Bacone College is a private, liberal arts college located in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Established in 1880, the college has a rich history of providing higher education to Native American students. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Bacone College that you may not have known before.
The History of Bacone College
Bacone College was founded in 1880 by Almon C. Bacone, a Baptist missionary. Initially established as the Indian University, the school was created to provide education to Native American students who were not able to attend traditional colleges and universities due to discrimination.
Over time, the school evolved into a liberal arts college that focused on providing students with a broad-based education that would prepare them for success in a variety of fields. Today, Bacone College is one of the few colleges in the United States that is designated as a Historically Native American Serving Non-Tribal Institution.
The Native American Cultural Center at Bacone College
The Native American Cultural Center at Bacone College is one of the college’s most notable institutions. The center is dedicated to preserving and promoting Native American culture and heritage, and it serves as a hub for Native American students and the community.
The center features a museum that showcases the history and culture of Native American tribes, as well as a gift shop that sells Native American arts and crafts. The center also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including powwows, traditional dances, and cultural workshops.
In addition to its cultural programs, the Native American Cultural Center also provides support and resources for Native American students at Bacone College. This includes tutoring, mentorship, and cultural programming that is designed to help students connect with their heritage and succeed academically.
The Athletic Programs at Bacone College
Bacone College is home to a range of athletic programs that are designed to promote physical fitness and healthy competition among students. The college is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and it fields teams in several sports, including basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, and cross-country.
One of the unique aspects of the athletic programs at Bacone College is the emphasis on Native American culture and tradition. The college’s mascot is the Warrior, and the athletic teams often incorporate Native American themes and symbols into their uniforms and logos.
In addition to its intercollegiate sports programs, Bacone College also offers a range of intramural sports and fitness programs. These programs are designed to promote physical fitness and healthy lifestyles among students, and they provide opportunities for students to get involved in sports and fitness activities outside of the classroom.
The Bacone College Museum and Archive
The Bacone College Museum and Archive is a hidden gem on the college’s campus. The museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and culture of Bacone College and Native American tribes in the region.
The museum features a range of exhibits that showcase the college’s history, including photographs, artifacts, and documents. The archive contains a wealth of historical materials that are available for research and study, including rare books, manuscripts, and photographs.
In addition to its exhibits and archive, the Bacone College Museum also hosts a range of events and programs throughout the year. These events include lectures, workshops, and cultural activities that are designed to promote education and understanding of Native American history and culture.
In conclusion, Bacone College is a unique and dynamic institution that is dedicated to preserving and promoting Native American culture and heritage. With its rich history, diverse student body, and commitment to excellence, Bacone College is truly one of the gems of the Southwest. Whether you are a prospective student or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating institution, Bacone College is definitely worth exploring.