Pennsylvania, steeped in history and natural beauty, also holds a rich tapestry of Native American heritage. From the Delaware Nation (Lenni Lenape) who originally inhabited much of the land to the Susquehannock and other tribes who called this region home, the legacy of the first peoples of Pennsylvania is woven into the very fabric of the state. For those seeking to understand and appreciate this vital part of Pennsylvania’s past and present, numerous museums and historical societies offer insightful exhibits and collections. This article provides a detailed guide to some of the key locations where you can explore Native American culture in Pennsylvania, ensuring a journey of discovery and respect.
Delving into Pennsylvania’s Indigenous Past: A Guide to Cultural Sites
This guide is designed to provide you with the most pertinent information, allowing you to plan your visits effectively. We’ve included addresses, contact numbers, and brief descriptions to help you choose the sites that best suit your interests. Whether you are a seasoned historian or a curious traveler, Pennsylvania offers a wealth of opportunities to connect with Native American culture.
Key Institutions and Exhibits:
1. The Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh: This renowned museum features the exhibit "American Indians and the Natural World," a compelling exploration of the intricate relationship between Native American communities and the environment. The exhibit showcases artifacts, interactive displays, and detailed narratives that illuminate the traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) passed down through generations. Visitors can learn about sustainable practices, traditional hunting and gathering techniques, and the spiritual connection to the land that defines many Native American cultures. The Carnegie Museum of Natural History is a great place to deepen your understanding of native american culture.
- Address: 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213-4080
- Phone: (412) 662-3131
- Fax: (412) 662-8837
2. Adams County Historical Society, Gettysburg: Located in the heart of Gettysburg, this historical society offers exhibits that delve into the early interactions between Native Americans and European settlers in the Adams County region. While the focus is primarily on local history, the society often includes displays that highlight the indigenous presence and contributions to the area.
- Address: 111 W. Confederate Ave., Gettysburg, PA 17325
- Mailing Address: P.O. BOX 4325 Gettysburg, PA 17325
- Phone: (717) 334-4723
3. Bradford County Historical Society, Towanda: Situated in northeastern Pennsylvania, the Bradford County Historical Society focuses on the history of the Susquehannock people who once thrived in this area. The society’s exhibits feature archaeological finds, historical documents, and interpretive displays that shed light on the Susquehannock’s culture, social structure, and interactions with early European traders.
- Address: 21 Main St., Towanda, PA 18848
- Phone: (717) 265-2240
4. Cambria County Historical Society, Ebensburg: The Cambria County Historical Society’s collection includes artifacts related to the Native American presence in the Allegheny Mountains region. Visitors can examine tools, pottery shards, and other remnants of past settlements, gaining insight into the daily lives of the indigenous people who inhabited this area.
- Address: 615 N. Center, Ebensburg, PA 15931
- Phone: (814) 472-6674
5. Clearfield County Historical Society, Clearfield: This society maintains a collection of Native American artifacts discovered within Clearfield County. The exhibits highlight the history and culture of the tribes that inhabited the West Branch Susquehanna River valley, including the Lenape and Susquehannock.
- Address: 104 E. Pine St., Clearfield, PA 16830
- Phone: (814) 765-6125
6. Columbia County Historical Society, Orangeville: The Columbia County Historical Society showcases local history, including exhibits related to the Native American heritage of the region. These exhibits often include artifacts, maps, and historical accounts that document the indigenous presence in the area.
- Address: 410 Main St., Orangeville, PA 17859-0197
- Mailing Address: P.O. BOX 197 Orangeville, PA 17859-0197
- Phone: (717) 683-6011
7. The Cumberland County Historical Society, Carlisle: The society’s Hamilton Library and Two Mile House offer a comprehensive look at Cumberland County’s history, including the Native American presence. Exhibits may feature archaeological finds, historical documents related to treaties and land disputes, and accounts of interactions between Native Americans and early settlers.
- Address: 21 N. Pitt St., Carlisle, PA 17013
- Mailing Address: P.O. BOX 626 Carlisle, PA 17013
- Phone: (717) 249-7610
- Fax: (717) 258-9332
8. Erie Historical Museum and Planetarium, Erie: This museum features exhibits that explore the history of the Erie region, including the Native American tribes who originally inhabited the area. Artifacts, maps, and historical accounts shed light on the indigenous presence and their interactions with early European traders.
- Address: 356 W. Sixth St., Erie, PA 16507
- Phone: (814) 871-5790
9. Everhart Museum, Scranton: While the Everhart Museum boasts a diverse collection spanning art, natural history, and science, it also includes Native American artifacts from the region. These objects provide insight into the lives and culture of the indigenous people who once called northeastern Pennsylvania home.
