History Colorado - Ute Indian Museum

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Nestled in the heart of traditional Ute territory, the museum was originally built in 1956 near the ranch of Uncompahgre leader Chief Ouray and his wife Chipeta. The museum and grounds are recognized as a State Historical Monument and are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.  The grounds include Chief Ouray memorial park, the grave where Chipeta was buried after her death on reservation lands in Utah in 1924, and a native plants garden. The complex also includes shady picnic areas, walking paths, a memorial to the Spanish conquistadors who traveled through the area in 1776 and a link to the citywide trail system. The new building will showcase an expanded gift shop offering authentic Native American jewelry, pottery, children's gifts and books and new community spaces for events and programs. 

Show your community spirit and pride, honor the area’s history, leave a family legacy and support arts and culture in the Montrose area with a donation to support the Ute Indian Museum. Click here to learn more about how you can support the Ute Indian Museum expansion and receive permanent recognition at the museum.