Curious minds are welcome at the Discovery Center. Take part in group tours, explore interactive displays and learn how Indigenous communities have lived and thrived. Programs for all ages shine a light on art, agriculture, stories and cultural resilience.
The Museum of the Southeast American Indian
Centering Indigenous Heritage
Explore the Museum of the Southeast American Indian to connect with the rich history
and culture of Indigenous communities. Learn about the artistry, resilience and innovation
of Southeastern Native peoples.
20+
Programs and events each year celebrate Indigenous storytelling, tradition and education
46 Years
Since 1979, the Museum has served as a vital center for sharing Indigenous culture across the region.
9|9 Native South
Art Show
Join us to celebrate the museum’s most anticipated event of the year, the annual 9|9
Native South Art Show opening reception. Support Native artists and their works from
throughout the Native South — pottery, paintings, beadwork & more. Buy art the night
of the reception. It won’t last long!
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Full Exhibition
The Native South refers to the homelands of Indigenous peoples across the southeastern United States. The Nine-Nine (9|9) Native South Exhibition celebrates the creativity and cultural expression of Native artists from this region. The exhibition offers an open platform for artists to share work in any medium — from traditional forms to contemporary interpretations.
Rather than following a single curatorial theme, 9|9 embraces diversity in subject matter and style. Each piece reflects the artist’s unique perspective and connection to the Native South. The exhibition invites visitors to consider a simple truth: Native art is art created by Native people. It does not rely on stereotypes or expected imagery; instead, it conveys authenticity through realism, abstraction, cultural identity and individual expression.
Through this exhibition, the Museum of the Southeast American Indian encourages visitors to engage deeply with each work of art and to experience the richness, complexity and vitality of Native creativity in the South.
September 9, 2026 – March 26, 2027
Book from the Nook
Gather around each month as Indigenous readers share children’s stories written by
Native authors. Held every third Tuesday, Book from the Nook celebrates culture, literacy
and connection for young learners.
Watch on YouTube
Learn Through Exploration
Explore the Discovery Center
Explore More Ways to Learn
Discover immersive experiences and stories that bring Indigenous culture to life.
Experience Life by the River
Step into the daily life of Southeastern tribes through Life by the River. This hands-on
exploration brings to life traditional living, farming and community along the Lumbee
River.
Cultural Continuum
This exhibit showcases a diverse collection of items rooted in the traditions of Indigenous
tribes in North Carolina. Each piece — crafted from natural materials like clay, pine
needles, wood, stone, and metal — reflects generations of traditional ecological knowledge.
Visit us to explore Indigenous knowledge, identity, and art firsthand.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you're booking a group tour, donating to support Indigenous education or looking
to connect, we’re here to help.
Visit in Person
Stop by anytime or schedule a tour. Admission is always free. Group tours are available
for schools, summer camps and families. Learn more about Southeastern Native culture
in our exhibits.
Give to the Museum
Your support helps fund educational programming and cultural preservation. Click the
link, select Museum of the Southeast American Indian from the drop-down menu and donate
today to help us inspire future generations.
Contact Us
For more information about educational programs or to schedule a group experience,
contact the museum at nativemuseum@uncp.edu or call 910.521.6282.
Upcoming Events
Stay informed on events at the museum that celebrate the heritage, art and culture
of Southeastern Native peoples.
Meet our Staff
Nancy Chavis
Director/Curator of Museum of the Southeast American Indian
nancy.chavis@uncp.edu910.521.6231
