Bison in History

Explore the story of the North American bison across time, space, and cultures up to the near extinction of the species. Learn about the relationship between bison and humans, and bison and the landscape.

Buffalo Hall of Fame

Since the latter half of the 19th century, conservationists, preservationists, politicians, private ranchers, Native American tribes, and other advocates have contributed to the restoration of the North American bison from near extinction.

The Buffalo Hall of Fame was established by the National Buffalo Foundation (then called the National Buffalo Association) in 1980 to honor those who have made significant contributions to help restore the American bison. It honors both historic and contemporary individuals who have helped to advance bison restoration in North America.

The National Buffalo Foundation continues to administer the Hall of Fame, which is one of the National Buffalo Museum’s foundational exhibits.

Bison in Modern Artwork

As both a majestic animal in its own right and an iconic symbol of the American West, the North American bison continues to be a popular artistic subject. View the newest acquisitions of the museum in our Modern Artwork Exhibit. These original pieces by various modern artists portray the bison through a fresh lens.

Bison in Advertising

The North American bison has been used to advertise everything from cars to backpacks: View examples of and learn more about how the imagery and symbolism of the bison have been used for decades in advertising campaigns.

Indigenous Peoples and Bison

The relationship between bison and Indigenous peoples stretches back thousands of years.
While bison were an important part of life to numerous Indigenous peoples, they were particularly important to the Great Plains tribes, providing food, shelter, clothing, tools, and spiritual significance. Bison continue to hold significance to many Indigenous peoples across North America to this day. This exhibit explores parts of that relationship.

North Dakota Pottery

This exhibit highlights representative examples of bison themed pottery originating in North Dakota. This exhibit spans mid-20th century styles to more contemporary examples of North Dakota pottery, from both large producers and individual ceramic artists.

This exhibit was made possible in large part by members of the North Dakota Pottery Collectors Society (NDPCS).

Can’t make it to us? We can send an exhibit to you!

Traveling Trunk Exhibit