Last updated: 3/20/2015
115 Business Loop 70 W.
Columbia, MO 65211
Under construction (2015) at our new location, Mizzou North!
Monday - Friday
10 AM - 4 PM
The Museum of Anthropology is the only anthropology museum in the state of Missouri and one of a few in the Midwest. The Museum's archaeological collection, the largest holding of prehistoric Missouri artifacts in the world, includes millions of items dating from 9,000 B.C. to modern times.
The Museum curates thousands of ethnographic objects from many cultures around the world, as well as a sizable collection of historic Euroamerican materials and the extensive Grayson Archery Collection. Additionally, the Museum holds the Fay Library of anthropological books and periodicals and archival materials relating to various collections.
The Museum Online allows the Museum to reach visitors beyond its physical boundaries and to provide greater access to collections and related information for researchers, students, and other interested individuals. Online features include donor profiles and collection summaries, samples of items on display in the Museum, and virtual exhibits of materials from the Museum's extensive holdings that are not currently included in the Museum's exhibit hall.
Since its founding in 1939, the Museum of Anthropology has served the research and teaching needs of the University of Missouri, provided exhibitions and programs for the general public, and served as an archaeological curation facility for the state of Missouri.
As early as 1885 the University of Missouri began accepting gifts of ethnographic materials. In 1902 these materials were organized into the Museum of Ethnology, under the auspices of the Department of Sociology. From 1932 to 1938 the holdings were known as the Anthropology Collection; the name Museum of Anthropology was formally adopted in 1939.
The Museum Support Center houses the Museum of Anthropology's extensive collection and has a small exhibit area featuring material from the Grayson Archery Collection. Research on collections is conducted at the Museum Support Center. Collections of archaeological and ethnographic materials are available for use by faculty, students, and other qualified researchers.
The Museum supports the University's dedication to public education by providing exhibits that convey the richness of Missouri's prehistory and the diversity of Native American cultures throughout the United States. Collections not on exhibit are also available for faculty and students to draw from to supplement their classroom experiences and for special projects.
Guided tours of museum exhibits and other public programs are available to area schools, community organizations, and other interested groups. Additionally, the Museum provides a variety of opportunities for students to gain experience in museum methods and practices, including museum courses offered through the Department of Anthropology.
This popular children's program includes presentations on artifacts and cultures from the designated areas as well as fun activities such as craft projects, traditional folktales, music and games. New programs will be announced when available. Latest program is Experience Cultures of the World.
A great place to find something different—and to support the Museum!
Featuring unique gifts from around the world, including Mexico, Central and South America, India, and Africa, as well as Native American items. We accept credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover), cash and personal checks. The Museum Gift Shop is a member of Co-op America's Fair Trade Alliance, supporting good working conditions & wages for our ethnically-produced products
Gift Shop
Group Tours
Wheelchair Accessible
Parking
Restrooms
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