Koshare Indian Museum & Kiva Trading Post

719-384-4411

The Kiva Trading Post | Tours, and Dance Performances | Mission | What is a Koshare? | Koshare Indian Dancers | Directions

Established in 1933, the Koshare Indian Museum is a unique and diverse organization, consisting of many parts. The museum is unusual in that it was built by a Boy Scout troop under the inspired leadership of our founder, James Francis "Buck" Burshears, and the original 1949 structure is a registered state historic site of the Colorado Historical Society, housing a collection of Native American art and artifacts considered to be among the finest in the world. It offers a premiere collection of Native American Indian art and artifacts. The Museum also has a Trading Post that finds shoppers returning again and again. Going strong for 73 years, this Museum hosts over 20,000 visitors a year.

The Kiva Trading Post is located within the museum and provides a huge selection of beautiful items ranging from authentic Native American jewelry, pottery, kachinas and other items to novelty items for the younger set. Included in this selection are a wide variety of books, videos, CDs and cassettes for adults and children.

TOURS, AND DANCE PERFORMANCES: If you would like guided tour, please call as reservation are requested. Unguided tours do not need reservations. Also call to learn about our extensive Koshare performance program.

MISSION.: Through the preservation and interpretation of Southwest and Plains tribal art and artifacts, the Koshare Indian Museum provides a practical educational experience to visitors of all ages and offers a Scouting program aimed at enhancing the lives of youth through an appreciation for and interpretation of the arts, cultures, and dances of the Native Americans.

WHAT IS A KOSHARE? Koshares are not a tribe, but they are an integral part of Pueblo society. During dances, these black-and-white stripped characters portray unacceptable behavior and provide entertainment while reinforcing community values.

KOSHARE INDIAN DANCERS: The Koshare Indian Dancers are the members of Boy Scout Troop 232 and Venturing Crew 2230 of the Rocky Mountain Council, Boy Scouts of America.

DIRECTIONS: Take I-25 to Pueblo, take the Highway 50 EAST exit (Exit 100A). Follow Highway 50 East for 60 miles to La Junta. Once you get to La Junta, turn right at Colorado Ave (third stoplight) to 18th street. Take a right on 18th street, the Koshare Kiva is located on the campus of Otero Junior College. 115 West 18th Street, La Junta Colorado 81050; 719-384-4411.

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