – October: A day of learning and fun. You can shell, grind, sift, cook and taste your efforts as you make acorn soup from start to finish.

• ARTS AND CRAFTS HOLIDAY FAIR – November: Highly skilled and respected Indian artisans demonstrate as well as sell their artistic crafts during this event. One can see arts and crafts such as basket weaving, pottery, silver work, carvings, hand-painted gourds and beadwork. The fair is held during the two days following Thanksgiving.