Meskwaki Cultural Center & Museum
Our Mission
The Meskwaki Cultural Center & Museum was opened in 2010 in part of the Iowa Great Places designation received by Tama County. Our mission is to give visitors a glimpse into our Tribe’s rich, cultural legacy. Through the museum, we seek to share traditions, promote equality, and encourage cultural awareness. We are extremely proud of our heritage and invite you to visit us.
About Our Museum
Our museum displays many artifacts that have been passed down, as well as other reacquired and repatriated items that have come home over the years. Our displays include arrowheads, bowls, spoons, other pottery, arrowheads, tools, clothing, jewelry, photographs, and other objects.
Visitors are educated and receive insight in the tradition and culture of the Meskwaki (sometimes spelled Mesquakie). By sharing our culture, we hope others walk away with open minds and open hearts and are able to respect and learn from different cultures such as ours.
Upcoming Workshops & Special Speakers
Our museum and cultural center holds free educational programs, workshops, tours, and presentations throughout the year. Through these events, we seek to provide Tribal members, their descendants, and the community with learning opportunities that protect, honor, and preserve the Meskwaki culture, traditions, and history.
Weaving Cattail Mats
Meskwaki Natural ResoucesEvery Wednesday evening a group of ladies from the community meet at the MNR Building to work and learn about weaving cattail mats. They welcome any female community member to […]
Sewing Sessions
Meskwaki Cultural Center and MuseumWeekly sewing sessions at the Meskwaki Cultural Center and Museum will resume starting April 7, 2022 beginning at 6:00PM until 8:00PM. We would like to see how this date and […]
Weaving Cattail Mats
Meskwaki Natural ResoucesEvery Wednesday evening a group of ladies from the community meet at the MNR Building to work and learn about weaving cattail mats. They welcome any female community member to […]
Read About the Meskwaki Nation History
Cultural Center & Museum Staff
Members of the Historic Preservation Department run the museum and the curation of artifacts. You can find more information about the staff on the Historic Preservation page.
Museum Contact Information & Hours
Visiting Hours
Monday–Friday
8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Other times by appointment
Phone Number
Physical Address
303 Meskwaki Road
Tama, IA 52339
Mailing Address
349 Meskwaki Road
Tama, IA 52339
Stay Up-to-Date With the Tribal Museum
Contact the Meskwaki Nation
Get in touch with our main office if you have general questions or need assistance finding the correct department to contact.