Koshare Museum & Trading Post: A Celebration of Native American Culture

The Koshare Museum & Trading Post in La Junta, Colorado, offers a unique window into Native American culture and history. The museum's story began in 1933 when James F. "Buck" Burshears founded the Koshare Indian Dancers, a Boy Scout troop dedicated to performing Native American dances. Inspired by visits to ancient Kivas, the troop constructed their own Kiva in 1949 to serve as a performance space and museum. The Kiva itself is an architectural marvel, boasting the world's largest self-supporting log roof. Inside, visitors can explore a diverse collection of Native American art and artifacts, representing the cultures of the Southwest and Plains Indians. Exhibits include pottery, beadwork, quillwork, baskets, rugs, and kachinas. The museum also showcases works by noted artists from the Taos and Santa Fe Art Colonies. The Koshare Indian Dancers continue to perform in the Kiva, presenting interpretations of traditional dances. The museum's mission is to provide an educational experience and promote understanding and respect for Native American cultures. For those seeking a deeper connection with Native American heritage, the Koshare Museum offers a compelling and educational experience. It's a place where art, history, and scouting come together to celebrate the rich traditions of America's first peoples.