The Spirit of the Old West
The Spirit of the Old West Gallery weaves the story of the American West, depicting the challenges, successes, and failures of both Native Americans and American Settlers. Learn about the life of the Plains Indians and the settling of the Western Frontier, from Mountain Men and Settlers, to Outlaws and Lawmen. These inspiring stories make up the larger American Story, and the Blackhawk Museum hopes to educate and entertain while preserving these important histories for future generations.
Artifacts of Native American Life
Living among nature and following the seasons with the movement of the great herds of buffalo was daily life for many nomadic tribes. Simple dolls, toys, and games served as entertainment, but few remain due to their fragile and organic nature. Creativity and expression through decoration make every artifact unique and endlessly open for interpretation. These practices not only reflect the daily life and survival skills of the tribes but also their deep spiritual beliefs and connections to the land.
The Tools of the Frontier Settlers
In search of a better life outside of Eastern cities, and a chance to start over and settle new land led folks to sell their worldly possessions and head West. Frontier settlers invented and relied on new practices and ideas to tame the land. Barbed Wire, Railroads, the Iron Plough and evolving agricultural practices and tools allowed pioneers to become ranchers and crossroads to become towns and part of the supply-chair to allow our nation to expand West.
The West in Miniature
Featuring several thousand miniature figures and animals as wells as wagons, buildings and tipis, the topographical table at The Spirit of the Old West walks viewers through the 100 years settlement of the Western United States. Beginning with the Mandan people in the late-1790's and a time before pioneers had arrived, learn about early-pioneers settlers, the rendezvous and establishment of Forts and outposts that would form the American West. Follow the Buffalo and the Pony Express, the introduction of the telegraph and the railroads and see westward expansion right before your eyes! Everything culminates with the Battle at Little Bighorn and the establishment of the romantic vision of the old west and Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show at the turn of the century.