The Sierra Mono Museum was established in 1966 by the North Fork Mono Families, with the aim of preserving their history, culture and artifacts. It opened to the public in 1971, and was one of the first musuems to be owned by Native Americans. The Museum has permanent exhibitions, with items donated or loaned by members of the Mono Indian. It also features living history in the form of tradtional songs and story-telling The collecton features Native American baskets, cultural artifacts, historical photographs and beadwork. The Museum also houses the Tettleton Wildlife Diorama Collection which comprises over 100 taxidermy animals from Asia and North America.
Guided tours are available for small groups and schools. These are led by Tribal Elders who will guide you through the displays and exhibitions, and explain how the Mono Indian used their local environment to provide food, crafts, tools, and art. The tour includes exploring the short nature trail which has signs in English and the Mono language, where visitors can learn about the the use of indigenous plants.
The museum also offers classes in the Mono language and traditonal basketry and beadwork techniques. Events through the year include the Indian Fair Day and Pow Wow in August, which has been held for over 30 years, and a members' dinner serving traditional Native American foods.
There is an outdoor stoytime area with fire pit and picnic areas. The musuem gift shop sells a selection of books, gifts and locally made crafts. The museum is open Tuesday through Friday 10.00am — 3.30pm, and Saturday 10.0am — 2.00pm.
