Poarch Creek Indians Museum

The Poarch Creek Indians Museum in Atmore, Escambia County, is a local history museum focused on the culture and legacy of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, the only federally recognized tribe in the state.

Poarch Creek Indians Museum The museum is located in the Kerretv en Cuko, or the Building of Learning. It aims to interpret historic village life of the tribe, including farming and family life of the Creek Indian ancestors of the Poarch Band. The museum features exhibits that highlight pottery, tools, baskets, and textiles and their roles in daily life and in ceremonial life. Artifacts in the collection include original copies of the Petition for Federal Recognition the tribe submitted to the U.S. Department of the Interior in 1980. Because of this petition, the tribe won federal recognition in 1984 and now acts as a sovereign nation, with its own government and bylaws. Traditional art objects made by current Poarch Creek artists are also on display and include shell work, copper tooling, clothing, and quilting. The museum is overseen by the Calvin McGhee Cultural Department, named for the long-time tribal chief and advocate who died in 1970. The department consists of a seven-member board of directors that also oversees art programs, cultural education, and other events and pow wows, and has a full-time staff.

The museum and is located on Jack Springs Road just north of Interstate 65 and south of the Poarch Creek Off-Reservation Trust Land. It and a gift shop are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. There is no admission cost.

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