Many Indian tribes have a long history in the Pennsylvania area, especially around Allentown. The Museum of Indian Culture, located at 2825 Fish Hatchery Rd, Allentown, PA 18103, seeks to examine and educate people on the rich history, heritage and lives of the indigenous people who once flourished here. Inside of the historic German styled stone buildings are ample amounts of resources dedicated to the Lenape people as well as other American Indian cultures. Here’s everything that you need to know about the Museum of Indian Culture, and it’s history in the area around Allentown.
The museum was originally founded in the 1980‘s by Dorothy Schiavone. Her and her daughter created what was then known as the Lenni Lenape Historical Society, with a mission to teach the local people of Allentown about the history of the area’s original populace. Originally, the goal was small and focused; meant to showcase mainly the culture of the Lenape people from the Pennsylvania area. Eventually with it’s success among both the Allentown locals and visitors from across the country, the scope of the museum was expanded to cover information regarding the natives from more of the western world.
The museum hosts a wide variety of artifacts, exhibits and more pertaining to America’s indigenous cultures. Real life examples of how to use some of the ancient tools of the indigenous people are demonstrated on a regular basis. Countless historical artifacts are on display, comprised of Indian tools that have been kept and preserved to this very day. The historians at the museum even teach visitors things like how to construct a teepee in the exact same way that the Native Americans would have done it.
Every August, the museum participates in a festival designed to teach and reenact many elements of Indian culture and traditions, which is called a Pow Wow. The August festivals attract thousands of participants who learn the culture through a hands-on approach, with activities like traditional dances, among other shows and displays. Corn roasting is also another popular activity at the event. These authentic exhibits are enjoyed by modern tribe leaders, who go out of their way to make a patronage to the event.
Visitors tend to have a great time when they stop by the museum. The general consensus tends to be that the museum is somewhat small, but jam packed with artifacts and information. Unfortunately, some visitors tend to find the museum hours confusing, leading to some being disappointed by it being closed when they arrive. With that being said, it’s important that you look up the schedule for the museum before you plan a visit. In general, they are closed during the annual Pow Wow, and on all major national holidays. During the Summer, the museum is open Thursday through Sunday, while they operate Friday through Sunday in the Winter. Their hours of operation are the same no matter what, with them open from 10 AM to 4 PM. You can also book group field trips by reservation. Keep in mind that there is a $5 admission fee too, so be aware of that before you plan a trip.
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