Our Facility | Hands-On Activities | Museum Shop | Reference Library | Downstairs Dunham Gallery | Driving Directions

Our Facility The Schingoethe Center's main gallery of over 1,500 square feet and a smaller attached gallery for temporary exhibits explore both historical and contemporary Native American materials from North America. The time line of Native American life in the North American continent stretches deep into prehistory. Our exhibits, however, reflect not only the past, but the present. Both early history and contemporary artistry are presented with artifacts from the major cultural regions of Native Americans in North America. The exhibitions present a harmony in living and artistic expression.

Hands-On Activities Included in the cost of admission, museum visitors can participate in several Hands-On activities for experiential learning. These activities are great for adults and kids to do together: Floor Puzzle - Put together our large ( 6' x 6' ) floor puzzle of the culture areas of North America. When you have finished the puzzle add pictures of the dwellings in the proper culture area. Weaving - Our weaving tables are ready. Three looms and two finger-weaving stations are available. Try your hand at weaving. Mano & Metate - What would it be like to spend hours a day grinding corn for lunch and dinner? Try your hand at grinding corn the way Native American women did for centuries. Arts & Crafts - Selected arts and crafts activities pertaining to the exhibits are available in our library. Construct a Wigwam

Museum Shop The Museum Shop is located in the Entrance Gallery of the Center, on the lower level of Dunham Hall. The Museum Shop is filled with a variety of objects made by Native Americans from all over the country. It is a favorite shopping destination for those looking for a unique gift. Whether you desire pottery, jewelry, dolls, or drums, the Schingoethe Museum Shop has quality hand made items.  You will find a wonderful selection of books for children and adults as well. Come and see our special collection of things Native American! Choose the perfect gift from our wonderful selection including: Dream catchers Baskets Pottery Textiles Cookbooks Books for children and adults Native-made jewelry Gifts for Men Stuffed animals Educational materials including puzzles, maps and make your own kits -- popular with both teachers and parents

Reference Library The Schingoethe Center has a growing research library which currently contains over 2000 volumes, audio/video materials, rare books, and periodicals related to Native American cultures. The library materials are catalogued and this information is also listed in Aurora University's library card catalog and thereby through Illinet-Online. The research library is open to the public during regular museum hours.  All materials in the library are non-circulating; however, a photocopier is available.