Seminole Nation Exhibit

From their ancient origins across the Southeast, through the development of their cultural identity in the Florida Everglades to their determined search for a new homeland in the Indian Territory, the fascinating and inspiring story of the Seminoles is told in the museum’s 2,400 square-foot Seminole Exhibition.

Some of these stories include the legend of the Seminole Lighthorsemen, the most feared lawmen in the Indian Territory.  The narrative of their tenaciousness and the harshness of Seminole justice is revealed here through tales of the storied Seminole Whipping Tree, where dozens of lashes were plied to those daring enough to deny the laws of the Seminole Nation.

The life of Alice Brown Davis, the first woman to serve as Chief of any of the Five Civilized Tribes is recognized in the exhibit. Raised as part of the Brown family political dynasty, Alice was appointed to chiefdom to serve the needs of the U.S. government, but instead defiantly devoted her position to a lifetime of care and welfare to her people. 

Select artifacts, rare images and vibrant artworks relate the unique story of the Seminole people and their quest to retain cultural identity and traditions while adapting to an ever-evolving, modern world.