Looking for a day trip that combines history, culture, and a touch of local charm? Imagine stepping into a world where you can explore centuries of tradition and learn about the people who have called this land home for thousands of years. Welcome to the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum in Mashpee, Massachusetts.
What to Expect at the Museum
The Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum isn’t just a building; it’s a doorway to the past and a celebration of the present. Here, you will find a range of exhibits that carefully detail the history and culture of the Wampanoag people, from the Stone Age to today.
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Historical Significance: The museum is located in one of the oldest homes in Mashpee, the Bourne-Avant house, built around 1793 by Sherjashub Bourne, the great-grandson of missionary Richard Bourne. This adds a layer of historical depth to your visit.
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Exhibits and Artifacts: Inside, you’ll discover ancient artifacts and Native American heirlooms that tell the story of Wampanoag life through the ages. See tools, baskets, hunting and fishing gear, weapons, and household items. A large display shows a typical early Wampanoag settlement. In 2020, the museum created an exhibit called “400 Years Ago,” which explores the events and cultural effects of the first five years of English settlement at Plymouth, MA.
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Guided Tours: Tribal members lead tours, providing information about Wampanoag life. You might even get a tour of a traditional winter home.
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The Land of the Wampanoag: Mashpee is known as the Land of the Wampanoag, and the museum is at the heart of it. Eighty-five percent of Wampanoag people live within 20 miles of the museum, making it a central gathering place and a point of cultural pride.
Why This Matters to You
“Okay, that sounds interesting,” you might be thinking, “but why should I care about a museum when I’m considering moving to a new area?” Here’s the thing: a town’s character is defined by its history and culture. By visiting the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum, you’re not just learning about the past; you’re gaining a deeper understanding of the community you could become a part of.
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Connect With the Community Moving to a new place is about more than just finding a house; it’s about finding a home. A visit to the museum will help you connect with the area’s story and the people who shaped it.
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The Local Heritage Mashpee’s identity is closely tied to the Wampanoag Tribe. Understanding their history will give you a greater appreciation for the area’s character and the values of its residents.
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Support Cultural Preservation By visiting the museum, you’re supporting the preservation of Wampanoag culture and history for future generations. Your admission fee helps the museum continue its important work.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to explore? Here’s what you need to know:
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Location: 414 Main St, Mashpee, MA 02649
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Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.
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Admission: Adults: $8. Groups (3 or more): $6. Seniors: $7. Children (6-18): $5. Admission: Adults: $15.00, Children: $10.00, Groups (3 +): $10.00, Seniors (65 >/=): $10.00.
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Special Events: Check the museum’s website or call ahead to find out about special events, exhibits, and programs that may be happening during your visit.
Embrace Mashpee’s Cultural Tapestry
So, as you consider making Mashpee your home, remember it’s more than just a collection of houses and streets. It’s a community with a history, a culture, and a story to tell. The Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum is a great place to start getting to know the real Mashpee.
Source: mashpeewampanoagtribe-nsn.gov
Header Image Source: Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Msm – GMB
