| The Ute Museum sits in the heart of traditional Ute territory on lands once homesteaded by Chief Ouray. Migrating from the mountains in the summer to river valleys in the winter, the Utes used the abundant plants and animals of the Uncompahgre River valley for food, clothing, and shelter.The museum lies on the original 8.65-acre homestead owned by Chief Ouray and his wife, Chipeta. Built in 1956 and expanded in 1998, the museum offers one of the most complete collections of the Ute people. The grounds include the Chief Ouray Memorial park, Chipeta's Crypt, and a native plants garden. Recently renovated and expanded, the museum now includes the Montrose Visitor Information Center, gallery space, classrooms, and a museum store.The museum complex includes shady picnic areas, walking paths, and a memorial to the Spanish conquistadors who traveled through the area in 1776. Behind the museum is a link to a walking trail that is a part of a larger city-wide walking trail system.The Montrose Visitor Information Center at the Museum is a source for brochures and information on area attractions. Between 18,000 and 20,000 people come through the visitor center and museum each year. |
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