- Address: Nay Aug Park, Scranton, PA 18510
- Phone: (717) 346-7186
- Fax: (717) 346-8370
10. The Fort Pitt Museum, Pittsburgh: Located at Point State Park, the Fort Pitt Museum focuses on the history of the French and Indian War and the subsequent development of Pittsburgh. The museum’s exhibits also explore the Native American presence in the Ohio Valley, highlighting their role in the conflict and their interactions with European powers.
* **Address:** Point State Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
* **Mailing Address:** 101 Commonwealth Place Pittsburgh, PA 15222
* **Phone:** (412) 281-9284
* **Fax:** (412) 281-141711. Greater Hazleton Historical Society, Hazleton: This society maintains a collection of artifacts and documents related to the history of the Hazleton area, including exhibits that highlight the Native American presence.
* **Address:** 55 N. Wyoming St., Hazleton, PA 18201
* **Phone:** (717) 455-857612. Hershey Museum, Hershey: The Hershey Museum’s collection includes artifacts related to the Native American heritage of the region, providing visitors with a glimpse into the lives and culture of the indigenous people who inhabited the area before European settlement.
* **Address:** 170 W. Hersheypark Dr., Hershey, PA 17033
* **Phone:** (717) 534-3439
* **Fax:** (717) 534-894013. The Historical Society of York County, York: This society features exhibits that explore the history of York County, including the Native American presence. The exhibits often include artifacts, maps, and historical accounts that document the indigenous heritage of the region.
* **Address:** 250 E. Market St., York, PA 17403
* **Phone:** (717) 848-158714. Lehigh County Museum, Allentown: The Lehigh County Museum showcases local history, including exhibits related to the Native American heritage of the region. These exhibits often include artifacts, maps, and historical accounts that document the indigenous presence in the area.
* **Address:** Hamilton at 5th St., Allentown, PA 18101
* **Mailing Address:** Lehigh Co. Hist. Soc. P.O. BOX 1548 Allentown, PA
* **Phone:** (610) 435-4664
* **Fax:** (610) 435-981215. The Lenni Lenappe Historical Society and Museum of Indian Culture, Allentown: Dedicated to preserving and interpreting the culture of the Lenni Lenape people, this museum offers a rich collection of artifacts, exhibits, and educational programs. Visitors can learn about the Lenape language, traditional crafts, social customs, and spiritual beliefs. The museum also hosts events and workshops that provide hands-on experiences with Native American culture. This is an essential stop for anyone interested in learning about the indigenous people of Pennsylvania. Visiting The Lenni Lenappe Historical Society and Museum of Indian Culture is a great way to learn about places to visit native american culture exhibits in Pennsylvania USA.
* **Address:** 2825 Fish Hatchery Rd., Allentown, PA 18103
* **Phone:** (610) 797-2121
* **Fax:** (610) 794-2801
* **Email:** lenape@comcat.com
* **Website:** [http://www.lenape.org](http://www.lenape.org)16. Lycoming County Historical Society & Museum, Williamsport: This museum explores the history of the Susquehannock people who once lived in the West Branch Susquehanna River valley. Exhibits feature artifacts, historical documents, and interpretive displays that shed light on the Susquehannock’s culture, social structure, and interactions with early European traders.
* **Address:** 858 W. 4th St., Williamsport, PA 17701-5824
* **Phone:** (717) 326-3326
* **Fax:** (717) 326-368917. Mercer County Historical Society, Mercer: The Mercer County Historical Society’s collection includes artifacts related to the Native American presence in the region. Visitors can examine tools, pottery shards, and other remnants of past settlements, gaining insight into the daily lives of the indigenous people who inhabited this area.
* **Address:** 119 S. Pitt St., Mercer. PA 16137
* **Phone:** (412) 662-349018. Millersburg/Upper Paxton Township Historical Museum, Millersburg: This museum showcases local history, including exhibits related to the Native American heritage of the region.
* **Address:** 330 Center St., Millersburg, PA 17061
* **Mailing Address:** P.O. BOX 171 Millersburg, PA 17061
* **Phone:** (717) 692-408419. Monroe County Historical Association, Stroudsburg: This association has exhibits on the history of the region including information about local native american tribes.
* **Address:** 900 Main Street Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania 18360
* **Phone:** (570) 421-7703
* **Fax:** (570) 421-9199
* **Email:** mcha@ptd.net20. Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society, Easton: This society has local exhibits including Native American culture displays.
* **Address:** 107 S. 4th St., Easton, PA 18042
* **Phone:** (610) 253-1222
* **Fax:** (610) 253-122221. The North Museum of Natural History & Science, Lancaster: This museum features exhibits that explore the natural history of Pennsylvania, including the Native American presence. Artifacts, maps, and historical accounts shed light on the indigenous heritage of the region.
