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.

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

(641) 484-3185

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.