The Osage Nation will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 3, 2024, to celebrate the grand re-opening of the Osage Nation Visitors Center. The event, to be held at 1 p.m., marks the completion of a dramatic renovation of the current building located at 602 East Main Street at the intersection of Pawhuska’s Main Street and Lynn Avenue. The expansion features a new coffee shop, which will serve Osage-owned Ekowah Coffee, indoor and outdoor seating and meeting areas, and an information desk where visitors can learn about the Osage Nation and its people and culture, Osage-owned businesses, and tourist destinations.
Visitors can also purchase one-of-a-kind collectibles in a boutique, which will feature art, jewelry, clothing, and other creations by Osage artists and Osage Nation-branded products.
“This newly renovated Visitors Center creates a welcoming space for both visitors and locals to connect with Osage Nation,” said Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear. “Our Tribal Development Office has kept construction moving forward through rain and shine in order to complete this major renovation in less than a year. I am especially proud of the perseverance of our Visitor Center staff in staying operational in their pop-up location down the street.”
According to principal architect Cory Miller, who designed the new space with his wife Cherise Lookout Miller, the existing building's history offered challenges and unique opportunities. Visitors Center Director Addie Hudgins and her team worked diligently with Osage-owned MIDL. Architects to make a place that responds to the Nation’s staff, visitors, and community needs.
“Being of the community, we were in a keen position to relate to the needs expressed during programming and incorporate Osage design elements subtly and cohesively that will complement the works of Osage artists on display,” Miller said. “You’ll find a double arrow in the Info Center ceiling cloud and diamond ribbonwork-inspired picket design in the Coffee Shop ADA ramp railing. You may also recognize the patio’s brick pilasters, picket railing, and exposed roof rafters of the old Osage homes and camp arbors. We look forward to seeing these multifunctional spaces welcome visitors and connect the community to Osage artists, programs, and businesses.”
The Visitors Center is ADA accessible and restrooms are available. The Visitors Center is open Monday – Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. and closed on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors are encouraged to visit the Osage Nation Museum on Saturdays. Admission is free. For more information, call (918) 287-0005, email @email, or visit www.osageculture.com/visitors/visitors-center. Follow on Facebook @OsageVisitorsCenter.