Outside Tour

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Looking back at the museum, you will see a young oak tree growing in the middle of a green field. This tree was planted in honor of The Treaty Oak, the tree under which the Treaty of 1855 was signed. The treaty established the Warm Springs Reservation and its surrounding 10 million acres of ceded lands.

Stanchions are placed in cardinal points of the compass to ground the building with the land. This place is part of the land, with The Museum central to an expanding circle. The circle atop the stanchions are hoop symbols. They represent the drum used in religious services and the Circle of Life, the continuity of all things.

Returning to the museum along the path, you can appreciate the stark beauty of the cliffs and the clear blue skies. You can hear the music of the creek, the whispering of the cottonwoods and gaily singing birds. You may even spot an eagle soaring high above.