Bison Museum

Scottsdale, Arizona

It might seem bizarre to devote an entire museum to the American Bison, but this noble animal (also -- but inaccurately -- called the buffalo) has played a important part in the history of our country. I was surprised to see how many different bison products have been produced -- on display are large collections of bison belt buckles, bison postage stamps, bison commemorative spoons ... and of course the buffalo nickel. The museum also has many genuinely artistic paintings and bronzes presented in a first-class facility. But, of course, I sought out the oddest corners of the museum ...

On the wall in the background is what is claimed to be the world's largest bison hide.
Prop dead bison (made of foam rubber) used in filming of movie "Dances With Wolves."
Display of bison products -- including "Buffalo Chips" and a can of "Real Wyoming Fresh Air."
Buffalo Bill, one of many wooden figures in the museum hand-carved by Dee Flagg. The rifle in the background was once owned by Buffalo Bill (Col. Wm. F. Cody) himself.
Life-size head and hands carved by Dee Flagg for another figure called "Sheriff."
A wing of the museum is devoted to Flagg Family Art Collection. Here we see a somewhat-creepy series of paintings of sad-eyed children by Monte Flagg.

Directions: 16641 North 91st Street (south of Bell Road). An admission fee is charged.

Last visited: June 2008. Update: According to news reports, the Bison Museum closed in the summer of 2009.

Standard disclaimer: Sites are described for entertainment purposes only, as they were at the time of my last visit. I can not vouch for the current condition of the site or its accessibility.