Being history buffs, we thoroughly enjoyed our time there learning about the treatment of the native Americans by the U.S. government. Because my husband is a slow reader we spent 1 1/2 to 2 hours there. Definitely a.place to see if you have an interest in American history.
If you want to educate yourself about wounded knee, save yourself the six dollars that this place charges and go do some research. Lots of information on the internet. We went to this so-called museum anticipating the hype we heard elsewhere. There wasn't anything particularly fascinating about the Native-American display or information displayed in one small room. The information provided is heavily covered in some good books (or even if you research and take the time at a relatively good library). This is just another sad notion to inform the common folk with very little about some American heritage that has been swept beneath the rug. I do hope that the national museum of the American-Indian in Washington D.C. isn't this disappointing.
We thought that the museum was very informative. I would definitely recommend making the stop. You can do the entire thing in an hour or so.
We saw on the website via Tripadvisor that they were open. Signs all over say that they are closed for the season. No where could we find when they open. Just thought that I would post this, so that others don't make the same mistake. It is a nice building, so I'm sure that there is great information on the inside. BUT, if you are going to stop, call ahead and see if they are really open for the season, or when the season starts. The building is right next to the Wall Drug block in downtown Wall, SD. Would be a great one stop spot to see in season.
this museum is a must see for anyone wanting to learn the real history of the west. What the U.S. Govt and it's army did to the Indian people is shameful. It's very sobering to see the treatment these people endured.
This was a heartbreaking and horrifying chapter in American history and one that people should see and take to heart.The admission is inexpensive and you should take some time to review everything. Honestly,I found much of it so sad and mystifying that I couldn't take it all in.A far better use of time than visiting Wall Drug down the street.Everyone who thinks that Indiana mascots are fun should spend some time here.
I made a long trip just to see the museum, and learned upon arrival that they decided to close 1.5 hours before announced time. No explanation, no notice on the website.
I had no idea of the history here, very interesting (sad, but interesting). This is worth a stop, beats the tourist trap of Wall Drug!
I strongly disagree with the negative reviews. This is a growing and developing museum. It was a privilege to make a small contribution to their efforts. To my limited knowledge this is only remembrance of its type of the Massacre. The actual site is in Wounded Knee, SD and is, I understand, in very sad and appalling condition. So bravo for this attempt to remind and educate. Read the trip advisor reviews and see how whites show regret and sorrow for their horrendous actions against Native people's.
As difficult as it was to absorb all of the information in this museum, it is a must see for anyone who wants to find real history. Becoming informed gives us a better understanding of the struggles of those who endured such tragedy.