Admission to Tatanka: Story of the Bison
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Duration: 2 to 3 hrs
Description
Head to the Tatanka: Story of the Bison Museum to learn about the past through exhibits and displays for a fascinating historical attraction that the whole family will enjoy. In Lakota, Tatanka is a word meaning "big beast", and to the Northern Plains People, this word was synonymous with life. Daily life revolved around these big beasts and they relied on them for clothing, food, shelter, and tools.
It is estimated that before 1880, there were 30-60 million of these bison roaming the Great Plains and by the end of the 19th century, only about 1,000 remained. This near-extinction did not happen overnight but the majority of the slaughters took place between the 1830s and 1860s. This is not to the fault of the Northern Plains People, but to the Euro-Americans who wanted to profit from these beautiful creatures and change the lives of the natives. After hunting and killing the animal, they would sell the hide and tongue for money and would leave the rest of the carcass on the prairie. By hunting them, they were trying to change the native culture and pave the way for Westward expansion.
Today, there are more than 400,000 of these animals in North America living on ranches and National Parks. Tatanka: Story of the Bison tells the story of two cultures: the white man and the Native American. You will learn their mutual stories and how these stories have shaped America. At the museum, you'll see the following:
- A bronze sculpture featuring 14 bison pursued by 3 Native Americans riders
- Northern Plains Peoples Educational Interpretive Center
- Native American Gift Shop
- Sweetgrass Grill and Snack Bar
- Dances with Wolves movie costumes
- Lakota interpretive presentations daily
Make a vacation out of it and find other fun things to do in the area!
Frequently Asked Questions for Admission to Tatanka: Story of the Bison:
- What is included in the admission price for Tatanka: Story of the Bison?
The price includes admission into the facility, a self-guided tour, and a presentation.
- Approximately how long could a customer plan to spend at Admission to Tatanka: Story of the Bison?
Most guests spend about an hour and a half on the self-guided tour and the presentation lasts between 30 minutes and an hour.
- What amenities are available?
There is a gift shop and grill and snack bar.
- Is Admission to Tatanka: Story of the Bison handicap accessible?
Yes.
- Is photography & video recording allowed?
Of course! Don't forget your cameras.
- For what ages is Admission to Tatanka: Story of the Bison appropriate?
This is great for all ages.
- Is parking available at Admission to Tatanka: Story of the Bison?
Yes, free parking is available at the location.