Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian

Hastiin Klah’s vision intertwined with Mary Cabot Wheelwright’s passion. Right here at the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, their dream took shape. The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian opened its doors in 1937. It stands as a testament to their dedication to preserving Navajo culture. Wheelwright, from Boston, and Klah, a Navajo singer and medicine man, joined forces in 1921. Their goal was to safeguard Navajo traditions amidst government pressure to assimilate. The U.S. government was actively suppressing Navajo language and customs at the time. Wheelwright and Klah meticulously documented the Navajo Creation Story. They preserved other vital narratives. They worked alongside Franc Newcomb who recreated sandpaintings in a permanent form. Klah, a weaver himself, contributed magnificent tapestries. These tapestries also depicted sandpainting imagery, further enriching their preservation efforts. The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian was designed by William Penhallow Henderson. The building’s architecture evokes the traditional Navajo hooghan. The hooghan symbolizes both home and ceremonial space. Klah blessed the museum’s grounds before his passing in 1937. The museum originally bore names reflecting its focus on Navajo religion. It was known as the Navajo House of Prayer and the House of Navajo Religion. Later, it became the Museum of Navajo Ceremonial Art. In the 1970s, the resurgent Navajo Nation reclaimed its cultural authority. This prompted the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian to repatriate sacred objects in 1977. This marked a pivotal moment. The museum broadened its mission. It became the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian. Today, the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian houses a renowned collection. It showcases Navajo art and culture spanning from 1850 to the present day. It also features rotating exhibitions. These highlight both traditional and contemporary Native American art. The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian continues to inspire. It offers a window into the rich heritage of the Navajo people. It invites us to appreciate the enduring power of cultural preservation.