Two women reading a pop-up panel about Ute knowledge, in front of a large window.

Traveling Exhibition

Ute Knowledge

Ute Knowledge: Colorado’s Original Science Technology, Engineering, and Math exhibit tells the story of how Ute Indians have used science, technology, engineering and math to survive and thrive in the Rocky Mountains.

The Ute people are Colorado’s longest continuous residents, and they have thrived here through their deep understanding of, and a connection to, the Colorado landscape and environment. The exhibit includes maps of Ute homelands, historic and contemporary photos, and quotes from Ute elders and youth. 

The exhibit includes a video monitor with nine short films highlighting collaborative field work to study Ute shelters, ethnobotany and rock art in 2017 and 2018. In the videos, Ute elders, Ute youth, and scientists discuss the connections between Ute knowledge and STEM.

Visitors can explore hands-on activities (engineering a stick shelter, creating a beadwork pattern, testing woven materials, and matching plants with their uses) that highlight how Ute people solved problems in the past and still do today. 

About the Ute STEM Project
The Ute STEM Project explores the integration of Western science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and Ute traditional ecological knowledge. The project includes field work, programs, exhibits and films, and builds on over 20 years of collaboration between the three Ute Indian tribes, scientists and History Colorado museums. The project started in 2016, and will wrap-up in 2022, and is funded by the National Science Foundation. Click here for more information on the project website.

This exhibit takes up approximately 300 square feet and is available for loan.


History Colorado is committed to continued work with Tribal partners to ensure that we are aligned with both the law and spirit of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). Learn more by clicking here.

Tickets

Location

A collection of stand-up panels on display in a large open room. The panels contain information about the Ute way of life and STEM.
Two women reading a pop-up panel about Ute knowledge, in front of a large window.
A pop up panel and interactive exhibit on display in a public space at a community college building.