EXPLORE THE SPACE
In one place, groups can experience the living cultures and collective histories of the 39 distinct tribal nations living in Oklahoma today. The 175,000-square-foot campus showcases breathtaking architecture, state-of-the-art exhibitions of First American cultures, an outdoor interpretive walk, and much more. Few places offer the opportunity to learn about this many tribal nations in such great depth at a single location.
Self-guided and docent-guided tour options are available. In addition to long-term exhibitions, the FAM Community Gallery on the museum’s first floor hosts approximately three shows each year. Led by an all-Native curatorial team in continuous consultation with the 39 tribes, First Americans Museum uplifts their histories and cultures from the perspectives of the 39 tribal nations themselves.
DISCOVER THE HERITAGE
Located in the Tribal Nations Gallery of the South Wing, “OKLA HOMMA” shares the stories of all 39 tribes in Oklahoma today. This signature exhibition speaks to their diverse stories, featuring works of art, interactive media, and film. “OKLA HOMMA” is sure to engage visitors of all ages through sight, sound, and touch. In addition to exploring stories from ancestral origins to the present day, this 18,000-square-foot gallery examines enduring subjects including collective histories, (mis)representation, sports and games, and warriors.
Located in the Mezzanine Gallery of the South Wing, “WINIKO: Life of an Object, Selections from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian” returns objects from the 39 tribes to Oklahoma for the first time in 100 years. This exhibition examines the things these tribes create—how they reflect cultural values, possess significance, and carry on tradition into future generations. “Winiko” is the Caddo word for everything on earth, in the universe, and beyond. This term reflects the Native belief that cultural materials hold the essence of their makers and those who wore or used them.
On nice days, you can enjoy a walk along the FAM Mound. The 21st Century Mound Builders path is 2/3 of a mile round trip, sprinkled with immersive murals and interpretive signage, and culminates with a breathtaking view of Oklahoma City’s downtown skyline. The FAM Mound rises to a height of 90 feet and serves as a cosmological clock, tracking the movement of the sun throughout the year. The FAM Mound honors Mound Builder cultures that thrived across North America from about 3500 B.C. to 1751 C.E. Many of the tribal nations in Oklahoma today are descended from these cultures. For some communities, mounds remain prominent in ceremonial life.
SAVOR & SHOP
After you’ve built up your appetite in the galleries and on the FAM Mound, make sure to stop by 39 Restaurant for a bite to eat. 39 Restaurant honors Indigenous foodways by exploring the culinary innovation and artistry of the 39 tribes in Oklahoma today. Through proteins, produce, herbs, and other ingredients Indigenous to the Americas, you can experience the diverse flavors and rich nutrients of First American cuisine. Blending ancestral ingredients with contemporary aesthetics, 39 Restaurant brings cultural celebration to every plate. With consultation by James Beard-nominated chef and “Indigenous food warrior” Crystal Wahpepah (Kickapoo), 39 Restaurant showcases the culinary contributions of First Americans through an approachable but impactful dining experience.
End your day with a stop at FAMstore and the all-new FAMily Discovery Center. FAMstore offers a world-class shopping experience with handcrafted Native jewelry, apparel, books, exclusive products and other goods created by premier First American artisans. FAMily Discovery Center is a 5,000-square-foot, two-story space designed for learners of all ages to immerse themselves in a pop-up book world filled with the flora and fauna of Oklahoma, and showcasing shared Indigenous values like community and reciprocity.
First Americans Museum – Oklahoma
405-594-2100
famok.org
Lead Image:
Okla Homma Gallery
Photo courtesy of First Americans Museum
