John Wesley Powell River History Museum

The John Wesley Powell River History Museum celebrates the unique history of river systems that have shaped the landscape of the Colorado Plateau.  The exhibits explore the cultures and environments influenced by this area.  Our educational programs encourage both children and adults to step outside and connect with, as well as learn about, our remarkable surroundings.  Events create opportunities for the rural communities of Southeastern Utah, our River Runner friends, and travelers passing through to engage with history, arts, and culture.  Our goal is to become a museum recognized internationally, serving those who, like us, cherish the natural wonder that is the Colorado Plateau.

Since opening in 1990, the museum has been dedicated to preserving the history of the rivers on the Colorado Plateau for the local residents of the Green River rural community, the River Runner communities, and visitors journeying through Southeastern Utah.  In recent years, the organization has aimed to forge a new identity, exploring ways to provide impactful programming, partnerships, and exhibits that delve into history, the environment, and share the stories of the people and landscapes that have flourished here and called it home.

John Wesley Powell, the namesake of our museum, consistently inspires us with his legacy of bold exploration and dedication to discovery.  When he and a group of brave men embarked on their journey down the Green and Colorado Rivers in 1869, they were less informed about what they might encounter than the NASA astronauts who first set foot on the moon in 1969!  Renowned for his explorations, JW Powell's enduring influence is evident in science as the founder of the Bureau of American Ethnology, Director of the US Geological Survey, and a proponent of Arid Lands Management.  His passions, career, and daring demeanor serve as a guidestar for the museum.

Check out the Museum Website for more information and current events!

We welcome you to support us as we uphold these values, striving to create a vibrant modern museum rooted in education, preservation, and professionalism.