Ute Indian Pow-wow Presentation

Museum Strengthens Indigenous Connections

The Tread of Pioneers Museum continues to expand its collaboration with Native American communities through exhibits, events, and education. Executive Director Candice Bannister and Curator Katie Adams recently convened at the Indigenous Connections Summit in Golden to connect with tribal leaders around the country and museum professionals from Colorado.

The museum has long highlighted Ute and Indigenous history and continues to expand its efforts. The museum partners with Ute tribal members to host an annual pow-wow, with this year’s free event on May 19 at Steamboat Springs High School. The museum also features Indigenous art, oral history exhibits, and educational programs.

As the Tread of Pioneers Museum seeks to expand Indigenous representation and efforts, upcoming collaborations at the museum will include We Are Still Here: The Endurance of Native Jewels in June 2026 (from the Golden History Museum) and This is Native Art in October 2025, 38 works created by 32 contemporary Native American artists, curated by Lakȟóta artist Danielle SeeWalker. The exhibit is also currently on display at the Golden History Museum after several months on display in the Governor’s office at the state capitol. SeeWalker will also travel to Steamboat as a speaker for the museum’s December 2 History Happy Hour to highlight her book, Still Here.

Through these initiatives, the museum ensures Indigenous voices, history, and culture remain central to the region’s diverse historical narrative.