The museum’s commitment to engaging and educational experiences ensures that visitors can explore Bedford’s fascinating past, including its Native American heritage.
The Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library houses an enlightening Native American exhibit.
Local Native Americans created this exhibit to tell the history of their ancestors who inhabited the land around the Peaks of Otter, Taylor’s Mountain, and present-day Smith Mountain Lake.
Visitors will learn of the importance of the “Three Sisters” (corn, squash, and beans) to these communities while archeological artifacts on display give insight to their culture and daily activities.
The Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library in Bedford, Virginia, hosts a captivating Native American exhibit that delves into the region’s rich history.
The Bedford Museum’s Native American Room also exhibits weaponry used in combat and hunting. One of these artifacts which you can see pictured to your left is a war lance. This decorative example of a war lance is made of Sourwood and decorated with mink, rabbit skin, horsehair, and hide with a metal blade.
The lance was designed by Native Americans to be the ideal weapon to be used in combat on horseback. They would use this lance to stab and jab enemies from close range. Another purpose for the lance was that it was ideal for hunting large games such as buffalo.
Another interesting artifact housed in the ‘Weapons & Hunting’ display is a tanned deer hide.
These children’s moccasins, crafted from animal hide, are beautifully adorned with intricate beaded designs, showcasing both cultural artistry and traditional craftsmanship. These moccasins not only serve as durable footwear but also reflect the rich heritage and creativity of indigenous peoples. Made by the Sioux Indians of South Dakota.
In Monacan culture, women played a pivotal role in governance and community decision-making, significantly influencing daily life and rituals, while traditionally exempt from decisions related to warfare. Monacan elders also played a significant role, this role involved taking care of all of the tribe’s children regardless of blood relationship.
The main tribe in Bedford County was the Monacans however the Iroquois and Cherokee also passed through the area as well. The Monacan tribe still exists in Amherst County on Bear Mountain. Their main headquarters is in Madison Heights, Virginia.
