Events & Exhibits

Upcoming Events

Night Out at the Museum
An Evening with Cheewa James
Author Talk and Book Signing

April 13, 2024 | 7:00pm-9:00pm

Cheewa James, author

Listen to author Cheewa James discuss her family's and tribal history of the Modoc Wars. Cheewa, a member of Modoc Tribe of Oklahoma, researched her Modoc ancestry for years and was captivated by the events of the Modoc War. The Modoc War was one of the costliest Indian wars every fought. During the six-month Modoc War, 55 warriors were against 1,000 soldiers in one of the most rugged and rocky terrains on the California and Oregon border. Cheewa explores the events of the Modoc War through firsthand accounts and oral tradition while also connecting with her family members living through the conflict. Her book, Modoc: The Tribe That Wouldn’t Die, explores her extensive research and family ties to the survivors of the Modoc Wars.

Copies of her book will be available at the museum for purchase. This is a free event and welcomes visitors of all ages. Light refreshments will be served. This program is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services Inspire! Grant for Small Museums. Doors open at 6:30pm.

Yomen--A Celebration of Spring

April 27, 2024 | 10:00am-3:00pm

Back by popular demand, Yomen: A Celebration of Spring is welcoming spring at the Maidu Museum Saturday April 27 from 10am to 3pm. Enjoy this cultural event celebrating Maidu and Native Californian tradition with traditional Maidu dancers, basket weavers, artisans and crafters, and activities for the whole family. This event is free to all visitors. Lunch will be provided to Native American Elders.

10am Opening Prayer
Morning Maidu Dancers and Traditionalist
11:30am Storyteller Kimberly Petree
12pm Guided Trail Walk
Afternoon Maidu Dancers and Traditionalist

*Schedule is subject to change

Current Exhibitions

Art as Education, Education as Art

Collected works of Artist and Educator Stan Padilla
with the United Auburn Indian Community

October 15, 2023 through June 8, 2024

The United Auburn Indian Community Tribal Historic Preservation Department is proud to present Art as Education, Education as an Art – Collected Works of Artist and Educator Stan Padilla (October 15, 2023 – June 8, 2024). Stan Padilla (Yaqui) is a prominent local painter, author, and muralist who has served as an art educator and youth mentor for the UAIC Tribal School for the past fifteen years. A member of the highly esteemed Royal Chicano Airforce artist collective, Padilla’s work delves into themes of spirituality and folklore while celebrating traditional knowledge, Indigenous communities, and social justice. Presented over three unique galleries, visitors can explore Padilla’s collaborative projects with UAIC Tribal students in a recreated Tribal classroom, reflect on his philosophies of mentorship, and experience his dynamic vision for a future rooted in ancestral knowledge.

Free opening celebration and reception on Sunday, October 15th, from 1pm-4pm at the Maidu Museum & Historic Site.

The opening reception is made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services Inspire! Grant for Small Museums.