Legacy of Land Exhibit Preview

Join us for an exclusive preview of Legacy of Land: Treaties and the Shaping of America, a powerful educational exhibition presented in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution.

This exhibit explores how pivotal treaties transformed the American landscape, reshaped communities, and continue to influence our nation today. Through artifacts, historical documents, and personal stories, visitors will examine the lasting impact of these agreements, with a special focus on the Black Hawk Treaty of 1832, a defining moment that ultimately led to the founding of Davenport, Iowa.

The preview evening will feature representatives from the Meskwaki Nation and the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska, offering an opportunity to engage with perspectives that bring deeper context and meaning to the stories presented throughout the exhibition. Guests will hear stories and enjoy complimentary food and beverages ahead of experiencing the exhibit before it opens to the public.

More than a Smithsonian collaboration, this exhibition reflects the Putnam Museum’s commitment to presenting history accurately, thoughtfully, and respectfully. Throughout the development process, the Putnam worked closely with the tribes represented in the exhibit, as well as Native American historians, advocates, and community partners, to ensure these important stories are shared with authenticity and care.

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