Turquoise Trail
The Museum of Archaeology & Material Culture, NM

The Museum of Archaeology and Material Culture was conceived in 1986 when the present director and founder, Bradley F. Bowman, became aware that many important issues dealing with our past weren't being addressed by museums in a way in which the general public could benefit. The past belongs to everyone and an understanding of the past has benefits that, used as a guide in decision-making, could result in a better future for everyone. The museum became a reality in 1995 when the collections found a home in Cedar Crest, New Mexico, on the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway.

The museum's permanent exhibits deal with archaeology and history. A 12,000-year-plus Native American timeline is presented from a synthesized scientific and Native American point of view. A grant from the Federal Department of Transportation made possible a computer-enhanced exhibit housed at the museum, which explores science conducted at Sandia Cave and turquoise mining in the local area. Other exhibits deal with scientific methodologies employed in archaeology. The museum offers educational field schools to groups of any age and is active in New Mexico cultural resource preservation and archaeological research.