* **Address:** 400 College Ave., Lancaster, PA 17604
* **Mailing Address:** P.O. BOX 3003 Lancaster, PA 17604-3003
* **Phone:** (717) 291-3941
* **Fax:** (717) 399-450422. Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia: While primarily an art museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art holds a collection of Native American art and artifacts. These objects provide a glimpse into the artistic traditions and cultural practices of indigenous communities across North America.
* **Address:** 26th St. & Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA 19130
* **Mailing Address:** P.O. BOX 7646 Philadelphia, PA 19101
* **Phone:** (215) 763-8100
* **Fax:** (215) 236-446523. Pike County Historical Society, Milford: This society maintains a collection of artifacts and documents related to the history of Pike County, including exhibits that highlight the Native American presence.
* **Address:** 608 Broad St., Milford, PA 18337
* **Mailing Address:** P.O. BOX 915 Milford, PA 18337
* **Phone:** (717) 296-8126 & 770424. Pocono Indian Museum, Bushkill: Offering a focused look at the Native American history of the Pocono Mountains region, this museum showcases artifacts, exhibits, and educational programs that explore the culture and traditions of the indigenous people who once inhabited this area.
* **Address:** Bushkill, PA (Specific address unavailable, further research recommended)25. Reading Public Museum and Art Gallery, Reading: This museum features exhibits that explore the art, science, and history of the Reading area, including the Native American presence. Artifacts, maps, and historical accounts shed light on the indigenous heritage of the region.
* **Address:** 500 Museum Rd., Reading, PA 19611-1425
* **Phone:** (610) 371-5850 & 5844
* **Fax:** (610) 371-563226. The State Museum of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg: As the official state museum, this institution offers a comprehensive overview of Pennsylvania’s history, including its Native American heritage. The museum’s exhibits feature archaeological finds, historical documents, and interpretive displays that explore the lives and culture of the indigenous people who have called Pennsylvania home for thousands of years. This is a key destination for anyone seeking a broad understanding of Pennsylvania’s Native American history.
* **Address:** 3rd and North Sts., Harrisburg, PA 17108
* **Mailing Address:** P.O. BOX 1026 Harrisburg, PA 17108
* **Phone:** (717) 787-4980
* **Fax:** (717) 783-107327. Tuscarora Academy, Academia: The Tuscarora Academy’s collection includes artifacts related to the Native American heritage of the region, providing visitors with a glimpse into the lives and culture of the indigenous people who inhabited the area before European settlement.
* **Address:** Academia, PA
* **Mailing Address:** 498 Jefferson St.,Suite B Mifflin Town, PA 17059
* **Phone:** (717) 527-4010 & 436-249628. The University Museum, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana: This museum features exhibits that explore the history and culture of the Indiana region, including the Native American presence.
* **Address:** John Sutton Hall Indiana University of Penn., Indiana, PA 15705
* **Phone:** (412) 357-7930
* **Fax:** (412) 357-233229. The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archeology & Anthropology, Philadelphia: This world-renowned museum boasts an extensive collection of artifacts from around the globe, including a significant collection of Native American objects. The museum’s exhibits explore the history, culture, and artistic traditions of indigenous communities across North America.
* **Address:** 33rd and Spruce Sts., Philadelphia, PA 19014-6324
* **Phone:** (215) 898-4000
* **Fax:** (215) 898-065730. Wayne County Historical Society, Honesdale: This society maintains a collection of artifacts and documents related to the history of Wayne County, including exhibits that highlight the Native American presence.
* **Address:** 810 Main Honesdale, PA 18431
* **Mailing Address:** P.O. BOX 446 Honesdale, PA 18431
* **Phone:** (717) 253-324031. Wyoming Historical and Geological Society, Wilkes-Barre: This society features exhibits that explore the history of the Wyoming Valley, including the Native American presence.
* **Address:** 69 S. Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
* **Mailing Address:** 49 S. Franklin St. Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
* **Phone:** (717) 823-6244
* **Fax:** (717) 723-9011A Call for Respect and Understanding
Exploring Native American culture is more than just a historical exercise; it’s an opportunity to connect with a living heritage and gain a deeper understanding of the values, traditions, and perspectives of indigenous peoples. As you visit these sites, remember to approach the exhibits with respect, sensitivity, and a willingness to learn. By engaging with these cultural resources, you can contribute to a greater appreciation of the vital role Native Americans have played and continue to play in shaping Pennsylvania’s identity. This list can give you an idea of places to visit native american culture exhibits in Pennsylvania USA.