Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park

Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park is a treasure trove of Native American culture. Located in the California desert in Lancaster, this museum offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the native people who lived there for centuries. From its collections of artifacts to its traditional Pahavit Language programs, the museum offers a fascinating and educational experience for all who visit.

The museum was established in 1967 by San Fernando Valley resident William T. Dabney. Dabney was an avid collector of Native American artifacts and conducted extensive research on the area's history. With the help of his family, he built the museum from the ground up and opened it to the public.

Once inside, visitors can explore the various exhibits that display items from various Native American tribes. These include items such as baskets, pottery, tools, weapons, and clothing. The museum also houses a variety of artifacts from California missions and historic buildings. As well as historic artifacts, visitors can view modern artwork created by contemporary Native Americans which depict social and cultural issues within their communities.

The museum plays an important role in preserving and conserving the rich culture of Native Americans in Antelope Valley. It offers a variety of educational programs like Pahavit Language classes which promote an understanding of the language used by local tribes as well as other programs focusing on local history, crafts, and traditional songs and stories.

The museum also plays host to several events throughout the year. The annual Flute Festival is held in April and features traditional flute players from across California who play music from various native tribes. In August, traditional dancers come together to celebrate Native American culture at the Annual Pow Wow event. Other events include hikes around the local area to explore native sites, movie nights, and craft classes for children.

Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Native Americans in Antelope Valley and California. With its wide range of artifacts and educational programs, it is sure to provide visitors with a unique learning experience that will stay with them long after they leave. Visit today to experience all that this incredible museum has to offer!