847.475.0911

Info@gichigamiin-museum.org

About Us

The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, located in Evanston, Illinois, is one of a handful of museums across the country that focuses exclusively on the histories, cultures, traditions, and arts of Indigenous people from the United States and Canada. Since its founding in 1977, the museum has become a cherished resource and education center committed to promoting a greater understanding of Indigenous peoples and serving as a space to celebrate their diverse cultures, rich histories, and present-day experiences and contributions.

 

Our Purpose

Learn, celebrate, and share Native cultures

 

Our Vision

To accelerate the understanding and respect of traditional Indigenous knowledge, histories, and contemporary contributions in the Great Lakes

 

Our Mission

To increase the visibility and elevate Native voices through education, advocacy, and awareness

 

Core Values

Truth-Telling and Accountability

Re-thinking Ownership

Indigenous Representation

Collaborative Partnerships

FAQs

When was the museum founded?
1977
Who founded the museum?
The museum was founded after John and Betty Seabury Mitchell donated their personal collection of 3,000 Native American artifacts to Kendall College in Evanston, IL in 1977. The Mitchell Museum was originally affiliated with Kendall College, but became an independent non-profit institution in 2006. Since the initial donation of artifacts, the museum’s collection has grown to over 10,000 artifacts.
How many visitors come to the museum each year?
We have an annual attendance of around 6,000 visitors.
What tribes are included in the exhibits?
We exhibit artifacts from all North American tribes north of the Mexican border, which includes tribes living in the Woodlands, Plains, Southwest, Pacific Northwest, and Arctic regions.
Is this a good place to bring kids?
This is an excellent place to bring kids! We have craft activities, a hunting lodge to explore, and touch tables throughout the museum where kids can pick up and play with Native American clothing, games, furs, tools, pottery, baskets, and much more.
Do you have a list of upcoming events?
Yes. Visit our Events page and learn about upcoming exhibits, programs, crafts and stories, and more.