Ralph Foster Museum: Smithsonian of the Ozarks

The Ralph Foster Museum, fondly called the 'Smithsonian of the Ozarks,' offers a captivating journey through the region's past and present. Founded in the 1920s, the museum's mission is to preserve and showcase the Ozarks' unique heritage.The museum's eclectic collection spans three floors, each with its own distinct theme. The first floor is home to the iconic 1921 Oldsmobile Model 46 Roadster from the television series 'The Beverly Hillbillies'. Visitors can also explore the Edwards Art Gallery, featuring works by local artists and depictions of the White River. A Children's Discovery exhibit and a Primitive Americana gallery add to the floor's diverse appeal.The second floor showcases Ralph Foster's extensive gun collection, replicas of famous Ozarkian offices, and a variety of natural history specimens. The third floor continues the natural history theme with displays of birds, butterflies, moths, rocks, and minerals. A special section dedicated to the History of the Ozarks and the College of the Ozarks provides further insight into the region's rich heritage.Beyond its exhibits, the Ralph Foster Museum offers educational programs for school-age children and houses the Brownell Research Library. The nearby Star School, a one-room schoolhouse built in 1910, offers a glimpse into early 20th-century education.