A young girl in traditional Tribal wear with prairie grass and a faded image of an adult in traditional wear behind her.

Claire M. Hubbard First Peoples of the Plains Exhibit

Discover the enduring traditions of the First Peoples of the Plains in this exhibit gallery that celebrates Native American cultures.

The First Peoples of the Great Plains lived upon and moved across the “land beneath the sky.” They transformed the natural products of this diverse region into tools, food, clothing, and shelter. Their cultural traditions - language, marriage, artistic expression, and religion - were shaped by the land and each other. Although their way of life was threatened by forced relocation to reservations and Indian schools by past US Government actions, they have persevered as sovereign nations, enriching our Nebraskan communities with their presence and cultures.

We acknowledge the generosity of Great Plains Tribes members who consulted on the items on display and shared their knowledge.

The exhibit and gallery renovation were funded through generous support from the Dr. Anne M. Hubbard, the Claire M. Hubbard Foundation, and University of Nebraska–Lincoln Class of 1987 Fund. Photograph by Don Doll, S.J.