Jackpot! Seminole Gaming From Then Until Now                       2007

What is tribal sovereignty? This is the right of Indian tribes to self-government and self-determination. These rights are not modern constructions, but have existed for tribes long before the framing of the United States Constitution. For the past 276 years, tribes have fought both on the battlefield and in the courtroom to protect their rights as independent nations. Since the 1970’s the Seminole Tribe of Florida has used the United States judicial system to open doors for increased Tribal economic self sufficiency. Controversy over tribal gaming has never abated, but the legal triumphs of the Seminole Tribe and their acquisition of the Hard Rock brand have opened the doors for other tribes around the country to institute gaming and reap its economic and social benefits.

Cattle Keepers: The Heritage of Seminole Cattle Ranching

January 2009- September 19th 2010

Round Gallery, Big Cypress

Why are there so many cows on the Seminole reservations? The great number of cattle seen roaming the pastures are part of a long and unique history of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Riding, roping and herding cattle are traditions that reach back to the beginnings of the Seminole people in Florida. Please join us as we examine historically, the Spanish arrival and introduction of cattle in Florida, the influence of the Seminole leader Cowkeeper and the impact of the Seminole Wars on cattle keeping. The exhibit also focuses on recent developments in the Seminole cattle industry such as the formation of the Seminole cattle enterprise, Seminole rodeo heroes and Seminole cattlewomen. Little buckaroos have the opportunity to play dress up as a cowboy or cowgirl and have their picture taken with a life size Florida cracker horse! Due to popular demand this exhibit has been extended until September 2010!

Postcards and Perceptions: Culture as Tourism

February 12th 2010- January 9th 2011

West Gallery, Big Cypress

Postcards provide a glimpse at what is noteworthy about a place. Although there are no rules for postcard content, they often depict popular tourist locations. Widespread use of the picture postcard occurred around 1890. During this time, tourists were flocking to South Florida. This new and forbidding landscape must have seemed foreign to some. For others, a chance to come in contact with the “unconquered” Seminole Indians was most significant. Throughout the era of tourist villages the postcard was a common souvenir. It depicted the Seminole Tribe of Florida in all ranges of flattering and sometimes not so-flattering terms. Be that as it may, this selection of postcards is an invaluable record of history and a testament to a resilient and resourceful group of people. Join us as we examine the complex social identity of the Seminole Tribe of Florida through postcards.