This building is special for what it contains….but as far as architecture goes. Its ok.

That is a terrible thing to say too, because the reason it is just ok is the view you have now. from the Canal side its a good looking structure….but traffic makes it hell to hang over there unless you are on the Canal. I am going to do a full Canal photo session for that when it warms back up.

Here is the good word on the Eiteljotrg:

Eiteljorg Museum: A Celebration of the West and Native American Cultures

Nestled in the heart of Indianapolis, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art stands as one of the city’s crown jewels, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich tapestry of the American West and Native American heritage. Founded in 1989 by Indianapolis businessman and philanthropist Harrison Eiteljorg, the museum reflects his deep appreciation for Western art and culture, as well as his commitment to celebrating the diverse histories that have shaped the region. The museum’s remarkable collection has garnered national attention for its breadth and depth, housing one of the most significant collections of Native American art and artifacts in the United States.

History of the Museum

Harrison Eiteljorg envisioned a space where art and history would come together to inspire and educate the public about the cultural richness of the American West and its Native peoples. Thanks to his passion and dedication, the museum opened its doors in downtown Indianapolis, becoming a cornerstone of the city’s cultural district. Over the years, the Eiteljorg Museum has expanded its scope and collections, adding contemporary Native American art and amplifying underrepresented voices within the larger narrative of American history.

The museum’s permanent exhibits include works from some of the most renowned Western artists, such as Frederic Remington and Charles Marion Russell, as well as breathtaking Native American pieces ranging from traditional beadwork and pottery to modern paintings and sculptures. The institution is particularly proud of its commitment to telling the stories of Native American tribes in their own words, providing a platform for indigenous voices that are too often excluded from mainstream narratives.

Indiana’s Wild West Legacy: A Brief Reminder

Now, let’s address the elephant—or perhaps the buffalo—in the room. The Eiteljorg Museum, alongside the city of Indianapolis and the state of Indiana, takes great pride in reminding visitors that Indiana was once part of the “Wild West,” a land of untamed wilderness, frontier towns, and Native American tribes who thrived here long before statehood was even a glimmer in a settler’s eye. Indeed, the museum’s exhibits beautifully illustrate the vibrant cultures that called this land home for centuries before being displaced by colonial expansion.

And yet, this “reminder” is about as close as Indiana—and, let’s be honest, much of the U.S.—will get to fully reckoning with the injustices of land theft, forced removal, and cultural erasure suffered by Native American tribes. While the museum does a commendable job of accurately and respectfully representing these histories, it can’t help but feel like a bittersweet acknowledgment—one that raises important questions about how we honor the past and what true reconciliation might look like.

But let’s not let this overshadow the museum’s achievements. If there’s one institution in Indiana that genuinely strives to illuminate these complex histories, it’s the Eiteljorg. Through its exhibits and educational programs, it works to spark dialogue, foster understanding, and highlight the resilience and creativity of Native peoples.

A Beacon of Education and Representation

The Eiteljorg Museum deserves recognition for its dedication to presenting history with authenticity and integrity. Its exhibits explore the full spectrum of life in the American West, from the struggles of Native American tribes to the romanticized visions of cowboys and pioneers. Visitors can immerse themselves in galleries that juxtapose the beauty of Native American artistry with the rugged spirit of Western expansion.

The museum also hosts a variety of annual events, such as the Indian Market and Festival, which celebrates contemporary Native art, music, and culture. These events provide a platform for Native artists to share their work and connect with a wider audience, furthering the museum’s mission to amplify indigenous voices.

The Eiteljorg’s Legacy

In a city and state where reminders of Indiana’s Native American past often feel like half-hearted gestures, the Eiteljorg Museum shines as a meaningful and impactful institution. It stands not only as a repository of art and history but also as a space for reflection and growth. While it can’t undo the wrongs of the past, it can—and does—encourage visitors to confront those wrongs and appreciate the incredible cultures that continue to shape our collective identity.

So, the next time you visit Indianapolis, take a moment to step inside the Eiteljorg Museum. Yes, you’ll get your fill of the “Wild West” nostalgia that Hoosiers love, but you’ll also walk away with a deeper understanding of the people, art, and stories that make this land truly remarkable. And hey, maybe one day, we’ll get closer to turning those historical reminders into meaningful action. Until then, at least we have the Eiteljorg to keep us honest—and inspired.

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