Warm Springs Museum with Salmon Lunch

Trip Report

Warm Springs Museum Field Trip July 26, 2025
by Paul Claeyssens

Ready to go into the museum!

Salmon lunch - yum!

Salmon Queen!

Over twenty ASCO members joined our field trip and salmon wrap lunch at the Museum at Warm Springs on Saturday, July 26th. Whether this was a first visit or one of many, it was a memorable and inspiring experience and time spent together. The museum showcases the history and culture of the three tribes that comprise the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs: Wasco, Tenino, and Paiute. Now 32 years old, the museum is partially based on stories and artifacts donated by tribal members over the years. It was officially dedicated and opened on March 13, 1993, after more than two decades of planning and fundraising. Recently, the museum received a $1.5 million grant from the state to update its permanent exhibits and to launch the museum’s capital campaign aimed at modernization through Oregon’s Cultural Resources Economic Fund (CREF).

Our ASCO field trip started under clear morning skies, with a sense of anticipation as we gathered at the museum entrance. Initially, museum staff provided us with a brief introduction and cultural insights that helped set the tone for our visit. The exhibits revealed stories both ancient and recent, sparking lively conversations and genuine curiosity among all participants. As we explored the galleries, we admired artifacts and displays that illustrated the tribes’ diverse cultures, languages, and histories.

At midday, our group gathered in the shaded picnic area for a catered lunch featuring fresh-caught salmon wraps, along with other items, provided by Brigette McConville, Tribal Council member, anthropologist, and owner of the tribal business Salmon King. Her delicious lunch and thoughtful cultural sharing truly enhanced our day. Her store, Salmon King, located just across the street from the museum next to the Indian Head Casino, is worth a visit.

Exploring the museum together was a genuine pleasure and deepened our appreciation for the Warm Springs tribes; it was wonderful to share this experience as a group.