Self Guided Tour

When you first enter the Bennett History Museum, you will be in the Childre Grand Lobby (Longhouse). After paying admission, please sign our guest book. The receptionist will direct you to the Estelle Bennett Hughes Theater to view our award-winning 15-minute film, The Southeastern Indians.

After you have seen the movie, exit the theater and turn left to go to the Hall of Ancients at the end of the glass corridor.  In this room, you will see dioramas depicting the Paleo, Archaic, Woodland, Mississippian and Historic periods. There are interactive exhibits describing the four cultural periods, map selections, an introduction to a "virtual artifact museum," and a primitive skills video. Children enjoy using these touch screens and may need adult guidance.  

When you have finished touring the Hall of Ancients, return to the Longhouse. Just past the Bennett Grocery Store display, the Sellars Collection of Historic Hand Tools will be on your right. After you have seen the tools, cross the Longhouse where you will find the Rogers Contemporary American Indian Art Gallery. 

When leaving this area, turn right again. On your left will be the Buffington Gallery.  Currently an exhibit of paintings by the Kiowa Five are on display. The paintings in this exhibit were a critical influence in the development of modern indigenous people's art when they were produced in a limited edition in Paris in 1929.  This complete portfolio was a gift to Reinhardt University from Clarence and Margaret Rogers in 1997.  It was intended for exhibition in the Funk Heritage Center, which was then under construction. 

The five young Kiowas, who were from the Anadarko region of Oklahoma, began their art training under the auspices of the University of Oklahoma in the 1920s and were among the first to obtain training in a university setting, using modern artists' material and receiving academic instruction. This was largely the result of the influence of Professor Oscar Brousse Jacobson. 

If you are interested in visiting the Appalachian Settlement, ask the front desk receptionist for an Appalachian Settlement Guide. Access to the structures is permitted only during a guided tour or when staffed for special events.

On your way to and from the Settlement, enjoy a nature walk on the Lou Reeta Barton Northcutt Walking Trail and Native Garden.

Please remember to visit the Bennett Museum Store before you leave. All sale proceeds benefit the Funk Heritage Center.

We hope you enjoy your visit.