Virtual Tour

Jefferson Peace Medal

Bronze Peace Medals like this one were minted by the Federal Government from the Presidencies of Washington in 1792 until the end of Andrew Johnson's presidency in 1869.

The medals were given as offerings of peace, friendship, and goodwill by American Ambassadors and explorers to the various tribes. 

 This medal was minted in 1801 under President Thomas Jefferson, and is probably the best known version since they were carried by the Lewis and Clark Expedition to the West Coast.  The inverse features the image of the President, and the obverse features and image of clasped hands. 

Ordre national du Mérite Medal  

The National Order of Merit was founded by French President Charles de Gaulle in 1963 to recognize individuals who provided outstanding service to the French Republic. 

This medal was awarded to Comanche Code Talkers in recognition of his service rendered to France in World War II.  This medal is of the Chevalier (Knight) rank of the order.

Painted Bison Skull

This American Bison skull was pulled from the banks of the Washita River, and is estimated to be 200-300 years old. 

Comanche artist Doc Tate Nevaquaya painted the skull in a decorative motif representing the importance and power of the bison in Comanche life, art, and history.

Untitled by George "Woogie" Watchetaker 

George "Woogie" Watchetaker (1917-1993) was a Comanche painter, musician, and dancer.  Mr. Watchetaker was a five-time national Fancy Dance competition winner, performing for Presidents and even Queen Elizabeth II of England. 

The museum possesses several of Mr. Watchetaker's paintings and displays them along with art created by Comanche artists including Larry Hood, Quanah Parker Burgess, Tim Saupitty, Doc Tate Nevaquaya, Cynthia Clay, and others. 

Comanche Cradleboard

This example of a Tsomo Waakohno (fancy cradleboard) is on loan to the museum by Harry Mithlo and Juanita Pahdopony-Mithlo. 

Comanches carried their infants in cradleboards due to their mobile lifestyle.  

 This highly decorated cradleboard is a fine example of Comanche artistry with beads.

Comanche War Bonnet

Made of leather, cloth, eagle feathers, beads, horse hair, and ermine.  War bonnets were symbols of great prestige among the Comanche and other tribes.  Ownership of these items were typically restricted to individuals with high status, often chiefs or distinguished warriors. 

This war bonnet is on loan to the museum from Roberta and Lucinda Burgess.

Comanche War Bonnet with Cape

Made of leather, cloth, eagle feathers, horse hair, metal bells, beads, and paint.  War bonnets with capes could hold even more eagle feathers, making war bonnets of this type even higher prestige items.  The feathers on this bonnet are from rare Golden Eagles, making this a very valuable and powerful object to the Comanches. 

This war bonnet is on loan to the museum from John L. Thomas and Penny Escoto.