California State Indian Museum

The California State Indian Museum is a museum in downtown Sacramento dedicated to traditional objects from California's indigenous peoples. Its collections include dance regalia, musical instruments, and extensive basketry that served both practical and ritual purposes.

The museum was founded in 1940 to preserve traditional objects from various California indigenous tribes and make them accessible to the public. It became an important repository for documenting the material culture of these communities.

The museum displays indigenous craftsmanship through traditional items like feather headdresses, dance capes, and ceremonial instruments from California tribes. Visitors can observe how these objects were used in both everyday and ceremonial contexts.

The museum sits next to the historic Sutter's Fort and is easily reached on foot. Visitors should allow about two to three hours for a thorough visit and wear comfortable shoes to explore the galleries at a relaxed pace.

The museum holds photographs donated by indigenous families that capture personal moments from earlier generations. These images connect the past directly with today's visitors and offer an intimate window into community life.