Interpreting American Indian Cultural Heritage: Visitor's Educational Experience at Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Sit

The following research and analysis explore the various methods in which American Indian heritage is interpreted at Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site in Colorado Springs, CO. Attention was given to the distinctive ways this space acts as an educational institution that displays and interprets Colorado's cultural heritage through object-centered learning and participatory education. The goal for this research was to discuss ahistorical biases that have existed in museums for centuries, while encouraging dialogue and discourse about the appropriate methods for interpreting American Indian cultural heritage. Through the presentation and examination of visitors' educational experiences using observations, questionnaires, and informal interviews with visitors and interpreters, I will discuss if and how the interpretational techniques at RLR influence visitor's educational experience, further the discourse of American Indian cultural heritage, and broaden the perspectives and knowledge of its visitors regarding American Indian cultural heritage.